Optimum component values for a lossy Class E power amplifier

Abstract

The Class E power amplifier offers a means to increase the battery efficiency in wireless terminals. The losses can be taken into account by solving the drain waveforms for a switch having a non-zero on resistance. In this paper a new analysis formulation is presented in which the input values (P/sub OUT/, V/sub DD/ and R/sub ON/) are combined into one parameter k. Then, the efficiency and optimum component values for a lossy Class E amplifier can be solved with relatively simple calculations. The analysis reveals that there is a maximum value for switch losses that can be accepted in order to operate in the Class E mode. The results of the analysis are presented in plots providing initial component values for practical Class E power amplifier design. The validation simulation results show excellent match with the calculated values.