The Linearity-Efficiency Compromise

This article attempts to improve the average efficiency and linearize the work-horse of RF power amplification- the class-B (or class AB) PA-relying, for example, on predistortion, dynamic load modulation or ET. Nevertheless, whenever higher efficiencies are desired, the current-mode class-B PA must be replaced by switchedmode PAs (for example, class-E or class-F), completely modifying the paradigm of RF amplification. In fact, as these are saturated circuits, they cannot respond to excitations of variable amplitude; and thus the original signal envelope must be restored by operating the PA as an AM modulator via dynamic supply adaptation. A good example of this is the EER arrangement.

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