High efficiency low-voltage power amplifier design by second-harmonic manipulation

Abstract

The effect of second-harmonic loading on power amplifiers operated with a low-voltage supply is investigated. Closed-form expressions and design formulas are derived, making use of a simplified device model. The correctness of the assumptions and the validity range of the derived expressions is then verified by means of a full nonlinear analysis method and model: sample low-voltage designs for a power stage are performed, demonstrating the potentials of the proposed methodology. ©2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J RF and Microwave CAE 10: 19–32, 2000.