RFMD Introduces GSM/GPRS PA Module for Dual-Band Handsets

RF Micro Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ: RFMD), a global leader in the design and manufacture of high-performance radio systems and solutions for applications that drive mobile communications, today announced the introduction of the RF3198 dual-band power amplifier (PA) module. The RF3198 PowerStar™ PA module provides ease of implementation and optimized performance to manufacturers of dual-band handsets for the growing entry level and replacement markets.

"We expect the RF3198 PowerStar PA module to provide the lowest functional cost of ownership for handset models focused on the entry level and replacement handset markets," said Konrad Alvarino, general manager of RFMD's components business unit. "RFMD's ability to provide robust field-proven solutions and the lowest cost of ownership to the world's largest handset manufacturers has made RFMD the leading supplier of power amplifiers in the entry level and replacement handset markets.

The RF3198 extends RFMD's industry-leading portfolio of power amplifiers and represents the latest generation of RFMD's PowerStar family of PAs, which are the world's best selling PAs with integrated power control. The introduction of the RF3198 supplements recently introduced PA products announced at 3GSM World Congress that target the major growth areas in the cellular handset market, including entry level and replacement handsets, GSM/EDGE handsets and 3G multimode handsets. The cellular handset market is the world's largest consumer electronics market, with approximately one billion units sold in 2006.

The improved isolation, harmonic performance and cross-band coupling of the RF3198 reduce RF complexity and increase design flexibility related to antenna and switch selection. Additionally, these improvements simplify calibration and increase manufacturing yields, thereby accelerating time to market and reducing total cost of ownership. The RF3198 is pin-for-pin compatible with RFMD's RF3146 family of PowerStar PA modules, which are field-proven and are the Company's highest volume standard products for the entry level and replacement handset markets.

The RF3198 is packaged in a low cost 7x7x0.9 mm package and complies fully with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS). The RF3198 is currently available for $0.98 in quantities of one million pieces.