In the News
RFaxis front-end IC assists ZigBee networks
RFaxis has launched the RFX2411, a 2.4GHz single-chip ZigBee® RF Front-end IC (RFeIC™) which features a power amplifier, low noise amplifier and antenna diversity switch in single-die CMOS process.
CES 2012: Suppliers Display IEEE 802.11ac Compliant Chips, Fabless Startup
Releases CMOS Based Integrated RF Front-End For Smart Meters
Now, we all know that the popular International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this week will display all sorts of fancy new consumer gadgets, including the hyped Ultrabooks. Amongst the devices that enable these products will be RF ICs. Demonstrating a variety of RF ICs will be some known and some emerging semiconductor suppliers.
RFaxis has been named an honoree in the Innovative Product in the Semiconductor
category for the TechAmerica Orange County High-Tech Innovation Awards.
RFaxis has been named an honoree in the Innovative Product in the Semiconductor category for the TechAmerica Orange County High-Tech Innovation Awards. Now in its 18th year, this premier business event celebrates excellence and achievement in the region's technology industry, and honors local companies, individuals and products that drive innovation in Orange County.
RFaxis, Inc. Named as Finalist in Innovative Product of 2010 in the Semiconductor Category for TechAmerica High-Tech Innovation Awards
RFaxis has been named a finalist in the Innovative Product of 2010 in the Semiconductor Industry category for the TechAmerica Orange County High-Tech Innovation Awards. Now in its 18th year, this premier business event celebrates excellence and achievement in the region's technology industry, and honors local companies, individuals and products that drive innovation in Orange County.
Wi-Fi, WiMAX, LTE and CES 2011
The very day before the kickoff of the 2011 International CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in Las Vegas, Qualcomm announced its $3.2B acquisition of Atheros Communications, thus perfectly reflecting the major theme of this year's CES: "Connectivity Everywhere, Wirelessly."
RFaxis, NXP Solutions Optimize Performance of ZigBee Module
RFaxis announced that its RFX2401H RF Front-end Integrated Circuit or RFeIC, along with NXP's JN5148 System-on-a-Chip enables a cost-effective high-power ZigBee module from Maxx Tech Systems.
Gadgets, Consumer Recovery Spur Optimism for CES Show
Local companies are doubling down this week in Las Vegas at the International Consumer Electronics Show, a massive yearly trade gathering that hypes the latest gadgets.
A sense of renewed optimism after two downbeat years is driving expansion for many at the show. Some companies that had booths at last year's show are going bigger this time around. Others that went without booths in the past are doing them this year.
EE Times updates 'Silicon 60' list of emerging startups
The EE Times 60 Emerging Startups list, includes startups involved in semiconductor technologies for analog circuits, memory, logic, power, MEMS, optoelectronics, EDA software, foundry manufacturing, semiconductor production equipment, electronic subsystems, displays, packaging and materials. The chosen companies have made an impression on EE Times editors based on a mix of criteria, including technology, intended market, maturity, financial position, investment profile and executive leadership.
RFaxis Inc. (Irvine, Calif.), founded January 2008, uses BiCMOS process technology in conjunction with its own technology to create integrated RF front-end ICs for wireless standards including Bluetooth, WLAN, Zigbee, WiMax and mobile phone markets.
RFaxis Ramps Mass Production of Major Product Lines
RFaxis announced that lines of its innovative RF Front-end Integrated Circuits (RFeIC), which began shipping earlier this year, are now shipping in high volumes.
The RFX2400 RFeIC is designed to operate at extremely low voltages for battery-life critical portable applications such as camcorders, gaming controllers, remote controls, media players, headsets, monitors and sensors, etc. This RFeIC is ideal for 2.4GHz ISM band applications, including efficient Class 1 Bluetooth solutions, requiring compact form-factors and long battery-life.
RFaxis Ramps Mass Production of Major Product Lines
Dr. Ping Peng, RFaxis' COO and VP of business development, explained, "The RFeIC products listed here form the basis of our launch product portfolio based upon the BiCMOS silicon process. We have worked very closely with our manufacturing partners to quickly scale-up from pre-production to full scale commercial production. Looking ahead, our second generation portfolio of pure CMOS RFeICs will begin shipping in the fourth quarter of this year."
The RFX2401 product line is comprised of both a standard power RFX2401 RFeIC as well as a high-power RFX2401H RFeIC, and has been optimized for the rocketing ZigBee market, especially for such applications as smart meters, home automation, wireless healthcare, monitoring, etc.
RFaxis Ramps Mass Production of Major Product Lines
Mike Neshat, president and CEO of RFaxis said, "This time last year we were just unveiling RFaxis to the world. Within twelve short months we've rapidly graduated from passing out engineering samples to commercially shipping multiple RFeIC and antenna products. With respect to the chip industry norm, what our team has achieved is truly amazing from a technology, operations and valuation perspective."
The RFX2402 product line is comprised of both a standard power RFX2402 RFeIC as well as a high-power RFX2402H RFeIC, and has been optimized for high-performance, cost-effective WLAN 802.11g/n applications.
RFaxis Bolsters Advisory Board
Irvine-based RFaxis, a semiconductor firm headed by Mike Neshat, and focused on the RF semiconductor market, said this week that it has added Professor Hongliang Hu to its board of advisors. RFaxis said Professor Hu is the "founder" of China's semiconductor industry, having served as Deputy General Manager of Shanghai Zhangjiang (Group) Co., Ltd. and a founder of China's first semiconductor fabrication facility, the Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC). Hu is now Chairman of the Shanghai Data Solution Co., Ltd., Chairman of the Shanghai Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park Development Affairs Consultative Committee and Chairman of the Pudong Information Infrastructure Development Research Consulting Center. Neshat said the addition of Hu will help it expand its presence and production capacity in China.
Founder of China's Semiconductor Industry Joins RFaxis Board of Advisors
RFaxis announced that Professor Hongliang Hu, a distinguished executive, scholar and diplomat credited for growing China's semiconductor industry, will join RFaxis' Board of Advisors.
Professor Hu laid the foundations for China's semiconductor industry in Shanghai in 2000 as Deputy General Manager of the Shanghai Zhangjiang (Group) Co., Ltd., and was instrumental in establishing with Dr. Richard Chang the Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC), China's first and premier semiconductor fabrication foundry.
Founder of China's Semiconductor Industry Joins RFaxis Board of Advisors
Mike Neshat, RFaxis president and CEO said, "We are extremely fortunate to have someone as acclaimed and accomplished as Professor Hu on our Advisory Board. China has fast become a significant force behind the consumer electronics industry today in terms of design, manufacturing, innovation, and investment capital. According to the Global Semiconductor Association, Chinese companies overflowing with cash are encouraged by the Chinese government to invest in accessing and developing intellectual property in the consumer electronics space. Professor Hu, with his network and technology and business acumen, will be a tremendous advocate in terms of helping us expand our presence and production capacity in China."
Founder of China's Semiconductor Industry Joins RFaxis Board of Advisors
Professor Hu commented, "I am impressed with the RF innovations that RFaxis has invented in such a short period of time. Also, the rapid pace at which they can make and commercialize these inventions is also highly commendable. There is significant synergy between China's consumer electronics industry needs and RFaxis core design competencies in terms of their cellular mobile phone, RF front-end and antenna solutions. The inside-China consumer electronics market is just as compelling as the overall global consumer electronics, and I look forward to helping Mike and his team benefit from exciting opportunities that lie ahead."
Founder of China's Semiconductor Industry Joins RFaxis Board of Advisors
Professor Hu now serves as the Chairman of the Board for Shanghai Data Solution Co., Ltd., Chairman of the Shanghai Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park Development Affairs Consultative Committee and Chairman of the Pudong Information Infrastructure Development Research Consulting Center. Professor Hu also holds executive positions in various industry associations, as well as a distinguished membership to the IT Advisory Committee of the Shanghai Municipal Government. Furthermore, Professor Hu serves as an Adjunct Professor at the prestigious University of Science and Technology of China and Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Professor Hu has been recognized by China's President Hu Jintao and former President Jiang Zemin for his distinguished service and achievements, and has received several honors and awards.
RFaxis Announces Shipment of Innovative Field-Confined Multiple Resonance Antennas
RFaxis announced commercial shipment of its patented RF Front-end Antenna Technology (RFeAT) solutions, which include:
- Embedded antennas optimally matched with RFaxis' innovative RFeIC (RF Front-end IC) chips to provide the highest efficiency RF front-end solutions for wireless.
- Standalone Wi-Fi high gain and wide band booster antennas to extend the range of wireless networks and devices.
RFaxis Announces Shipment of Innovative Field-Confined Multiple Resonance Antennas
Mike Neshat, president and CEO of RFaxis said, "Our RFeIC chips clearly deliver best-in-class RF front-end performance and pricing for customers seeking only an RF front-end solution. However, there are major customers that have also come to us for a total optimized RF system solution comprised of the RF front-end and antenna. Given that the RF front-end and antenna are pure complements for any wireless devices, one needs to be designed with respect to the other to achieve optimal RF system performance. RFaxis is truly unique in that we are the only company with both RF front-end and antenna expertise, and by leveraging both concurrently, we are undeniably changing the RF game."
RFaxis Announces Shipment of Innovative Field-Confined Multiple Resonance Antennas
Dr. Ping Peng, RFaxis' COO and VPGM explained, "Without the antenna, you simply can't have 'wireless,' and to maximize the RF performance of any wireless device, the antenna must be properly matched with the RF front-end and tuned to the device form-factor. Our advanced embedded antenna solutions are based on an innovative Field-Confined Multiple Resonance technology, upon which the impedance of our embedded antennas are optimally matched with the impedance of our RFeIC chips, thereby resulting in a truly synchronized RF system."
Ultra-High Efficiency Multi-Mode/Multi-Band Transmitter IC
RFaxis unveiled at Computex its RFX8000 ultra-high efficiency multi-mode/multi-band transmitter integrated circuit (IC) chip for 3G and 4G cellular wireless devices. This RFX8000 chip is based on a new patent pending RF multi-mode/multi-band transmit IC architecture innovated by RFaxis for creating single-chip/single-die solutions specifically designed to deliver longer talk-time, clearer calls and higher data rates for cellular mobile phones.
The new RFX8000 chip comes fully integrated with linear WCDMA/EDGE power amplifiers, switching functionality to support multiple modes/bands and on-die matching circuitry. The RFX8000 chip will initially be designed and manufactured using standard 0.18 micron CMOS silicon processes.
RFaxis Breaks Through Cellular Mobile Phone Power Efficiency Barrier
RFaxis, a fabless semiconductor company focusing on innovative, next-generation solutions for the wireless and connectivity markets, unveiled its RFX8000 ultra-high efficiency multi-mode/multi-band transmitter integrated circuit (IC) chip for 3G and 4G cellular wireless devices. This RFX8000 chip is based on a new patent pending RF multi-mode/multi-band transmit IC architecture innovated by RFaxis for creating single-chip/single-die solutions specifically designed to deliver longer talk-time, clearer calls and higher data rates for cellular mobile phones.
"While our current RF Front-end Integrated Circuit (RFeIC) chips for Bluetooth, WLAN and dual-mode Bluetooth/WLAN all deliver value to cell phone manufacturers today," explained Mike Neshat, President and CEO of RFaxis, "our RFX8000 transmitter IC chip addresses the most critical challenge impacting the performance of 3G and 4G multi-mode/multi-band cell phones: transmit power efficiency and performance. In fact, the RFX8000 can enable a dramatic 200 percent to 400 percent improvement in the average (operational) power efficiency for such cell phones."
RFaxis Breaks Through Cellular Mobile Phone Power Efficiency Barrier and
Unveils Its Ultra-High Efficiency
RFaxis unveiled at Computex its RFX8000 ultra-high efficiency multi-mode/multi-band transmitter integrated circuit (IC) chip for 3G and 4G cellular wireless devices. This RFX8000 chip is based on a new patent pending RF multi-mode/multi-band transmit IC architecture innovated by RFaxis for creating single-chip/single-die solutions specifically designed to deliver longer talk-time, clearer calls and higher data rates for cellular mobile phones.
RFaxis Breaks Through Cellular Mobile Phone Power Efficiency Barrier and
Unveils Its Ultra-High Efficiency Multi-Mode/Multi-Band Transmitter IC
The new RFX8000 chip comes fully integrated with linear WCDMA/EDGE power amplifiers, switching functionality to support multiple modes/bands and on-die matching circuitry. The RFX8000 chip will initially be designed and manufactured using standard 0.18 micron CMOS silicon processes.
Dr. Oleksandr Gorbachov, RFaxis' CTO, explains further, "Today, multi-mode mobile phones operating in EDGE mode require linear transmit behavior to maximize power efficiency. Unfortunately, the conventional multi-mode cell phones' transmit GSM/EDGE chain utilizes GSM power amplifiers, which are typically non-linear and therefore result in wasted power when in EDGE mode. Also, cell phone size and cost constraints force designers to use the same GSM power amplifier for GSM, EDGE and WCDMA modes, resulting in trade-offs needed to achieve linear and non-linear operations in the same device, and thereby causing adverse power efficiency degradation."
RFaxis Adds Former RFMD Exec As Advisor
Irvine-based RFaxis, the developer of fabless semiconductors headed by Mike Neshat, said Tuesday that it has added Dr. David L. Lyon, former Vice President and Business General Manager of RF Micro Devices, as an advisor to the firm. Lyon is currently founder and CEO of consulting firm Sage Strategies. Lyon has also served as CEO of Silicon Wave, before its acquisition by RFMD, and also was at Pacific Communications Communications Sciences, which he founded and sold to Cirrus Logic. RFaxis is a developer of integrated RF front-end devices for the wireless communications market.
Former RFMD Executive Joins RFaxis Board of Advisors
RFaxis announced that Dr. David L. Lyon joined RFaxis' Board of Advisors.
"Dave brings to our Advisory Board valuable experience gained from his diverse career as an innovator and executive in the field of semiconductors as well as telecommunications," said Mike Neshat, president and CEO of RFaxis. "Also, we share a common bond as accomplished serial entrepreneurs, and I truly appreciate Dave's successes in founding and steering pivotal technology ventures into profitable businesses. We look forward to Dave's guidance and contributions as a trusted strategic advisor and a technology advocate."
Former RFMD Executive Joins RFaxis Board of Advisors
Dr. Lyon, a former vice president and business unit general manager of RF Micro Devices, Inc. (RFMD), is the founder and CEO of Sage Strategies(R), a management and technology consulting firm.
"Formally trained as an RF and communications engineer, I've been intrigued with RFaxis since their market launch, and have been tracking their progress," said Dr. Lyon. "The RFaxis RF front-end architecture is game-changing not only because it enables a complete, truly integrated RF front-end device on silicon, but also because the company can create new RF front-end devices for high profitability applications using any process technology."
Former RFMD Executive Joins RFaxis Board of Advisors
Prior to Sage Strategies, Dr. Lyon served as CEO of Silicon Wave from 1998 to 2004, a startup company that pioneered Bluetooth technology for the cellular and personal computer markets. In 2004, Dr. Lyon successfully facilitated the acquisition of Silicon Wave by RFMD [RFMD], and subsequently served as a vice president and general manager of RFMD's wireless connectivity business unit. From 1987 through 1993, Dr. Lyon was founder and CEO of Pacific Communications Sciences (PCSI), a company that pioneered digital cellular and voice processing technologies. In 1992, Dr. Lyon and his team negotiated the acquisition of PCSI by Cirrus Logic [CRUS] , and profitably grew the business to an annual revenue run rate of $140 million in 1995. Dr. Lyon earned his Bachelor, Masters, and PhD degrees in electrical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Bits and Pieces:
Irvine-based RFaxis Inc. Chief Executive Mike Neshat recently received the EE Times Ace Award for startup of the year. RFaxis, which makes specialized chips for cell phones, targets what's known as front-end circuitry, the most finicky part of a circuit board. "We all know that startups are essential for kick-starting the recovery and stimulating job growth," Neshat said.
Two O.C. tech innovators win awards
Two local tech companies have won the prestigious EE Times Annual Creativity in Electronics (ACE) Awards.
- RFaxis in Irvine is Start-up of the Year
- Steve Sanghi, head of Microchip Technology Inc., Mission Viejo, is Executive of the Year.
RFaxis is focused on designing innovative radio-frequency solutions for wireless connectivity. All necessary amplifiers, switching circuitry, harmonic filters and matching networks fit on a single chip.
"Launching and growing a startup is not for the faint of heart, especially today in the midst of the most challenging economy in recent years," said RFaxis CEO Mike Neshat. "But we all know that startups are essential for kick-starting the recovery and stimulating job growth. Hense, we salute all entrepreneurs who dare to live their dreams and turn challenges into successes. We are all winners."
RFaxis Named Winner of Prestigious 2010 EE Times Ace Award for Start-up of the Year
RFaxis was selected as the winner of this prestigious award for innovating a revolutionary, patent pending RF front-end architecture, and using this architecture to launch the world's first family of best-performance/best-cost, silicon-based, single-chip/single-die RF Front-end Integrated Circuit (RFeIC) devices that come complete with all the necessary amplifiers, switching circuitry, harmonic filters, and matching networks integrated on a single-die. RFaxis also offers high-gain high-efficiency antennas optimally matched with its RFeICs to deliver comprehensive, best-in-class RF solutions for wireless devices.
RFaxis Named Winner of Prestigious 2010 EE Times Ace Award for Start-up of the Year
RFaxis announced it was named the winner in EE Times sixth Annual Creativity in Electronics (ACE) Awards (www.eetimes-ace.com) for Start-up of the Year. The 2010 EE Times ACE awards celebrate the creators of technology who demonstrate leadership and innovation in the global electronics industry.
The EE Times Annual Creativity in Electronics (ACE) Awards honors innovators who demonstrate global electronics industry leadership and celebrates the creators of technology who exhibit leadership, innovation and shape the world we live in. The EE Times ACE Start-up of the Year Award recognizes a start-up (under three years in business) electronics (device or system) company that demonstrates excellence in business development and/or technology development processes with the potential to become a technical or market leader in the global electronics industry.
ACE slideshow: Celebrating creativity in electronics
The electronics industry turned out to honor some of its best and brightest earlier this week at the sixth EE Times Annual Creativity in Electronics (ACE) Awards at the Embedded Systems Conference.
In all, 13 awards were presented, including two given by media sponsor IEEE Spectrum.
EE Times honors 2010 ACE Award winners
EE Times Tuesday (April 27) honored the winners of the sixth Annual Creativity in Electronics (ACE) Awards at a reception here in conjunction with the Embedded Systems Conference.
The 2010 winners, by category, are:
Startup of the Year Award: RFaxis Inc.
RFaxis Named Winner of Prestigious 2010 EE Times Ace Award for Start-up of the Year
RFaxis announced it was named the winner in EE Times sixth Annual Creativity in Electronics (ACE) Awards (www.eetimes-ace.com) for Start-up of the Year. The 2010 EE Times ACE awards celebrate the creators of technology who demonstrate leadership and innovation in the global electronics industry.
Words cannot describe our excitement for being selected for this prestigious award -- this is a tremendous honor given all of the compelling start-up companies that were considered," expresses Mike Neshat, CEO of RFaxis.
RFaxis Named Winner of Prestigious 2010 EE Times Ace Award for Start-up of the Year
RFaxis was selected as the winner of this prestigious award for innovating a revolutionary, patent pending RF front-end architecture, and using this architecture to launch the world's first family of best-performance/best-cost, silicon-based, single-chip/single-die RF Front-end Integrated Circuit (RFeIC) devices that come complete with all the necessary amplifiers, switching circuitry, harmonic filters, and matching networks integrated on a single-die. RFaxis also offers high-gain high-efficiency antennas optimally matched with its RFeICs to deliver comprehensive, best-in-class RF solutions for wireless devices.
RFaxis Named Winner of Prestigious 2010 EE Times Ace Award for Start-up of the Year
The EE Times Annual Creativity in Electronics (ACE) Awards honors innovators who demonstrate global electronics industry leadership and celebrates the creators of technology who exhibit leadership, innovation and shape the world we live in. The EE Times ACE Start-up of the Year Award recognizes a start-up (under three years in business) electronics (device or system) company that demonstrates excellence in business development and/or technology development processes with the potential to become a technical or market leader in the global electronics industry.
RFaxis Named Winner of Prestigious 2010 EE Times Ace Award for Start-up of the Year
"The 2010 winners represent the execution of forward-thinking technologies and creativity that captures the imagination of consumers, illustrating the influence that electronics and embedded design professionals have on today's culture," said Junko Yoshida, editor in chief, EE Times.
Reflecting on the Best of CES 2010
Scaling Wi-Fi down
Not only is Wi-Fi getting faster and more reliable, but chipsets are being refined to better satisfy size, power, and price constraints posed when embedding wireless in a wider variety of consumer electronic devices. For example:
RFaxis unveiled a new "pure CMOS" RF Front-end Integrated Circuits (RFeIC) platform to be used by its next generation of fully integrated, single-chip, single-die RF front-end solutions. Fabricating an entire radio on a single silicon die will make embedded wireless more affordable for small/inexpensive devices. RFaxis plans to launch five major RFeIC lines this summer, to address 802.11, Bluetooth, Zigbee, WiMAX, WHDI, and mobile phone needs.
RFaxis Chosen for ZigBee, WLAN Design Wins
Wireless RF semiconductor company, RFaxis announced that it has scored design wins with Taiwan-based CeraMicro Technology Corp. RFaxis' industry-first RFeICs (RF Front-end Integrated Circuits) will be used in CeraMicro's System-in-Package (SiP) solutions for Zigbee and WLAN.
RFaxis Secures Zigbee and WLAN Design Wins
RFaxis, Inc. announced that Taiwan-based CeraMicro Technology Corp. has chosen RFaxis' RF Front-end ICs (RFeICs) for integration into its system-in-package (SiP) solutions for Zigbee and WLAN.
CeraMicro is a leading provider of Zigbee, WLAN, and Bluetooth SiPs and RF modules. CeraMicro's Zigbee modules (eZigbee) are widely used in various applications including asset management, energy management, monitoring & sensoring, lighting, security, HVAC, home care, utility metering, thermostats, consumer electronics remote controls, PC peripherals, and audio devices.
RFaxis Gets Design Win
Irvine-based RFaxis, a semiconductor firm developing wireless RF products, said Wednesday that the firm's products have been selected by Taiwanese firm CeraMicro Technology Corp. The firm said that it will use RFaxis' front-end ICs as part of Zigbee and WLAN products. CeraMicro develops wireless modules for Zigbee, WLAN, and Bluetooth. RFaxis did not say what kind of volume it was expecting from the design win.
CeraMicro Technology Selects RFaxis' RFeICs for Its Zigbee and WLAN Solutions
RFaxis, a fabless semiconductor company focused on innovative, next-generation RF solutions for the wireless and connectivity markets, announced that Taiwan-based CeraMicro Technology Corp. has chosen RFaxis' RF Front-end Integrated Circuits (RFeICs) for integration into its System-in-Package (SiP) solutions for Zigbee and WLAN.
RFaxis Secures CeraMicro For Zigbee And WLAN Design
CeraMicro has designed RFaxis' RFX2401 and RFX2402 RFeICs into its eZigbee and SiP RF modules, respectively. RFaxis' single-chip, single-die, RFeICs are poised to replace conventional larger, multi-die front-end modules. Leveraging BiCMOS technology, RFaxis' chips are designed to reduce the complexity of wireless designs, lower manufacturing costs via a smaller footprint and reduced bill of materials cost, accelerate time to market, provide superior performance for a competitive advantage, and are ultra low power to offer improved power efficiency over conventional front-end module technologies.
RFaxis Offers Embedded Antenna Solutions
RFaxis, a fabless semiconductor company focused on innovative, next-generation RF solutions for the wireless and connectivity markets, announced the debut of its embedded antenna products. Taking an innovative approach to antennas, RFaxis will now have the ability to offer total front-end solutions. To head up its efforts, RFaxis has appointed noted industry veteran Ping Peng as Vice President, Antenna Products. Key among Peng's first initiatives will be to create the industry's first series of broadband, high efficiency, high gain embedded antennas.
RFaxis Expands RF Technology Leadership Position by Offering Innovative Embedded Antenna Solutions
RFaxis, a fabless semiconductor company focused on innovative, next-generation RF solutions for the wireless and connectivity markets, announced the debut of its embedded antenna products. Taking an innovative approach to antennas, RFaxis will now have the ability to offer total front-end solutions. To head up its efforts, RFaxis has appointed noted industry veteran Ping Peng as Vice President, Antenna Products. Key among Peng's first initiatives will be to create the industry's first series of broadband, high efficiency, high gain embedded antennas.
New Patents Filed By RFaxis Allow Simultaneous Operation Of WLAN And Bluetooth In Handheld And Mobile Applications
RFaxis' patent pending RFeICs integrate the PA, LNA, transmit and receive switching circuitry, the associated matching network, and the harmonic filter all in a single-chip, single-die device. These RFeICs combine superior performance, high sensitivity and efficiency, low noise, small form factor, and low cost to form an ideal solution for applications requiring low power, extended range and bandwidth and small form factor.
New Patents Filed by RFaxis Allow Simultaneous Operation of WLAN and Bluetooth in Handheld and Mobile Applications
RFaxis, Inc. has filed three patents for its wireless semiconductor solutions internationally and with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. These solutions are intended to replace the existing front-end module technologies used in devices that incorporate wireless capabilities, specifically mobile platforms (including handsets).
New Patents Filed by RFaxis Allow Simultaneous Operation of WLAN and Bluetooth in Handheld and Mobile Applications
RFaxis announced that it has filed three patents for its wireless semiconductor solutions internationally and with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. These solutions are poised to replace the existing front-end module technologies used in devices that incorporate wireless capabilities, specifically mobile platforms (including handsets).
Patent Pending Broadband Wireless Technology Poised to Displace Traditional RF Front-End Modules
RFaxis announced the availability of two new whitepapers titled, "RF Front-end Integrated Circuits" and "RFaxis System Noise Figure Enhancements: Significant Noise Figure and Sensitivity Improvements in 802.11, Bluetooth and Zigbee Systems." The papers examine the differences between RFaxis' patent pending RF Front-end Integrated Circuits (RFeICs) and conventional FEMs, and detail the advantages gained by using RFeICs, including significant system noise figure improvement, substantial power efficiency, increased bandwidth, and greater range.
Interview with Mike Neshat, RFaxis
A few weeks ago, we were surprised to run into a new launch of a semiconductor startup. Semiconductor startups seem to be quite rare in today's environment, with few companies being funded or launched, due both to the difficulty of bringing products to market, lack of investment capital, as well as lots of established, large companies in the industry. Irvine-based RFaxis (www.rfaxis.com) is tackling the RF front end market, and we spoke with Mike Neshat, President and CEO of the company, to learn more about where the firm fits, why Mike decided to start a chip firm, and how far along it is now with its product.
RFaxis' Patent Pending Technology Poised to Displace Traditional RF Front-End Modules
RFaxis announced the availability of two new whitepapers titled, "RF Front-end Integrated Circuits" and "RFaxis System Noise Figure Enhancements: Significant Noise Figure and Sensitivity Improvements in 802.11, Bluetooth and Zigbee Systems." The papers examine the differences between RFaxis' patent pending RF Front-end Integrated Circuits (RFeICs) and conventional FEMs, and detail the advantages gained by using RFeICs, including significant system noise figure improvement, substantial power efficiency, increased bandwidth, and greater range.
The whitepapers also point out that the market is ready for this new advancement in technology, and alternatives to conventional, often burdensome RF front-end modules have not been readily available until now.
RFaxis' Patent Pending Technology Poised to Displace Traditional RF Front-End Modules
The RFaxis designs include a high efficiency and high linearity PA for the transmit channel, a high power LNA for the receive channel, a transmit/receive switch, matching and harmonic filters, a transmit power detector, and control circuitry. These parts are available in a 3mm x 3mm QFN package today and will be offered in even smaller packages in Q4 2009.
"We truly feel that our approach has solved the existing RF front-end problems," noted Mike Neshat, president and CEO of RFaxis. "By integrating all of the components required for an RF front-end onto a single-die, we have introduced the lowest cost, highest performance, smallest form factor RF front-end solution in the world, and created a true plug and play device which will change the way engineers and system designers approach their designs. We are simplifying a complex task, thus freeing the designer to tackle other challenges."
Wireless Chip Solves The RF "Front-End Problem"
Most RF designers have faced the so-called front-end problem, which concerns the circuits that connect the antenna and the RF/baseband chip. It derives from the diverse nature of the circuits that make up the front end - the low-noise amplifier, the high-power power amplifier (PA), the transmit/receive (Tx/Rx) switch, and various impedance matching circuits and filters, each of which typically requires a costly and complex mix of individual parts from diverse sources, not to mention different process technologies.
Thanks to the extensive RF Axis patent portfolio, all that circuitry now fits inside a tiny biCMOS chip. The result is reduced complexity, shorter design time, lower manufacturing costs, and a reduced bill of materials. The RFX2401 targets Bluetooth class 1 and single-port ZigBee applications in the 2.4- to 2.5-GHz band. The RF front-end integrated circuit (RFeIC) connects directly to the single-chip wireless transceiver via a bandpass filter. The only other part required is a single bypass capacitor.
Front-End Integrated Circuits
RFaxis has developed a new design process that allows the fabrication of all the components needed for a front end module on a single die, including a proprietary method for switching the RF signal received from the antenna, also known as an the RF switch.
We are currently using this technique to fabricate single die front end devices in BiCMOS, though the technology can be applied to other IC fabrication methods as well. This new innovation is called RFeIC for RF Front end Integrated Circuit.
Irvine Startup Debuts Chips to Improve Wireless
A chip startup that's flown under the radar for a few years now is trying to make its name known. Irvine's RFaxis Inc., which designs chips for networked mobile devices, sampled its products at a big electronics trade show last week.
The fledgling company debuted two chips at Taiwan's Computex trade show. The chips are designed to improve devices that receive and transmit information on local networks. RFaxis targets what's known as front-end circuitry, the most finicky part of a circuit board.
Irvine's RFaxis chips in to create the ultimate solution
Irvine-based RFaxis Inc. is a semiconductor company that specializes in next-generation wireless solutions designed for the multi-billion dollar Bluetooth, WLAN, MIMO and Zigbee platforms.
RFaxis is at the forefront of this RF design by pioneering innovative, highly integrated, cost efficient, high efficiency, low power RF solutions for the connectivity and wireless markets. Founded by semiconductor veterans, RFaxis is on the brink of developing a revolutionary phase of wireless semiconductor solutions, that up to now has been considered elusive - and by many - impossible.
RF front-end ICs tailored for Bluetooth, Zigbee apps
RFaxis Inc. has begun sampling its first two devices, both offering a replacement for traditional RF front-end modules, combining all the functionality into a single-die, single-chip that use "breakthrough and disruptive" design methodologies.
RFaxis claims the RFX2401 and RFX2402 are the first fully integrated, single-chip, single-die Bluetooth/Zigbee RFeICs (Front-end Integrated Circuit) to hit the market. The company will be demonstrating the parts at next week's Computex trade show in Taipei, Taiwan.
RFaxis Enters Into Channel Partnerships With Distributors in Taiwan, China, Japan, and Korea
RFaxis, a fabless semiconductor company focused on innovative, next-generation RF solutions for the wireless and connectivity markets, has signed three distribution and rep agreements whereby Alltek Technology Corp., Silicon Technology Co. and ADNET Global Ltd will distribute RFaxis' full line of semiconductor solutions. These partnerships give RFaxis broad coverage and an expanded sales presence in Asia.
Leveraging BiCMOS technologies, along with its own innovative approach and technology designs, RFaxis has developed the world's first patent pending RF Front-end Integrated Circuit (RFeIC). According to Mike Neshat, president and CEO of RFaxis, "Our newly formed channel relationships with these top tier distributors and sales reps in Asia will help RFaxis garner important design wins, as well as allow us to work closely with our customers in the region."
Meeting the challenges of RF wireless design
The world today is increasingly turning to wireless technology for our communication needs, as is evidenced by the widespread use of cell phones, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and myriad behind-the-scenes network backbone technologies. The need for improved performance and price has become critical as we continue to push the boundaries of bandwidth, cost, and power savings - especially with the application of wireless technology to mobile, battery-powered platforms.
Single-Chip RF Front Ends Are Highly Integrated
Two highly integrated single-die, single-chip solutions for Bluetooth, WLAN, Zigbee, and MIMO designs are the first RF front-end integrated circuits (RFeICs), according to the manufacturer. The RFX2401 targets Bluetooth Class 1 and Single-Port Zigbee applications. The chip integrates the power amplifier, LNA, transmit and receive switching circuitry, the associated matching network, and the harmonic filter in a BiCMOS device. The front end's superior performance, high sensitivity and efficiency, low noise, small form factor, and low cost make it well-suited for applications requiring extended range and bandwidth with a potential 10x range increase.
RFaxis touts integrated, single die BiCMOS front ends
Wireless chip startup RFaxis (Irvine, Calif.) has started sampling its first two devices, both offering a replacement for traditional RF front-end modules, combining all the functionality into a single-die, single-chip that use "breakthrough and disruptive" design methodologies.
The chips address Bluetooth, Zigbee and WLAN applications.
RFaxis claims the RFX2401 and RFX2402 are the first fully integrated, single-chip, single-die Bluetooth/Zigbee RFeICs (Front-end Integrated Circuit) to hit the market. The company will be demonstrating the parts at next week's Computex trade show in Taipei, Taiwan.
RFaxis touts integrated, single die BiCMOS front ends
RFaxis, which was founded early 2008, is readying several patent-pending devices utilizing what it claims is a groundbreaking integrated technology and has partnered with STMicroelectronics as its BiCMOS foundry.
"We represent a departure from conventional approaches to RF front-end design solutions," said Neshat. "The beauty of what we are doing is that we truly are delivering a disruptive technology by changing the way engineers and system designers approach their designs. We are simplifying a complex task and are freeing the designer to tackle other challenges."
RFaxis Launches First RF Front-End ICs
RFaxis, Inc. announced that it is readying its first two chips for debut: the RFX2401 and RFX2402. RFaxis' single-chip, single-die, RFX2401 and RFX2402 are intended to replace conventional larger, multi-die front-end modules.
The RFX2401 is the first fully integrated, single-chip, single-die Bluetooth/ Zigbee RFeIC (RF Front-end Integrated Circuit) on the market.
The RFX 2402 WLAN RFeIC is designed for use in 802.11x and dual-port Zigbee applications operating at 2.4GHz.
RF front-end ICs replace modules
The RFX2401 and RFX2402 RFeIC (RF front-end IC) are poised to replace conventional larger, multi-die front-end modules. The RFX2401 is a fully integrated, Bluetooth/Zigbee RFeIC that integrates the PA, LNA, transmit and receive switching circuitry, the associated matching network, and the harmonic filter all in a BiCMOS single-chip, single-die device.
With an integrated power detect circuit, the RFX2401 requires only one external power supply capacitor and the desired band-pass filter for the TX-RX port. Similar to the RFX2401, the RFX2402 WLAN RFeIC is designed for use in 802.11x and Dual-Port Zigbee applications operating at 2.4 GHz.
Wi-Fi Product Watch, May 2009
Fabless semiconductor company, RFaxis, announced the debut of its first two chips, the RFX2401 and the RFX2402. According to RFaxis, both chips offer a replacement for traditional RF front-end modules, combining all the functionality into a single-die, single-chip solution for Bluetooth, Zigbee, and WLAN applications.
The chips leverage BiCMOS technology and are designed to "reduce the complexity of wireless designs, lower manufacturing costs, provide superior performance, and offer improved power efficiency over conventional front-end module technologies."
The RFX2401 and RFX2402 are now sampling.
RFaxis Launches Industry's First RF Front-End Integrated Circuits
RFaxis, an Irvine, California-based fabless semiconductor company focused on innovative, next-generation RF solutions for the wireless and connectivity markets, announced that it is readying its first two chips for debut: the RFX2401 and RFX2402.
"In the midst of a burgeoning wireless market and at a time when the economic climate demands efficient expenditures, RFaxis was founded with one mission in mind: to create highly integrated semiconductor solutions that will reduce cost while simultaneously boosting performance," noted Mike Neshat, president and CEO of RFaxis. "We have effectively reduced the complexity of wireless designs, making our breakthrough technology a compelling value proposition to OEMs."
RFaxis Launches Industry's First RF Front-End Integrated Circuits
Launching in conjunction with Computex, the largest computer exhibition in Asia and the second largest in the world, RFaxis' single-chip, single-die, RFX 2401 and RFX2402 are poised to replace conventional larger, multi-die front-end modules. Leveraging BiCMOS technology, RFaxis' chips are designed to reduce the complexity of wireless designs, lower manufacturing costs via a smaller footprint and reduced bill of materials cost, accelerate time to market, provide superior performance for a competitive advantage, and are ultra low power to offer improved power efficiency over conventional front-end module technologies.
Rfaxis Enters Into Channel Partnerships With Distributors In Taiwan, China, Japan, And Korea
RFaxis, announced that it has signed three distribution and rep agreements whereby Alltek Technology Corp., Silicon Technology Co. and ADNET Global Ltd. will distribute RFaxis' full line of semiconductor solutions. These partnerships give RFaxis broad coverage and an expanded sales presence in Asia.
In order to deliver targeted support and customer service, each distributor partner will focus on a key region. Alltek, one of the largest and most reputable electronic component distributors in Taiwan and China, will handle distribution in those countries while Silicon Technology will distribute RFaxis' solutions to the Japanese market and ADNET will make them available in Korea
Innovations Enable Highly Integrated Semiconductor Solutions That Lower Cost, Improve Performance
RFaxis announced that it has filed seven patents for its wireless semiconductor solutions internationally and with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. These solutions are poised to replace the existing front-end module technologies used in devices that incorporate wireless capabilities.
These newly filed patents highlight RFaxis' revolutionary approach to RF design, which reduces the complexity of wireless designs through highly integrated semiconductor solutions that lower cost while improving performance. Leveraging BiCMOS technologies, along with its own innovative approach and technology designs, RFaxis has developed the world's first patent pending RF Front-end Integrated Circuit (RFeIC).
What A Time To Start A Company!
Any positive economic news is welcome these days, like a seven-course meal to a homeless man. Amidst reports of company downsizings, high unemployment, and disappointing quarterly numbers from Wall Street, credit is due to the folks at RFaxis for the sheer courage to start a company during times like these (see lead news story below). The more conservative among us would find a safe haven for any investment money available, rather than taking the monumental gamble on a new company.
But give credit to Mike Neshat and the rest of his team at RFaxis. They realize that there are always opportunities for good ideas and strong solutions even during the worst of times.
RFaxis Opens Doors For BiCMOS RFICs
RFaxis is now open for business, bringing advanced BiCMOS technology to integrated RF front-end solutions for wireless and high-speed connectivity applications. Based in Irvine, CA, the low-power RF chipmaker teams RF/microwave semiconductor veterans with experience in analog, digital, RF, and microwave technologies. The new firm's Chief Executive Officer, Mike Neshat, explains: "We set out to build highly integrated, cost-effective, high-performance, low-power, plug-and-play solutions for the connectivity and wireless markets. We truly believe that we have created a completely new design architecture that will revolutionize - you could even say - disrupt the entire industry."
Wireless Innovators Band Together To Advance System Design At RFaxis
Innovation and timing are the name of the game when it comes to the explosive growth being experienced in the world of wireless communications. The ubiquitous use of mobile devices including cell phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and laptops are just a few of the areas where adoption of wireless connectivity continues to burgeon. At the heart of wireless innovation is RF technology which functions as both an enabler and gating factor in this dynamic market.
At a time when wireless capabilities are being incorporated into everything from PCs to HVAC solutions, the hurdle faced by manufacturers is the complexity of the RF design process as well as the scarcity of RF design engineers. This growing demand for a steady stream of RF enabled circuit boards to fuel all things wireless, requires a plug and play RF solution that can simply be dropped onto a circuit board.
Wireless Innovators Band Together To Advance System Design At RFaxis
Traditionally, front-end solutions have been developed using either discrete components and/or a front-end module (FEM) format. While this has worked well in many cases, the issues of performance, efficiency, integration, size, cost, and reliability still remain. Up to now, much of the communications industry has focused on the development of FEMs to help reduce cost, create a smaller footprint and streamline development time.
There is, however, another alternative. One can use BiCMOS technology to develop an RF front-end integrated chip. And today, there is a company at the forefront of this RF design revolution doing just this. RFaxis, Inc. an Irvine, California-based company is pioneering innovative, highly integrated, cost efficient, high efficiency, low power RF solutions for the connectivity and wireless markets. Founded by semiconductor veterans, RFaxis is on the cusp of delivering a new breed of wireless semiconductor solutions, that up to now has been considered elusive -- and by many -- impossible.
Wireless Innovators Band Together To Advance System Design At RFaxis
RFaxis is readying several patent-pending solutions utilizing its groundbreaking technology and has partnered with industry leader STMicroelectronics as its BiCMOS foundry. STMicroelectronics is a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics applications.
Leveraging BiCMOS technologies, along with its own innovative approach and technology designs, RFaxis has developed the world's first patent-pending RF Front-end Integrated Circuit (RFeIC). "Using our RF semiconductor solutions, design engineers will soon have access to highly integrated, single-chip, single-die RFeICs that will significantly simplify their design task, substantially improve their performance, drastically reduce the system noise, and lower end product cost," stated Neshat.
Wireless Innovators Band Together To Advance System Design At RFaxis
The RFaxis approach to system design in BiCMOS technology enables a natural foothold in technology platforms including WLAN, MIMO, Bluetooth, Zigbee, WiMAX, WHDI, mobile phones (CDMA2K, WCDMA, EDGE, Evolved EDGE, LTE-3G Long Term Evolution, GSM), and other digital communications systems.
The company will be introducing seven new RFeICs over the next twelve months, at least four of which are slated for production in Q1 2010. These RFeICs will address the growing Bluetooth, WLAN, MIMO, Zigbee, mobile phone, WiMAX, and WHDI markets. By the end of summer 2009, the company expects to have filed over 35 patents.