QPA2610 vs QPA2611 vs QPA2612 X-Band GaN Amplifiers
QPA2610 vs QPA2611 vs QPA2612: 2W, 5W and 12W X-Band GaN Amplifiers
The Qorvo QPA2610, QPA2611 and QPA2612 are compact X-band GaN-on-SiC power amplifiers designed for radar, communication and SATCOM systems.
All three devices use Qorvo’s 0.15µm QGaN15 process and a 5 × 5mm overmold QFN package. They are pin-compatible, but differ significantly in frequency coverage, output power, efficiency and bias requirements.
QPA2610, QPA2611 and QPA2612 Comparison
| Parameter | QPA2610 | QPA2611 | QPA2612 |
| Frequency Range | 8.5–10.5GHz | 8–12GHz | 8–12GHz |
| Saturated Output Power | >2W | >5W | >12W |
| Large-Signal Gain | 23dB | 26dB | 23dB |
| Power-Added Efficiency | >47% | >42% | >40% |
| Recommended Drain Voltage | 20V | 24V | 24V |
| Quiescent Drain Current | 56mA | 105mA | 250mA |
| Package | 5 × 5mm OVM QFN | 5 × 5mm OVM QFN | 5 × 5mm OVM QFN |
Which X-Band Amplifier Should You Choose?
QPA2610: Best for Lower-Power, High-Efficiency Designs
The QPA2610 provides more than 2W output power and the highest published PAE in the family at over 47%.
It is suitable for lower-power radar channels, compact transmitter modules and systems where power consumption and thermal load are important. Its 8.5–10.5GHz range is narrower than that of the other two models.
QPA2611: Balanced Power and Full X-Band Coverage
The QPA2611 covers the full 8–12GHz X-band and provides more than 5W output power. Its 26dB large-signal gain is higher than the published value for the QPA2610 and QPA2612.
It is the balanced choice for systems that need full X-band coverage without the power consumption and thermal requirements of a 12W amplifier.
QPA2612: Best for Higher-Power Transmitters
The QPA2612 delivers more than 12W output power across 8–12GHz. It is intended for higher-power radar, SATCOM and communication transmitter stages.
Its higher quiescent current and RF output require a more capable power supply and thermal path than the QPA2610 or QPA2611.
Typical Applications
The QPA2610, QPA2611 and QPA2612 are suitable for:
X-band radar transmitters
AESA and phased-array radar
Commercial and military radar
Satellite communication equipment
Defense communication systems
Microwave communication links
Compact multichannel RF modules
Qorvo identifies radar, communications and SATCOM as the primary applications for all three amplifiers. Their compact package also supports the close element spacing required in phased-array designs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which model has the highest efficiency?
The QPA2610 has the highest published PAE at over 47%, compared with over 42% for the QPA2611 and over 40% for the QPA2612.
Which models cover the full 8–12GHz X-band?
The QPA2611 and QPA2612 both cover 8–12GHz. The QPA2610 operates over the narrower 8.5–10.5GHz range.
Are QPA2610, QPA2611 and QPA2612 pin-compatible?
Yes. Qorvo identifies them as a pin-compatible amplifier family using the same 5 × 5mm package. Bias, current and thermal requirements still differ.
Which amplifier is best for phased-array radar?
All three can support phased-array radar. The QPA2610 suits lower-power channels, the QPA2611 provides a balanced 5W option, and the QPA2612 is intended for higher-power transmit elements.
Can the models be replaced without changing the PCB?
The common package and pinout may simplify substitution, but the power supply, bias circuit, RF drive and thermal design must be reviewed before changing devices.
Conclusion
Choose the QPA2610 when efficiency and lower thermal load are priorities, the QPA2611 when full X-band coverage and moderate output power are required, and the QPA2612 for higher-power 12W-class transmitter stages.
DataStorageIC supplies Qorvo X-band GaN amplifiers for prototype and production requirements. Submit the required model, quantity, destination country and target delivery date to check current stock, price and lead time.
