CML Microcircuits Unveils CMX7146: A Flexible, Low‑Power BPSK Wireless Data Modulator

CML Microcircuits has launched the CMX7146, a versatile data modulator that streamlines transmit‑only BPSK and differential BPSK (PRK, 2PSK) designs.

The device generates precise baseband analogue in‑phase and quadrature signals, with programmable filtering that delivers a high‑accuracy output ready for transmission and suitable for up‑conversion to a user‑chosen RF carrier.

Compared with other BPSK solutions, the CMX7146 delivers superior flexibility, especially for low‑speed BPSK modulation. It offers extensive configuration options for data rates, modulation shaping, and allows users to customize transmit frequencies and channel bandwidths via an external RF modulator. This integrated solution shortens time‑to‑market without requiring specialist expertise.

BPSK is the modulation of choice when durable, long‑range communication is required. Its simplicity to demodulate and power‑efficiency have made it popular in satellite applications—including CubeSats—marine search‑and‑rescue beacons, and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) transmitters.

The CMX7146 supports both raw (bits in, modulation data out) and preloaded (messages in, modulation data out) transmissions and features a transmit‑trigger input for precisely timed data transfers. A power‑amplifier ramping DAC can be used to control transmission bursts, which can be synchronized as part of the transmit sequence. To enhance sensor interfacing and IIoT deployments, the modulator integrates low‑power analogue‑to‑digital converters and four GPIO interfaces.

Built on CML’s proven FirmASIC technology, the CMX7146’s functionality is defined by a small configuration file loaded at power‑up, providing long‑term flexibility and the ability to incorporate future functionality upgrades such as alternative modulation schemes or over‑the‑air protocols.

The new modulator complements CML’s existing wireless data modems for licensed frequency bands. In a typical system, the CMX7146 can be paired with the CMX971 IQ modulator or the CMX973 transceiver, together with a low‑cost flash microcontroller that supplies simple control functions and Function Image storage. The solution supports transmit frequencies from 100 MHz to 1 000 MHz, with higher‑frequency systems achievable using alternative up‑converters. The CMX7146 operates from a single 3.3 V supply and is housed in a compact 48‑lead QFN package.