REP019: Dual-band front-end CDMA IC tuned to a single 110MHz IF

Rapid engineering prototypes are actual circuits that Maxim application engineers build in the lab and conduct product testing. They are the starting point for new RF engineering designs. They are not intended as assessment testing tools.

Objective: To develop a test method to compare the minor improvements of this revised CDMA dual-band triple-mode front-end IC.

Maxim continues to improve the performance of certain ICs to meet special customer requirements. MAX2323 is a new version of MAX2320 . The goal of this design is to demonstrate the minor improvements of this revision compared to its predecessor and to demonstrate the correct setup for evaluating the LNA and mixer. All in all, we'll notice very small improvements and at least be sure that the revised version is as good as its predecessor.

The MAX2323 low-noise amplifier (LNA) and mixer is designed for dual-band CDMA cellular handsets, but it can also be used in dual-band TDMA, GSM, EDGE, or WCDMA applications. The difference from its previous generation (MAX2320) is that this cellular band LNA adds a third "medium gain" state to improve switching hysteresis margin. It also uses a smaller package (28-QFN) and provides a higher third-order input intercept point.

Schematic of the MAX2323 evaluation kit (PDF, 51kB)
Bill of materials, part 1
Bill of materials, part 2
Cellular LNA/mixer IIP3 measurement test setup
Cellular LNA/mixer noise-figure measurement test setup
PCS LNA/mixer IIP3 measurement test setup
PCS LNA/mixer noise-figure measurement test setup