Highly integrated RF frontend module for high SHF wide-band massive MIMO in 5G, and switching-mode amplifiers beyond 4G

In order to realize a massive MIMO concept, small size and low power consumption over the wide-band frequency range are challenges for RF frontends module. This paper describes a highly integrated RF frontend module for high SHF wide-band massive MIMO in 5G. The RF frontend module is designed with 0.15 µm GaAs process and assembled on 5 × 5 mm2 QFN package. By employing Doherty amplifier configuration using a parasitic output capacitance neutralization technique, it achieves low power consumption over wide frequency band. The integrated frontend architecture is an attractive solution for massive MIMO systems in 5G, and will contribute to 5G deployment. Additionally, the use of digital techniques is attractive future option beyond 4G (toward 5G), and amplifiers with them potentially lead to reduction of power consumption. Some prototyped switching-mode amplifiers are also presented.