CML's flexible BPSK wireless data modulator simplifies the design of licensed frequency bands

     CML Microcircuits has announced the CMX7146, a flexible data modulator that simplifies the design of transmit-only solutions using BPSK (binary phase-shift keying) and differential BPSK modulation (also known as PRK, phase reversal keying or 2PSK). Powered by a 3.3V single supply, it is delivered in a space-saving 48-pin QFN package.

     The CMX7146 generates accurate baseband analog in-phase and orthogonal signals through programmable signal filtering, resulting in highly accurate signals that are fully transferable and suitable for up-conversion of user-selected RF carriers.

     The CMX7146 is more flexible than other BPSK solutions and can better support low-speed BPSK modulation. It offers a wide range of configurations in terms of data rate and modulation shaping, while enabling users to customize the send frequency and channel bandwidth with an external RF modulator.

     In contrast, other products on the market force customers to develop their own discrete solutions, which require expertise in RF and DSP programming. The CMX7146 provides an integrated solution that reduces time-to-market without the need for such expertise.

     David Brooke, product Manager for Wireless Voice and Data at CML, said: "We are seeing a lot of interest in satellite iot applications where very remote devices can be monitored and relatively small amounts of information sent. For these capabilities, the newly released CMX7146 will provide developers with a fast and easy solution to secure the launcher."

     When persistent remote communication is required, BPSK technology is often used, and its advantages include relatively simple demodulation and extremely high power efficiency. These features have made BPSK widely used in satellite applications (including, more recently, CubeSats), maritime search and rescue (SAR) beacons, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) transmitters, and more.

     The CMX7146 supports raw (bit input, modulated data output) and preloaded (message input, modulated data output) transmission, and has a send trigger input function to achieve precisely timed data transmission. Power amplifier ramping analog-to-digital converters (Dacs) can be used to control transmission bursts and can be synchronized as part of a transmission sequence. To increase the flexibility of sensor interfaces and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions, the CMX7146 also integrates a low-power analog-to-digital converter and four general purpose input output (GPIO) interfaces.

     The new device is based on CML's proven FirmASIC® technology, where device functionality is determined by a small profile loaded at power-on. By taking advantage of upgrades such as future new modulation schemes or wireless protocols offered by CML, you can increase the flexibility and life cycle of the end product.

     The new modulator complements CML's existing portfolio of wireless data modems for licensed frequency bands. In a typical system, the CMX7146 can be combined with CML's CMX971 IQ modulator or CMX973 transceiver and a low-cost flash memory microcontroller to provide simple control functions as well as Function Image™ storage. This solution supports transmission frequencies from 100MHz to 1000MHz, and can support higher frequency systems by using other upconverter solutions.