This Product Selection Guide contains information to help select products in the RF Amplifier category on DigiKey.com
RF Amplifiers are used for signal gain and buffering purposes in radio frequency applications. They differ from general purpose op amps in that they are typically suitable for use at much higher frequencies and are more inclined to provide a fixed, non-adjustable amount of gain along with input or output impedances of values that match commonly used transmission line characteristic impedance values.
SelectionCharacteristics
Specifications to determine which RF Amplifier may be right for your application.
Frequency: An RF amplifier will be chosen largely based upon the frequencies it is intended to work with. While some have a wide range (bandwidth) that does come with a cost in terms of power usage, noise, and range when compared to those with a smaller range.
P1dB: 1 dB compression point; the power level at which a device’s gain or transfer function is reduced by 1 dB relative to its small-signal value.
Gain: Describes the amount of signal power gain provided by a device.
Noise Figure: It characterizes SNR degradation caused by a component, given as the ratio (expressed in dB) between actual output noise power and portion thereof that is caused by the thermal noise of the input termination resistance at a standard temperature.
RF Type: The frequncy, interface, or protocol for which the device was designed for use. Typically these standards are set by a third party.
Voltage Supply: Typically represented by a range, this indicates the low and high voltage limits which one can expect standard operation. Voltages outside this range may damage the device and other system components.
Current-Supply: Typically this represents the maximum current to which a device will meet its given specifications. Exceeding this current may damage the device and/or other system components.
Test Frequency: Indicates a frequency or range thereof at which one or more other device parameters is specified or characterized.
Mounting Type: Indicates how the device is attached.
Package/Case: Indicates the type of protective case used on an electronic component to allow easy handling, installation, and protection. This selection was determined to be the closest industry standard applicable to the suppliers device packaging. Typically it is best to check the actual dimensions from the datasheet rather than depend on this terminology when designing your circuit.
Supplier Device Package: This is what the manufacturer calls the package of this device. They are manufacturer specific. It is typically best to use the actual dimensions from the datasheets rather than to go by this terminology when designing your circuit.
ProductExamples
| DigiKey Part Number | 3157-MAR-8ASM+TR-ND | |
| Manufacturer | Mini-Circuits | |
| Manufacturer Product Number | MAR-8ASM+ | |
| Description | IC RF AMP CELLULAR 0HZ-1GHZ 4SMD | |
| Data Sheet: | Click Here |
| DigiKey Part Number | 1465-1002-ND | |
| Manufacturer | MACOM Technology Solutions | |
| Manufacturer Product Number | AM-147-PIN | |
| Description | IC RF AMP GP 3MHZ-500MHZ TO8 | |
| Data Sheet | Click Here |
| DigiKey Part Number | CMPA1D1E025F-ND | |
| Manufacturer | Wolfspeed, Inc. | |
| Manufacturer Product Number | CMPA1D1E025F | |
| Description | IC AMP 13.75GHZ-14.5GHZ 440208 | |
| Datasheet | Click Here |
Schematic Symbol
Schematic symbol courtesy of Scheme-It please see their website for more information and symbols.
MediaLinks
Videos
MACOM Broadband Darlington Amplifier DC-15 GHz
Infineon - Low Noise Amplifiers
Articles
Wireless Local Loop 1
Product Training Modules
RF Amps Improve Gain w/ Matching - Analog Devices
RF-IF Amplifier Product - ADI
Low Noise - General Purpose Amplifiers - Skyworks 1
TechForum
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