Diodes Incorporated ZAMP003H6TA

Overview

ZAMP003H6TA from Zetex Semiconductors is a monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) low-noise amplifier optimized for L-band and IF applications from 800 MHz to 2500 MHz, featuring 14.8 dB typical gain at 950 MHz, 6.8 mA typical supply current, and 50 Ω input/output impedance-used in satellite LNB receivers requiring ultra-low power and stable wideband amplification.

For engineers reviewing the ZAMP003H6TA datasheet, ZAMP003H6TA pinout, ZAMP003H6TA application, or ZAMP003H6TA equivalent, key selection criteria include its rising gain profile (15.1–15.8 dB at 2150 MHz), unconditionally stable K-factor >1.8, 5.8 dBm IP3 at 950 MHz, and SC70-6 package compatibility with space-constrained RF front-ends.

Technical Context

The ZAMP003H6TA employs a GaAs-based MMIC architecture with internal biasing optimized for single 5 V supply operation and no external inductors. Its rising gain slope compensates for frequency-dependent losses in coaxial cable and filter networks above 1 GHz.

It achieves unconditional stability across 800–2500 MHz via on-die stabilization networks, with measured reverse isolation >26 dB and output return loss up to 21 dB at 2150 MHz-enabling direct integration into 50 Ω systems without matching components.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SC70-6 surface-mount package (2.00 × 1.25 mm, 0.90 mm max height) with exposed thermal pad (not electrically connected); compatible with standard reflow profiles and 0805 passive placement.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with QPL9547 and MAX2655, the ZAMP003H6TA delivers the lowest current draw (6.8 mA) and best gain flatness across 800–2150 MHz-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, thermally constrained satellite and SMR receivers where power efficiency and simplicity are prioritized over ultimate NF or 5 GHz coverage.

Availability

ZAMP003H6TA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for satellite LNB receivers, set-top box tuners, and SMR base stations requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for ZAMP003H6TA 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

Zetex Semiconductors (now part of Diodes Incorporated) specialized in high-performance analog and RF semiconductors, with expertise in MMIC design and low-power RF solutions for communications markets.

The ZAMP series was developed specifically for ultra-low-current, wideband RF amplification in satellite, broadcast, and wireless infrastructure-emphasizing simplicity, 50 Ω system compatibility, and minimal external component count.

FAQ

Is an external inductor required for ZAMP003H6TA biasing?

No external inductor is required. The ZAMP003H6TA integrates an active bias network that operates directly from a 4.5–5.5 V DC supply. Application notes explicitly state "L1 and C5 are not fitted" for this device, distinguishing it from earlier ZAMP variants that needed external RF chokes.

What is the recommended DC blocking capacitor value for 950–2150 MHz operation?

A 100 pF NP0 ceramic capacitor is recommended for both input and output DC blocking. This value provides <0.5 Ω reactance at 950 MHz while maintaining low parasitic inductance-verified in Zetex's reference test circuit and layout guidelines for FR4 PCBs.

Can ZAMP003H6TA operate reliably at 2500 MHz despite being specified to 2150 MHz in most parameters?

Yes. The datasheet states "capable of extending to frequencies of 2.5 GHz" and confirms 15.1–15.8 dB gain and >14 dB return loss at 2150 MHz. Measured performance remains functional at 2500 MHz, though gain and NF degrade slightly-validated by Zetex's provisional characterization data.

Does the SC70-6 package include a thermal pad, and is it electrically connected?

The SC70-6 package features an exposed thermal pad on the bottom surface for enhanced heat dissipation, but it is not electrically connected to any internal node. It must be soldered to a copper pour for thermal management, per Zetex's package dimensions and assembly recommendations.