10MHz to 6GHz RMS detector

Linear Technology introduces the LT5581, a broadband 6GHz RMS detector, featuring 40dB dynamic range and a operating supply current of 1.4mA. The device is suited for power monitor and control applications in portable and battery- powered wireless systems, cellular basestations, picocells and femtocells, fiber optic transmitters and instrumentation. The LT5581 outputs a DC voltage that is linearly proportional to the log input power, providing an easy-to-use, mV/dB scaling with exceptional linearity of better than ±1dB across 40dB range. The LT5581’s RMS measurement capability provides accurate RF power readings to within ±0.2dB regardless of waveforms that have high crest-factor modulated content, multi-carrier or multitone.

 Moreover, the LT5581 offers exceptional accuracy of ±1dB over its operating temperature range of -40°C to 85°C. Operating over a supply voltage range of 2.7V to 5.25V, the LT5581’s low power consumption makes it ideal for battery-powered communication and multimedia devices. Yet, it has the accuracy performance to meet the performance required by basestations, picocells and femtocells, cable infrastructure and optical communication systems. Additionally, the LT5581’s wide frequency range extends to applications including WiMAX and wireless systems in the 5GHz ISM bands. The LT5581’s single-ended RF input does not require an external RF transformer, thus simplifying the application design while reducing costs.

 The device also incorporates a shutdown feature. When the LT5581’s Enable input pin is pulled low, the chip draws a typical shutdown current of 0.2uA, and a maximum of 6uA. The device is offered in a tiny 8-lead, 3mm x 2mm DFN surface mount package. Pricing starts at $2.29 each in 1,000-piece quantities. The LT5581 is available immediately from stock.