MACOM MAAL-011151 2–18GHz Ultra-Low Phase Noise Amplifier

MACOM MAAL-011151 2–18GHz Ultra-Low Phase Noise Amplifier

The MACOM MAAL-011151 is a wideband, ultra-low phase noise distributed amplifier designed for microwave signal generation, test and measurement, radar and RF local oscillator (LO) signal chains.

Operating from 2 to 18GHz, the device provides 15dB typical gain, 19dBm output P1dB and 3.5dB noise figure at 10GHz. It uses a low phase noise HBT process, operates from a 5V supply and features internally DC-blocked, 50Ω matched RF input and output ports.

MAAL-011151 Key Specifications

Note: RF performance values are measured under defined manufacturer test conditions. Gain, noise figure, output power and phase noise vary with frequency, temperature and bias configuration.

Ultra-Low Phase Noise Performance

The MAAL-011151 is designed for RF signal generation applications where amplifier-added phase noise must be minimized.

At a 12GHz RF input frequency and +3dBm input power, MACOM specifies typical phase noise values of −149dBc/Hz at 1kHz offset, −158dBc/Hz at 10kHz offset and −165dBc/Hz at 100kHz offset.

These values are measured at different frequency offsets and should not be interpreted as a single broadband phase noise specification.

For LO distribution and signal generator applications, engineers should verify the source phase noise, amplifier-added noise, output power and downstream mixer drive requirements.

5V Bias and Amplifier Control

The MAAL-011151 operates from a nominal 5V positive supply with approximately 60mA typical quiescent current.

According to the MACOM reference circuit:

• Pin 2 (VCC): Apply the 5V collector supply.

• Pin 14 (VB3): Apply the specified 5V bias.

• Pin 15 (VB2) and Pin 18 (VB1): Connect through the recommended control resistors.

• VCT = 5V: Amplifier enabled.

• VCT = 0V: Amplifier disabled.

The reference circuit uses 1.56kΩ and 3.2kΩ control resistors, together with RF bypass and supply decoupling capacitors.

Low-noise DC power supplies are important. Supply noise may degrade the amplifier's phase noise performance, particularly in sensitive signal generation systems.

RF Signal Chain and PCB Design

The MAAL-011151 provides internally matched 50Ω RF input and output ports with integrated DC blocking, simplifying integration into microwave circuits.

For reliable RF performance, engineers should check:

• Gain and output power: Verify the required LO or signal-source drive level at the operating frequency.

• Phase noise: Evaluate additive phase noise at the relevant frequency offsets.

• Input power: Observe the specified maximum input power and compression limits.

• Power supply: Use low-noise bias circuitry and appropriate supply decoupling.

• PCB grounding: Connect the exposed package pad to RF, DC and thermal ground.

• Thermal limits: Confirm device temperature and power dissipation for the intended operating conditions.

MACOM provides S-parameter data and a reference application schematic for circuit simulation and PCB design.

Typical Applications

• Microwave signal generators

• Low phase noise LO amplification

• RF test and measurement equipment

• Radar signal generation systems

• Electronic warfare and ECM equipment

• Wideband microwave signal chains

Ordering and Product Information

The MAAL-011151-DIE is a separate bare-die version with different mechanical and RF characteristics. It should not be treated as the same ordering configuration.

Buyers should confirm the complete manufacturer part number, packaging, requested quantity, available inventory and lead time before ordering.

Datasheet and Manufacturer Resources

• MACOM MAAL-011151 Official Product Page

• MAAL-011151 Datasheet Rev. V2 (PDF)

• MAAL-011151-DIE Bare-Die Version

MAAL-011151 Pricing and Availability

Looking for MACOM MAAL-011151 pricing, stock availability, lead time or technical documentation?

Contact DataStorageIC with your required part number, quantity, operating frequency, output power requirements and delivery destination. Our team can assist with sourcing, specification verification and quotation requests.