Skyworks develops new connectivity suite for automotive applications

By Alex Pluemer, contributing writer

Skyworks Solutions, Inc. recently announced a new addition to its SkyOne cellular platform, a new suite of next-generation SkyOne Ultra 3.0 devices for delivering high-bandwidth LTE connectivity to advanced automotive applications such as vehicle-to-everything (V2X) services. The new portfolio supports all global cellular bands, exceeds LTE CAT 16 requirements, and is scalable to 5G New Radio (5G NR) standards. The portfolio, compatible with leading chipset providers and with a simplified compliance process, reduces design complexity and time to market, said Skyworks.

SkyOne Ultra 3.0 was designed as a one-stop shop for automotive connectivity and provides key analog and RF functionality for both transmit and receive paths of LTE communications. Transmit devices feature integrated duplexes (PAMiDs), low-noise amplifiers (LNAs), antenna switches, and power amplifier modules with SkyBlue technology to deliver more efficient performance, while diversity receive modules feature LNAs, antenna switches, filters, and other required components within the LTE receive path.

The entire cellular solution is housed in a package size measuring less than 40 × 40 mm, which is key to meeting automotive-qualified network-attached device (NAD) requirements, said Skyworks. The connectivity engines can be optimized for regions like North America, China, Europe, and other parts of the world.

“With the introduction of SkyOne Ultra 3.0 for automotive, Skyworks is enabling the full benefit of high-speed data and real-time communication in the connected car,” according to Joel King, senior vice president and general manager of mobile solutions for Skyworks. “At a higher level, in-vehicle technologies and rapidly changing standards are being adopted at a pace previously unheard of in the automotive industry — particularly with the advent of 5G and the move toward autonomous driving. Our differentiated portfolio takes seamless connectivity to the next level, making the driving experience increasingly smarter and safer.”

The SkyOne Ultra 3.0 suite of connectivity devices includes:

• SKYA230xx front-end modules with SkyBlue enabling technology, integrated duplexes, and low-noise amplifiers
• SKYA220x power amplifiers
• SKYA250xx DRx and MIMO modules
• SKYA21xxx discrete switches and LNA products