My Inquiry
My Account
STMicroelectronics BALF-NRF01D3
- Part No.:
- BALF-NRF01D3
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Category:
- Balun
- Package:
- 5-UFBGA, FCBGA
- Datasheet:
-
BALF-NRF01D3.pdf
- Description:
- BALUN 2.4GHZ-2.5GHZ 50/50 5UFBGA
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:15,933
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
BALF-NRF01D3 from STMicroelectronics is an ultraminiature 2.45 GHz balun with integrated conjugate matching network and harmonic filtering, designed specifically for differential RF interface between 50 Ω single-ended antenna traces and Nordic Semiconductor nRF51822-QFAA/QFAB and nRF51422-QFAA/QFAB transceivers. It delivers 1.46 dB typical insertion loss, 17 dB return loss, and <0.25 dB amplitude imbalance across 2400–2540 MHz.
For engineers reviewing the BALF-NRF01D3 datasheet, BALF-NRF01D3 pinout, BALF-NRF01D3 application, or BALF-NRF01D3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 50 Ω SE-to-differential impedance transformation, integrated 2nd/3rd harmonic suppression (−14 dB H2, −41 dB H3), low-profile flip-chip-on-glass construction (<560 µm height), and PCB space savings versus discrete matching solutions.
Technical Context
The BALF-NRF01D3 implements a monolithic IPD (Integrated Passive Device) structure on non-conductive glass substrate, enabling precise impedance control and minimal parasitic coupling. Its matching network is pre-optimized for the differential input impedance of nRF51822/nRF51422 transceivers, eliminating external matching components.
It functions as a passive, unpowered RF interface element with no bias control or active circuitry. The 5-bump flip-chip package integrates both balun functionality and harmonic filtering in a single device, supporting 2.4 GHz ISM band operation without external tuning capacitors on the SE port.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 2400–2540 MHz - fully covers 2.4 GHz ISM band including Bluetooth Low Energy channels |
| Insertion Loss | 1.46 dB typ - ensures minimal RF power loss between antenna and transceiver RFIO pins |
| Return Loss | 17 dB typ - indicates strong 50 Ω input match, reducing reflected power at SE port |
| Amplitude Imbalance | 0.2 dB typ - maintains balanced signal magnitude across differential outputs for clean IQ modulation |
| Phase Imbalance | 5° typ - preserves phase orthogonality critical for differential receiver sensitivity and transmitter EVM |
| H2 Attenuation | −14 dB min - suppresses second harmonic to meet FCC/ETSI radiated emission limits |
| H3 Attenuation | −41 dB min - strongly attenuates third harmonic, easing front-end filter requirements |
Pinout & Package
Package: 5-bump lead-free flip-chip on glass, 1.5 mm² footprint, 560 µm max height after reflow, ECOPACK® compliant.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (SE) | Single-ended RF input | 50 Ω antenna-side interface; no external capacitor required per datasheet Figure 9 |
| 2 (GND) | Ground reference | RF ground return path for balun core; must connect to solid ground plane |
| 3 (VCC) | DC bias feed | Provides DC path to transceiver VDD_RF; not a power supply input but a bias rail connection |
| 4 (DIFF) | Differential output (non-inverting) | Connects to nRF51xx RFIO_P pin; matched impedance for optimal signal integrity |
| 5 (DIFF) | Differential output (inverting) | Connects to nRF51xx RFIO_N pin; phase-inverted counterpart to Pin 4 |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Monolithic IPD on glass | Enables stable high-Q performance and minimal temperature drift vs. PCB-based matching |
| Pre-matched to nRF51422/nRF51822 | Eliminates need for external L/C matching network, reducing BOM count by ≥4 components |
| Integrated harmonic filtering | Reduces post-balun filtering complexity; meets spectral mask requirements without added SAW filters |
| Flip-chip bump geometry | Ensures repeatable 50 µm pitch interconnect and consistent impedance control across production lots |
| ECOPACK® lead-free compliance | Meets RoHS and halogen-free requirements for global industrial and consumer certifications |
Applications
| Bluetooth LE Wearables | Smart Home Sensors |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Compact wrist-worn fitness tracker requiring ultra-low profile RF front-end and battery life optimization. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Balun interface between PCB antenna and nRF51822 QFAA transceiver RFIO pins. Use Value: 1.46 dB insertion loss minimizes transmit power penalty; <560 µm height enables thin mechanical stack-up. | Use Scenario: Battery-powered door/window sensor transmitting periodic BLE advertisements in residential environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Single-ended to differential RF conversion with harmonic suppression for regulatory compliance. Use Value: Integrated −41 dB H3 attenuation eliminates need for external harmonic filter, saving PCB area and cost. |
| Medical Telemetry Devices | Industrial Asset Tags |
Use Scenario: ISO 13485-certified wireless pulse oximeter with strict EMI control and size constraints. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: RF interface ensuring amplitude/phase balance for reliable BLE link budget under RF interference. Use Value: 0.2 dB amplitude and 5° phase imbalance preserve receiver sensitivity and reduce bit error rate. | Use Scenario: Ruggedized warehouse asset tag operating in 2.4 GHz crowded spectrum with metal-mount constraints. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Impedance-transforming balun enabling efficient coupling to ceramic chip antenna. Use Value: 50 Ω SE input simplifies antenna matching; 17 dB return loss ensures stable SWR across temperature range. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar balun/matching network applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SKY13370-374LF | Higher insertion loss (1.8 dB typ), larger 1.6 × 0.9 mm package, no integrated harmonic filtering | Requires external 2nd/3rd harmonic suppression; less suitable for space-constrained BLE designs | Select when legacy layout compatibility with Skyworks footprint is required and harmonic filtering is handled elsewhere |
| DA14580-BAL01 | Matched only to Dialog DA14580; not compatible with nRF51xx; 1.2 mm² footprint | Not interchangeable - designed exclusively for Dialog SoC RFIO interface | Only valid for DA14580-based designs; not a functional substitute for BALF-NRF01D3 |
Compared with SKY13370-374LF and DA14580-BAL01, the BALF-NRF01D3 uniquely combines nRF51xx-specific matching, integrated harmonic filtering, and sub-560 µm height - making it the only drop-in solution that reduces component count while meeting BLE spectral mask requirements without layout redesign.
Availability
BALF-NRF01D3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for Bluetooth Low Energy wearables, smart home sensors, medical telemetry devices, and industrial asset tags requiring stable component supply and full production lifecycle support.
Supply support for BALF-NRF01D3 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
STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, designing and manufacturing microcontrollers, analog ICs, MEMS, and power management solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The BALF-NRF01D3 belongs to ST's RF passive portfolio, developed to simplify Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz ISM band RF front-end design by integrating matching, balancing, and harmonic filtering into miniature IPD packages.
FAQ
Is an external capacitor required on the SE (pin 1) port?
No. The BALF-NRF01D3 datasheet explicitly states "no capacitance needed on SE port (pin 5)" - this applies to pin 1 in top-view orientation per Figure 1. The internal matching network is fully self-contained, and adding external capacitance degrades return loss and harmonic rejection performance.
Can BALF-NRF01D3 be used with nRF52832 or nRF52840 transceivers?
No. The BALF-NRF01D3 is specifically optimized for the differential input impedance and RF characteristics of nRF51422 and nRF51822 transceivers. nRF52-series devices have different RFIO impedance profiles and require distinct matching networks such as BALF-NRF02D3 or BALF-NRF03D3.
What is the maximum RF input power rating?
The absolute maximum RF input power is +20 dBm (100 mW), as specified in Table 1 of the datasheet. Operation above this level risks permanent damage to the IPD structure due to thermal overstress or dielectric breakdown in the glass substrate.
Does BALF-NRF01D3 require DC blocking capacitors on its differential outputs?
No. The differential outputs (pins 4 and 5) are DC-coupled to the nRF51xx RFIO pins, which internally bias the differential pair. Inserting DC blocking capacitors would disrupt the transceiver's internal bias network and degrade amplitude/phase balance - the device is designed for direct connection per Figure 9.
BALF-NRF01D3 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 5-UFBGA, FCBGA
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Frequency Range:
- 2.4GHz ~ 2.5GHz
- Impedance - Unbalanced/Balanced:
- 50 / 50Ohm
- Phase Difference:
- 5°
- Insertion Loss (Max):
- 1.5dB
- Return Loss (Min):
- -17.5dB
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
BALF-NRF01D3 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BALF-NRF01D3 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BALF-NRF01D3 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 BALF-NRF01D3 reliable?
The price and inventory of BALF-NRF01D3 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BALF-NRF01D3 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BALF-NRF01D3?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BALF-NRF01D3 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BALF-NRF01D3?
BALF-NRF01D3 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BALF-NRF01D3 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 BALF-NRF01D3?
For technical support, including BALF-NRF01D3 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BALF-NRF01D3 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BALF-NRF01D3 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BALF-NRF01D3 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 BALF-NRF01D3 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BALF-NRF01D3?
All BALF-NRF01D3 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BALF-NRF01D3, 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 BALF-NRF01D3 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BALF-NRF01D3:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BALF-NRF01D3 Tags
-
2450BL15B0100001E
Johanson Technology Inc.
-
0900BL15D0050001E
Johanson Technology Inc.
-
0900PC16J0042001E
Johanson Technology Inc.
-
2450BM15A0002001E
Johanson Technology Inc.
-
2450BM14G0011001T
Johanson Technology Inc.
-
BD0810N50100AHF
TTM Technologies, Inc.
-
1720BL15B0050001E
Johanson Technology Inc.
-
0900PC15A0036001E
Johanson Technology Inc.
-
0868BM15C0001001E
Johanson Technology Inc.
-
0915BM15A0001001E
Johanson Technology Inc.
-
HHM1776B3
TDK Corporation
-
2450BM14E0003001T
Johanson Technology Inc.
Tech Hub
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
