The MAX2840/MAX2841 low-cost linear power amplifiers (PAs) operate in the 5GHz to 6GHz band. The PAs are designed for high gain and high linearity, which makes them ideal for use in IEEE 802.11a OFDM systems. The MAX2840 delivers +15dBm output power, and the MAX2841 delivers +18dBm output power. The devices integrate a power detector that provides over 15dB dynamic range and 1.0dB accuracy. With the detector circuit built in, an automatic level control (ALC) function can be easily implemented. The PAs also feature an external bias control function. The idle current can be adjusted through an external DAC to improve efficiency at reduced output powers while maintaining sufficient ACPR and EVM performance. As a result, the highest possible efficiency is maintained at all power levels. The MAX2840/MAX2841 operate over a single +2.7V to +3.6V power-supply range. An on-chip shutdown feature reduces operating current to less than 10A, eliminating the need for an external supply switch.