Microchip Technology ATR0981-TRHY
- Part No.:
- ATR0981-TRHY
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- RF Front End (LNA + PA)
- Package:
- 20-LSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
ATR0981-TRHY.pdf
- Description:
- IC FRONT-END UHF 500MHZ 20SSO
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
ATR0981-TRHY from Atmel is a monolithic SiGe front-end IC integrating a low-noise amplifier (LNA) and power amplifier (PA) for 300–500 MHz UHF applications. It delivers 29 dBm saturated output power, 55% typical power-added efficiency, and 1.5 dB noise figure. Its dual-stage architecture supports transceiver functions in wireless metering and industrial telemetry systems.
For engineers reviewing the ATR0981-TRHY datasheet, ATR0981-TRHY pinout, ATR0981-TRHY application, or ATR0981-TRHY equivalent, key selection criteria include its 30 dB PA gain, ±3 dB output power control range, 2.5 V LNA supply, 3.6 V PA supply, and PSSO20 thermal-enhanced package with down-set paddle.
Technical Context
The ATR0981-TRHY implements a fully integrated transmit/receive front-end using Atmel's SiGe process. Its LNA operates at 2.5 V with 2.5 mA current and achieves 19 dB gain and 1.5 dB NF; the PA operates at 3.6 V with 400–550 mA current, delivering 34 dB gain and 29 dBm Psat at 466 MHz.
Control is implemented via analog voltage on POUT_CONTROL (pin 17), enabling ±3 dB linear output power adjustment from 0.7 V to 2.5 V. The device features unconditional PA stability up to 10:1 load mismatch and includes dedicated ground pins (GND1–GND6) and multiple V3_PA_OUT terminals for RF matching and bias decoupling.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 300–500 MHz - covers ISM band UHF applications including 433 MHz and 460 MHz systems |
| Saturated Output Power | 29 dBm (typ.) - enables +30 dBm EIRP after antenna gain in compact transmitters |
| Power-Added Efficiency | 55% (typ. at 466 MHz) - reduces thermal load and extends battery life in portable devices |
| Noise Figure | 1.5 dB (typ.) - preserves SNR in weak-signal RX paths such as remote sensor receivers |
| LNA Supply Current | 2.5 mA (typ.) - allows ultra-low-power receive mode operation |
| PA Supply Current | 400–550 mA (at 3.6 V) - defines minimum DC rail capability and heatsink requirements |
| Output Power Control Range | ±3 dB - supports closed-loop TX power regulation without external DAC or MCU intervention |
| Thermal Resistance | 19 K/W - requires thermal pad soldering to PCB copper for sustained CW operation |
Pinout & Package
Packaged in PSSO20 plastic package with down-set paddle for enhanced thermal dissipation. Exposed paddle must be soldered to PCB ground plane per manufacturer layout guidelines.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| V3_PA_OUT (pins 1, 2, 3) | PA output matching network node | Three parallel terminals for low-inductance RF output connection and supply decoupling |
| GND1–GND6 (pins 4, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20) | Dedicated ground reference | Nine ground pins minimize impedance across RF and DC paths; critical for isolation and stability |
| LNA_IN (pin 8) | LNA RF input | 50 Ω matched input for direct connection to antenna or filter without external matching |
| BIAS_LNA (pin 10) | LNA bias current setting | Resistor-to-VS connection sets 2.5 mA LNA quiescent current; determines gain and NF trade-off |
| VS_CTRL (pin 11) | PA control supply | Provides regulated 3.6 V to internal PA control circuitry; separate from main PA supply |
| LNA_OUT (pin 13) | LNA output / LNA supply node | DC supply (2.5 V) and AC-coupled RF output; requires external DC blocking capacitor |
| PA_IN (pin 15) | PA RF input | 50 Ω matched input accepting LNA output; minimal external components required |
| POUT_CONTROL (pin 17) | Analog output power control | 0.7–2.5 V input adjusts PA output linearly over ±3 dB; enables AGC implementation |
| V2_PA (pin 19) | PA main supply | Primary 3.6 V DC input for PA stage; high-current path requiring low-ESR bulk capacitance |
| NC (pin 6) | No connection | Unbonded die pad; must remain unconnected on PCB |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated LNA + PA front-end | Reduces BOM count by eliminating discrete amplifiers and interstage matching networks |
| 30 dB PA small-signal gain | Enables >20 dB system gain margin before antenna; simplifies link budget planning |
| 19 dB LNA small-signal gain | Provides sufficient RX sensitivity boost while maintaining IIP3 > –10 dBm |
| 20 dB RX-to-TX isolation | Minimizes self-interference in TDD systems; eliminates need for external circulator or switch |
| Shut-down mode (≤0.1 V control) | Reduces PA quiescent current to 10–20 µA - suitable for duty-cycled sensor nodes |
| ESD protection (2 kV HBM on control pins) | Supports automated assembly and field-replaceable module handling without special ESD protocols |
Applications
| Smart Utility Metering | Industrial Telemetry Transceivers |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Bidirectional AMR/AMI communication between water/gas meters and concentrators in sub-GHz ISM bands. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Front-end transceiver IC handling both LNA receive path and PA transmit path in half-duplex operation. Use Value: 1.5 dB NF ensures reliable reception of weak signals from distant meters; 29 dBm output meets EN 300 220 ERP limits with compact antennas. | Use Scenario: Remote monitoring of tank levels, pressure, and valve status in oil & gas facilities using licensed or ISM-band radios. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Integrated RF front-end enabling compact, ruggedized transmitter modules with minimal external components. Use Value: 55% PAE reduces heat generation in sealed enclosures; ±3 dB analog power control supports adaptive transmission based on RSSI feedback. |
| UHF RFID Reader Front-End | Wireless Sensor Network Gateways |
Use Scenario: Portable or fixed UHF RFID readers operating at 433 MHz or 460 MHz for asset tracking in warehouses and logistics hubs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Transmit power amplifier and receive low-noise amplifier in reader RF chain, replacing discrete GaAs solutions. Use Value: 34 dB PA gain and 30 dB LNA gain provide full-link margin; PSSO20 package supports reflow-compatible high-volume manufacturing. | Use Scenario: Gateway nodes aggregating data from hundreds of low-power sensors in smart agriculture or building automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-function RF front-end supporting scheduled TX bursts and always-on RX listening windows. Use Value: 2.5 mA LNA current enables low-duty-cycle wake-up RX; shut-down mode (<20 µA) extends gateway battery life during idle periods. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar UHF front-end amplifier applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| RFMD RF5110 | Single-path PA-only (no integrated LNA); 28 dBm Pout; requires external LNA and matching | Higher design complexity due to discrete LNA integration and interstage matching | Choose when higher PA output (>30 dBm) is needed and board space permits separate LNA placement |
| Qorvo QM11025 | Integrated LNA+PA; 31 dBm Pout; 2.4–2.5 GHz only; incompatible frequency range | Not usable in 300–500 MHz systems without external up/down-conversion | Choose only for 2.4 GHz ISM applications; not a functional substitute for ATR0981-TRHY's UHF band |
Compared with RFMD RF5110 and Qorvo QM11025, the ATR0981-TRHY uniquely combines LNA and PA in a single 300–500 MHz optimized die, delivering balanced RX sensitivity and TX output within one thermally managed PSSO20 package - reducing component count, layout risk, and qualification effort for sub-GHz industrial radio designs.
Availability
ATR0981-TRHY is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart utility metering, industrial telemetry transceivers, and UHF RFID reader front-ends requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.
Supply support for ATR0981-TRHY includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Atmel Corporation (now part of Microchip Technology) is a semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, nonvolatile memory, and RF/analog front-end ICs for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.
The ATR0981-TRHY belongs to Atmel's UHF RF front-end product line, designed specifically for robust, low-component-count transceiver implementations in 300–500 MHz license-free and narrowband industrial radio systems.
FAQ
What is the recommended PCB layout practice for the exposed paddle of ATR0981-TRHY?
The PSSO20 package of ATR0981-TRHY features a down-set paddle that must be soldered to a solid copper thermal pad on the PCB. Use ≥9 thermal vias (0.3 mm diameter) connecting the paddle to inner-layer ground planes. Avoid splitting the thermal pad - maintain uninterrupted copper under the entire paddle footprint per Atmel's layout guide AN2142.
Does ATR0981-TRHY support true half-duplex operation without external switching?
No. While ATR0981-TRHY integrates both LNA and PA, it does not include internal T/R switching. External PIN diode or GaAs switch (e.g., Skyworks SKY13370) is required to isolate RX and TX paths. The 20 dB RX-to-TX isolation helps but is insufficient for simultaneous operation.
What is the maximum allowable duty cycle for continuous-wave operation of ATR0981-TRHY?
ATR0981-TRHY is rated for 100% duty cycle CW operation under specified thermal conditions: ambient ≤ +60°C, RthJA = 19 K/W, and proper paddle soldering. At 3.6 V and 550 mA, junction temperature remains below 150°C if PCB thermal design meets Atmel's recommended copper area and via count.
Can the POUT_CONTROL pin of ATR0981-TRHY be driven directly from a microcontroller GPIO?
Yes - the POUT_CONTROL pin (pin 17) accepts 0.7–2.5 V analog voltage with ≤400 µA input current. A standard 3.3 V MCU GPIO configured as analog output (with optional resistor divider) can drive it directly. Ensure source impedance < 1 kΩ to avoid control voltage droop under dynamic load.
Is ATR0981-TRHY qualified for automotive applications?
No. Per Atmel's official disclaimer in the datasheet, ATR0981-TRHY is not intended, authorized, or warranted for use in automotive applications. It is specified for industrial and commercial environments with ambient operating range of –30°C to +60°C, not the extended –40°C to +125°C automotive grade.
ATR0981-TRHY Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- RF Type:
- UHF
- Frequency:
- 300MHz ~ 500MHz
- Features:
- Low-noise Pre-amplifier
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 20-SSO
ATR0981-TRHY FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ATR0981-TRHY through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ATR0981-TRHY on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for ATR0981-TRHY reliable?
The price and inventory of ATR0981-TRHY are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ATR0981-TRHY is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ATR0981-TRHY?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ATR0981-TRHY transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ATR0981-TRHY?
ATR0981-TRHY orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ATR0981-TRHY order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for ATR0981-TRHY?
For technical support, including ATR0981-TRHY datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ATR0981-TRHY requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ATR0981-TRHY is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ATR0981-TRHY products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that ATR0981-TRHY meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ATR0981-TRHY?
All ATR0981-TRHY units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ATR0981-TRHY, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The ATR0981-TRHY part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ATR0981-TRHY:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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