WLAN system trends and the implications for WLAN RFICs

Six trends in WLAN systems are described. For each trend, the implications for WLAN RFICs are described. The six trends include increasing levels of integration, dual band operation, large percentage tuning ranges, very high data rates, long range capability, and PA efficiency enhancements. Potential solutions to these issues are examined. A new extended range mode, transmitter power control system, and amplifier efficiency enhancement approach are presented. Regulatory and performance requirements are described. Radio architecture, RF circuit design techniques, and system solutions are all described. Several examples are drawn from a single-chip, dual-band, CMOS transceiver for IEEE 802.11a/b/g wireless LAN designed at the author's company.