Linearity-aware design and experimental characterization of multi-stage integrated power amplifiers

The linearity is a crucial requirement of power amplifiers, both in the ground and space segments. At design level, metrics such as AM/AM, AM/PM, and IMDs, which are extracted from 1- and 2-tone characterization, are normally adopted to assess linearity. However, these metrics may not accurately characterize the amplifier's behavior under modulated signal excitation. To address this issue, other system-level metrics such as the NPR have been introduced.

In this activity, the focus is on understanding the different linearity estimations, their relationships, and their impact on design choices, particularly in the case of multi-stage modules.

By improving linearity estimation techniques, designers can create more efficient power amplifiers that provide high-quality signals for a wide range of applications.
The activity involves cooperation with ground and space partners such as ESA, Infineon Technologies, and Huawei.

Erc Sector:

  • PE7_2 Electrical engineering: power components and/or systems
  • PE7_5 (Micro and nano) electronic, optoelectronic and photonic components
  • PE7_6 Communication technology, high-frequency technology

Keywords:

  • Two-tone measurements
  • Doherty power amplifier
  • 5G communication systems
  • Satellite communication