FAQ: Operating SOI Switches with a Single Supply

Q.

Many of the RF and Microwave SOI switches require dual voltage supplies (VDD and VSS). Which of these may be operated with only a single positive supply (VDD)?

A.

Certain switches from the SOI portfolio may be operated using only a single positive VDD supply, and with the VSS pin grounded.

Operating the switch in such a manner has minimal effects on the small signal performance (insertion loss, isolation and return loss). However, there may be differences in the large signal (linearity - compression, intermodulation distortion, and power handling) and transient response (switching speed and settling time).

As of March 2020, only the following SOI parts can be used with a single supply: HMC1118, ADRF5019, ADRF5020, ADRF5021, ADRF5040, ADRF5250.

Note:

• Please refer to the application note, AN-1440, for more details on single supply operation. This app note also contains single supply performance on the HMC1118.
• Please refer to the datasheet for the single supply performance of the ADRF5019.
• The ADRF5250 has an integrated negative voltage generator. User may choose to enable or disable the NVG. Please refer to the datasheet.
• We are working on updating the other datasheets with single supply performance data.