NEC Corporation announced the development of a highly efficient compact power amplifier module (PAM) for the sub-6GHz frequency band, designed for integration into the radio unit (RU) of 5G base stations.

PAM is an electronic component used to amplify signals for long-distance radio transmission, accounting for approximately 75% of the total power consumption of the RU. By integrating this high-efficiency PAM into the RU, NEC aims to reduce device power consumption and size, thereby contributing to overall energy savings in 5G networks and lowering operational costs for telecom operators.

NEC plans to integrate this PAM into the new RU, scheduled for release in the first half of fiscal year 2026, while also envisioning its promotion as a global standalone product, including its application in base stations from other manufacturers.

New Power Amplifier Module for 5G Base Station Radio Units (Front/Back)

The PAM achieves both high efficiency and compact size by integrating NEC’s expertise in GaN-based high-efficiency circuit design, high-density packaging, and simulation techniques related to load modulation methods—challenges previously deemed insurmountable. Specifically, it boasts a power-added efficiency (PAE) of up to 50%, indicating the proportion of supplied DC power available for amplifying wireless signals. This results in a 10% reduction in power consumption compared to conventional PAMs. Additionally, the product features a compact size of just 10mm x 6mm.

Since the frequency bands used by 5G networks are higher than those of 4G, the coverage area of a single RU is relatively narrow. Therefore, to ensure comprehensive coverage over vast areas and even behind buildings, more RUs need to be deployed. By integrating this PAM into the RU, NEC aims to reduce the power consumption of individual RUs, thereby contributing to overall energy savings for 5G networks and lowering operational costs for telecom operators.

NEC will showcase this PAM at the world’s largest mobile communications exhibition, “MWC Barcelona 2026 (MWC2026),” from March 2 to 5, 2026. At the event, NEC will highlight the PAM’s features, efficient operation, energy-saving effects, and the enhanced design flexibility it brings to equipment.

Looking ahead, NEC will continue to provide technologies that balance energy efficiency and high performance to achieve sustainable network infrastructure.

Some of the technologies employed in the new equipment were sourced from a research project funded by the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) in Japan (JPJ012368G50801).