We depend on cell site reliability more than ever before. Many people no longer even bother with a landline, and instead use their mobile phone as their primary phone.  Researchers estimate that at least one in six American households has given up their landline phones.

Remote Radio Unit (RRU) power modules are widely used within cellular communications connecting people and devices with higher bandwidth service. These modules are also essential elements that help ensure cell site reliability.

RRU power modules often require precise current and/or voltage adjustments. In addition, the DC supply to a RRU is susceptible to lightning and power switching events that can harm equipment, which necessitates the addition of robust and extremely reliable surge protection.  Two new PowerNotes from Bourns offer a helpful resource offering adjustment and protection solutions that meet RRU design needs.

For making precise design adjustments, the LTE RRU Power Module PowerNote introduces an efficient and low-cost solution that uses a miniature SMD trimming potentiometer.  Bourns® SMD Trimpot® Trimming Potentiometer (3224W-1-102E) can be added to circuitry to adjust either the voltage output or precision current. This low profile 4 mm trimmer series is sealed for board processing, features a multiturn cermet element and offers a wide range of resistance values.

The DC feed in the RRU can act as a source to deliver lightning surges back into the equipment room. In the Remote Radio Head DC Supply PowerNote, you will learn an optimal solution to protect the DC supply to control these surges. A key reason for protection is that damage can occur to the rectifiers or the whole DC power system, which could also jeopardize or damage other vital equipment installed at the site.

The solution outlined uses the Bourns® Model PTVS6-076C-M SMD Power TVS Diode, which offers bidirectional overvoltage protection for DC power supplies through reliable and superior clamping performance. It supports a standoff voltage of 76 V enabling surge voltages to be clamped at a low level above this voltage. The device handles repeated surges, features reduced inductance and meets relevant IEEE, IEC and ITU standards.

Take advantage of the information in Bourns’ latest PowerNotes. They can help make your next RRU the best it can be through precise adjustments while protecting the sensitive electronics in it from severe overvoltage conditions.