nRF2460 external PA

[diode]

The product description says the nRF2460 has "Support for external PA". Since this chip does not present separate TX and RX RF terminals, and no apparent TDD output logic signal, how would this be done? Any examples out there?

[AmbystomaLabs]

The standard approach for adding an external PA to a wireless SoC is with a front end module (FEM). The FEM will have internal switches to select either Tx or Rx modes and may have an LNA in addition to a PA. Generally the mode selection for the FEM is done through GPIO, though some Nordic devices accomplish this through the VCC_PA connection.

Probably the most popular company for Bluetooth FEM's right now is Skyworks Inc. They have a relatively large selection of Bluetooth FEM's.

You can find them at: http://www.skyworksinc.com

[ovrebekk]

Hi

You can use the VDD_PA signal to control an external PA.

It will go high (1.8v) approximately 50us before the TX packet is sent, and will be low otherwise.

Best regards
Torbjørn