Fujitsu Microelectronics has introduced a SAW-less transceiver that supports 3GPP LTE/WCDMA/EGPRS wireless phones.

The Fujitsu MB86L10A transceiver eliminates 3G and LTE TX and RX interstage SAW filters and low-noise amplifiers (LNAs). The single-chip transceiver features backward compatibility with a high-level programming model (API) for radio control using DigRF/MIPI D3G and D4G open standard digital interfaces. This makes the new MB86L10A compatible with a wide range of industry basebands.

The compact module enables cell phone manufacturers to reduce component count, board space and total bill of materials. Its simplified programming model significantly reduces development time and simplifies integration of the RF in a radio platform. The transceiver, which is optimized for compressed mode operation, features quad-band GSM/EDGE and up to five WCDMA or LTE bands in a single-phone configuration.

"The Fujitsu MB86L10A LTE multimode transceiver is the first of its kind to eliminate LNAs and 3G/4G TX and RX SAWs, reducing board area, component count and cost," said Vivek Bhan, senior director of RF Engineering and Product Development for Fujitsu Microelectronics America. "This LTE multimode RF transceiver supports most global band configurations and standard interfaces, and its simple RF API programming reduces radio integration time. The result is smaller radios with optimal time to market for handset manufacturers worldwide."

MB86L10A Now in Pre-Production Field Trials

"It's fantastic to receive direct feedback from leading LTE carriers," said Bhan. "The early feedback on an advanced new standard will help develop a stable product faster, speeding time to market."

The MB86L10A transceiver is in pre-production phase and is supporting field trials at a major carrier. The field trial is exercising the new device in 2G, 3G and 4G modes across multiple bands and both DigRF interfaces.