Power amplifiers

Learn the fundamental parameters of power amplifiers for RF and millimeter-wave applications, taking into account the increasing frequency of electronic circuits dedicated to telecommunication applications (wireless communicating objects, satellite embedded systems, etc.).
The module includes a design project for a 2.4GHz power amplifier based on COTS-type components. The aim is to design an amplifier that meets a given specification (frequency, power, gain) with the best possible efficiency. The ADS software is used for this project, which breaks down as follows:

DC study: transistor polarization
Small-signal dynamic study: impedance matching over 50 Ohms (ideal then real elements, interconnections)
Large-signal dynamic study: output power, PAE
Layout design
PCB design, component soldering
VNA measurements, spectrum analyzer, powermeter.

Power amplifiers

Ch. 1: Basics of RF and microwave power amplifiers
- Powers involved
- S parameters
- Concept of power matching
- Definition of linear parameters (power gains, PAE)
- Definition of non-linear parameters (CP1, IP3, ACPR)
- Stability criteria

Ch. 2: Operating classes 2: Operating classes
- Sinusoidal classes (A, AB, B, C)
- Switching classes (D, E, F)

Ch. 3: Linearization techniques
- Analog predistortion
- Feedback
- Feedforward
- EER
- Digital predistortion

Ch. 4: Design and measurement tools
- Linear and nonlinear simulations
- Linear and nonlinear characterizations