QPA2597 2–6GHz GaN MMIC Power Amplifier
Qorvo QPA2597 Wideband GaN Amplifier
The QPA2597 from Qorvo is a packaged wideband GaN MMIC driver amplifier operating from 2 to 6GHz. It delivers 32dBm output power, approximately 1.6W, together with 24dB small-signal gain and 37% power-added efficiency.
Using proven GaN-on-SiC technology, the QPA2597 provides a compact driver solution for commercial and military radar, electronic warfare and broadband communication systems. It can drive a higher-power GaN amplifier or operate as the final output stage in lower-power RF architectures.
QPA2597 Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
| Mfr. Part # | QPA2597 |
| Manufacturer | Qorvo |
| Product Type | Wideband GaN MMIC Driver/Power Amplifier |
| Frequency Range | 2–6GHz |
| Output Power | 32dBm |
| Output Power in Watts | Approximately 1.6W |
| Small-Signal Gain | 24dB |
| Power-Added Efficiency | 37% |
| IMD3 | −23dBc |
| Drain Voltage | 25V |
| Quiescent Drain Current | 50mA |
| RF Impedance | 50Ω |
| Semiconductor Technology | GaN-on-SiC |
| Package/Case | Plastic Overmold QFN |
| Package Dimensions | 4.0 × 4.0 × 0.85mm |
Typical Applications
The QPA2597 is suitable for:
Commercial radar systems
Military radar systems
Electronic warfare equipment
Broadband RF communications
Defense communication systems
S-band and C-band transmitters
GaN HPA driver stages
Multiband RF front ends
Test and measurement equipment
Lower-power RF output stages
Qorvo identifies commercial and military radar, communications and electronic warfare as the principal applications for the QPA2597.
QPA2597 as a TGA2597-SM Replacement
The discontinued TGA2597-SM also covered 2–6GHz and provided 32dBm output power in a 4 × 4mm QFN package. Qorvo’s online store lists the QPA2597 as a suggested replacement for the TGA2597-SM.
However, engineers should not assume that the devices are automatically interchangeable. Bias current, efficiency, RF performance and application-circuit requirements should be compared before making a replacement decision.
Key improvements offered by the QPA2597 include:
Power-added efficiency increased from approximately 31% to 37%
Updated 50mA nominal quiescent current
Current production status
Continued availability of evaluation and design resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the QPA2597?
The QPA2597 is a packaged 2–6GHz GaN-on-SiC MMIC driver amplifier manufactured by Qorvo.
What is the output power of the QPA2597?
The QPA2597 provides 32dBm output power, equivalent to approximately 1.6W.
What gain does the QPA2597 provide?
The amplifier provides approximately 24dB small-signal gain across its operating frequency range.
What is the efficiency of the QPA2597?
The QPA2597 provides approximately 37% power-added efficiency under Qorvo’s published test conditions.
Is the QPA2597 a driver amplifier or power amplifier?
Qorvo categorizes it as a driver amplifier below 3W. It can drive a higher-power GaN HPA or serve as the output power amplifier in lower-power system architectures.
What voltage does the QPA2597 require?
The published nominal operating condition uses a 25V drain supply and approximately 50mA quiescent drain current.
What is the QPA2597 package?
The device is supplied in a 4.0 × 4.0 × 0.85mm plastic overmold QFN package.
Is the QPA2597 internally matched?
Yes. The RF input and output are internally matched to 50Ω, and both RF ports include integrated DC-blocking capacitors.
Can the QPA2597 replace the TGA2597-SM?
Qorvo lists the QPA2597 as a suggested replacement for the discontinued TGA2597-SM. Designers must still verify bias, PCB layout, RF performance and thermal compatibility.
Is a QPA2597 evaluation board available?
Yes. The QPA2597EVB evaluation board is available for laboratory testing and prototype development.
How can I request a QPA2597 quotation?
Provide the required quantity, destination country, target delivery date and application information. DataStorageIC will check the latest price, availability and lead time.
