The Era of Connectivity

In today's digital world, connectivity is more than just a buzzword—it's a necessity. As we stand on the brink of the 5G era and look towards 6G and beyond, RF (radio frequency) technology has become a linchpin for seamless communication and data transfer. From cloud to edge, the demand for efficient, high-performance RF solutions is driving innovation in ways we hadn't previously imagined.

One groundbreaking collaboration that is pushing the envelope of what's possible in RF technology is between GlobalFoundries (GF) and Falcomm, an emerging leader in high-efficiency RF and millimeter-wave integrated circuits.

The Power of Partnership

Falcomm, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, has partnered with GF to blaze trails in the RF industry. Their innovative solutions, particularly in RF power amplifier (PA) and front-end module design, have been met with industry-wide acclaim. Driven by Dr. Edgar Garay's pioneering research at Georgia Tech, Falcomm's patented Dual-Drive™ technology stands at the heart of this innovation, promising breakthrough performance in power-added efficiency (PAE), output power, linearity, and bandwidth.

Their partnership is not just about technology but also about strategic positioning globally, as Falcomm's RFIC designs are entirely US-based. This domestic focus ensures supply chain resilience—a crucial factor for industries like defense and aerospace.

Technology on Display

At the upcoming International Microwave Symposium (IMS) 2025 in San Francisco, both companies are set to showcase their latest advancements. They plan to unveil several key products that highlight the prowess of their collaborative efforts:

• FCM1401: This Ku-band power amplifier, built on GF’s 130NSX bulk CMOS process, offers significant performance in frequency (12.5GHz – 16GHz), with a PAE of 50%, output power of 20 dBm, and a gain of 23 dB, making it ideal for tactical and commercial applications.

• FCM2801 & FCM3901: Operating at 28 GHz and 39 GHz respectively, these power amplifiers manufactured on GF's 45RFSOI platform are tailored for the 5G New Radio (NR) applications, offering enhanced power density, efficiency, and thermal performance.

• Future Ready PAs: The coming year will see the release of a new 39 GHz PA on GF's 22FDX+ platform and an enhanced 28 GHz PA on the 45RFSOI platform, both designed for optimal integration and performance in advanced 5G applications.

Implications for the Industry

The innovations from GlobalFoundries and Falcomm are setting new standards for the RF industry. Their focus on efficiency, integration, and performance suggests a transformative impact on sectors reliant on fast, reliable, and efficient communication networks. Given the rapid escalation of data consumption and the push toward edge computing, the demand for such advanced RF technologies is expected to soar.

Moreover, the collaboration exemplifies a shift in how traditional boundaries in semiconductor manufacturing are being reevaluated. By leveraging each other's strengths, GF and Falcomm are not only creating state-of-the-art technologies but also strengthening the infrastructure necessary for sustaining growth and innovation in RF applications.

A Call to Connect at IMS 2025

As IMS 2025 approaches, the stakes for connectivity are higher than ever, and all eyes are on the advancements that will be on display. Falconmm and GlobalFoundries invite industry experts, partners, and potential collaborators to their booths to explore how their solutions can amplify RF performance with unprecedented efficiency and linearity.

Those eager to learn more or engage with the team can reach out through Falcomm's contact channels, ensuring that the conversation—and the evolution of RF technology—continues beyond the symposium.

With collaboration at its core, this initiative promises not only to propel RF technology forward but also to redefine its role in tomorrow's connected world. Whether you are a seasoned expert or a curious observer in the world of RF, this is a partnership to watch as we move into a more connected and optimized future.