RF Micro Devices announced the release of the RFFM6201, a 2.4GHz band single-chip Zigbee front-end module (FEM) featuring an integrated power amplifier, low noise amplifier, and diversity switch.

RFMD's 2.4GHz RFFM6201 delivers industry-leading current consumption (170mA at rated power) and high-power performance (+23dBm) for Home Area Networking (HAN)/Smart Energy applications. The energy efficient RFFM6201 is pin-for-pin compatible with RFMD's popular RF6555 and offers 5dB higher output power, enabling customers to increase power output and range without requiring changes in product layout.

Rohan Houlden, general manager of RFMD's Wireless Connectivity business unit, said, "RFMD's expanding FEM portfolio supports our customers' rapid ZigBee product launches while reducing component count, size, cost, and power consumption. RFMD's RFFM6201 ZigBee FEM is specifically optimized for Smart Energy applications, including smart meters, energy usage control, or 'demand response,' and HAN devices. Beyond Smart Energy, the RFFM6201 is also suited for industrial, wireless sensing, and control applications requiring low power, high performance and assured reliability."

ZigBee Smart Energy is the world's leading standard for home area networks (HAN) used by smart grid programs to boost energy management and efficiency in homes around the world.

From January 10 to January 13, 2012 at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), RFMD will be showcasing its ZigBee and Smart Energy solutions in the ZigBee Alliance Pavilion in booth 21318J, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.