RFMD Introduces Components for 3G Multimode Handsets

RF Micro Devices has introduced a portfolio of complementary cellular components designed to address the increasing complexity of cellular front-ends in multimode 3G handsets. The portfolio of components, which initially includes cellular switches, DC to DC converters and low noise amplifiers (LNAs), increases RFMD's opportunity in handsets beyond transceivers and power amplifier-based front-end solutions.

The total addressable market for complementary cellular components in 3G multimode handsets (including standalone switches, DC to DC converters, LNAs, duplexers and other non-PA based components) is expected to exceed US$1 billion in 2010.

Industry research firm Gartner Dataquest forecasts the 3G multimode market will exceed 600 million handsets by 2010, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of over 45%. A 3G multimode device includes a GPRS/EDGE path and at least one UMTS path, both of which require PA-based front-end solutions and associated complementary components. As 3G multimode devices proliferate and as the number of bands increases to support multiple regions, the market for front-end solutions and complementary components in 3G multimode handsets is expected to significantly outpace the rate of growth of cellular handsets."

Posted to the site on 8th February 2007