Balun Compatibility w/ Rev 3 Silicon

[Dave_couling]

I've notice that the ST Balun NRF01D3 that I've used for my current design is not listed as compatible with Rev 3 (Build code: H) nRF51822 Silicon. Has there been any change in the Radio section and/or matching on Rev 3 Silicon vs Rev 2 Silicon?

I've also noted that the ST Balun - BALF-NRF01D3 is spec'd as having lower insertion losses than the Nordic recommended Johnason part. Just curious as to why the ST part isn't listed on the Nordic site anymore. Thanks

Rgds,

DC

[FormerMember]

There is no difference in the radio section between silicon revision 2 and 3 of nRF51.

With silicon revision 3, BALF-NRF01D3 should only be used with the 256kB flash / 16 kB RAM version of the chip. The reason is that BALF-NRF01D3 doesn't perform that well with the other versions nRF51822 QFN rev 3. It means that it gives lower output power, and smaller margins for passing FCC/ETSI. That's why we recommend you to use Johanson 2450BM14E0003 or BALF-NRF01E3 instead.

[Dave_couling]

Thanks Kristin,

I found that the ST performs much better than the Johanson for the nRF51822 QFAA. Thank you for confirming compatibility.