19-6955; Rev 0.1; August 2014

2

Application Block Diagram

Introduction to Predistortion Using the SC1889

Wideband signals in today’s telecommunications systems have high peak-to-average ratios and stringent

spectral regrowth specifications. These specifications place high linearity demands on power amplifiers.

Linearity may be achieved by backing off output power at the price of reducing efficiency. However, this

increases the component and operating costs of the power amplifier. Better linearity may be achieved

through the use of digital predistortion and other linearization techniques, but many of these are time

consuming and costly to implement.

Wireless service providers are deploying networks with wider coverage, greater subscriber density, and

higher data rates. These networks require more efficient power amplifiers. Additionally, the emergence of

distributed architectures and active antenna systems is driving the need for smaller and more efficient

power amplifier implementations. Further, there continues to be a strong push toward reducing the total

capital and operating costs of base stations.

With the SC1889, the complex signal processing is done in the RF domain resulting in a simple system-on-

chip that offers wide signal bandwidth, broad frequency of operation, and very low power consumption. It is

an elegant solution that reduces development costs and speeds time to market. Applicable across a broad

range of signals — including 2G, 3G, 4G wireless, and other modulation types—the powerful analog signal

processing engine is capable of linearizing the most efficient power amplifier topologies. The SC1889 is a

true RFin and RFout solution, supporting modular power amplifier designs that are independent of the

baseband and transceiver subsystems. The SC1889 delivers the required efficiency and performance

demanded by today’s wireless systems.