NXP Semiconductors OM7609/BGA2748

Overview

BGA2748 from NXP Semiconductors is a silicon monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) wideband amplifier internally matched to 50 Ω, operating from 100 MHz to 3 GHz with 21.8 dB typical gain at 1 GHz, 1.9 dB noise figure, and −2.3 dBm saturated output power. It serves as an IF amplifier in LNBs, RF buffer between LNA and mixer, and driver stage before power amplifiers in cable systems and ISM-band transceivers.

For engineers reviewing the BGA2748 datasheet, BGA2748 pinout, BGA2748 application, or BGA2748 equivalent, key selection criteria include its unconditionally stable operation up to 3 GHz, internal 50 Ω matching eliminating external components, low-noise performance at 1–2 GHz, and SOT363 package compatibility with high-density RF PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The BGA2748 employs a single-stage GaAs-based MMIC architecture optimized for broadband small-signal amplification. Its unconditional stability (K > 1 across 100 MHz–3 GHz) and excellent isolation (|s12|² ≤ −40 dB up to 2 GHz) enable cascaded configurations without oscillation risk.

Internally matched input/output impedances eliminate external tuning networks, while separate GND1 and GND2 terminals reduce ground loop inductance-critical for maintaining 18 dB input return loss at 1 GHz and preserving linearity under 5.7 mA supply current at 3 V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOT363 (SC-88), 6-pin plastic surface-mount package with exposed thermal pad; dimensions 2.2 mm × 1.35 mm × 1.15 mm (L × W × H); JEDEC-compliant footprint.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar wideband MMIC amplifier applications.

Compared with QPL9547 and ERA-5SM+, the BGA2748 delivers optimal balance of noise, stability, and integration for cost-sensitive broadband IF amplification-its internal matching and dual-ground architecture simplify layout in fixed infrastructure equipment where thermal management and isolation are prioritized over minimal footprint.

Availability

BGA2748 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cable systems, LNB IF amplifiers, and ISM-band transceiver designs requiring stable component supply, consistent RF performance across production lots, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for BGA2748 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

NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor company specializing in high-performance RF, analog, and mixed-signal solutions for automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The BGA2748 belongs to NXP's legacy MMIC amplifier product line designed specifically for broadband infrastructure applications-including cable TV, satellite reception, and industrial wireless-where low noise, unconditional stability, and internal matching reduce design cycle time.

FAQ

What is the recommended supply decoupling for BGA2748?

Use a 22 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 2 mm of pin 1 (VS) and connected to GND2 (pins 2 and 5) using a short, low-inductance trace. Additional 100 pF capacitors may be added in parallel for frequencies above 1 GHz to suppress high-frequency supply noise that could modulate the BGA2748's gain.

Can BGA2748 operate at 5 V supply voltage?

No. The absolute maximum DC supply voltage for BGA2748 is 4 V per the limiting values table. Operating at 5 V exceeds this rating and risks permanent damage. The device is characterized and optimized for 3 V operation, delivering 5.7 mA supply current and 21.8 dB gain at that voltage-using higher voltage is not supported.

Is BGA2748 pin-compatible with BGA2747?

No. BGA2747 uses a different pinout (RF in on pin 1, VS on pin 6) and has distinct scattering parameters-its s11 and s22 phase responses differ significantly from BGA2748. Substituting BGA2747 for BGA2748 requires PCB redesign due to reversed RF path and incompatible grounding scheme.

Does BGA2748 require external DC blocking capacitors?

Yes. The BGA2748 RF ports are DC-coupled internally, so external 100 pF DC blocking capacitors (C2, C3 in Fig.2) are mandatory on both RF in (pin 6) and RF out (pin 3) to prevent DC bias disruption in cascaded stages. Values >100 pF degrade high-frequency response above 100 MHz.

What is the thermal pad connection requirement for BGA2748?

The SOT363 package includes an exposed thermal pad (pin 4 is GND1, but the pad itself is electrically isolated and thermally conductive). It must be soldered to a dedicated copper pour connected to GND2 via ≥4 thermal vias (0.3 mm diameter) to achieve the specified 300 K/W thermal resistance and prevent junction temperature exceedance at full 200 mW dissipation.