Design and modelling challenges for advanced class-S digital transmitters

This paper discusses design and modelling challenges for advanced class-S transmitters. Class-S amplifiers require specific design and modelling steps due to the broadband transmission of Δ-Σ-modulated signals to be amplified by a switch-mode stage, especially for high bit rates related to 2 GHz operation and high output powers at ≥10W. Despite of the broadband approach specific to digital operation specific microwave issue have to be considered to enable efficient data transmission to the antenna.

[1]  P. Asbeck,et al.  Bandpass delta-sigma class-S amplifier , 2000 .

[2]  Robert Weigel,et al.  Basic Nonlinear Analysis of Class-S Power Amplifiers based on GaN Switching Transistors , 2009, 2009 German Microwave Conference.

[3]  R. Quay,et al.  GaN devices for communication applications: evolution of amplifier architectures , 2010, International Journal of Microwave and Wireless Technologies.

[4]  R. Leberer,et al.  An AlGaN/GaN class-S amplifier for RF-communication signals , 2008, 2008 IEEE MTT-S International Microwave Symposium Digest.

[5]  W. Heinrich,et al.  A simplified switch-based GaN HEMT model for RF switch-mode amplifiers , 2009, 2009 European Microwave Integrated Circuits Conference (EuMIC).

[6]  W. Heinrich,et al.  Switch-mode amplifier ICs with over 90% efficiency for Class-S PAs using GaAs-HBTs and GaN-HEMTs , 2008, 2008 IEEE MTT-S International Microwave Symposium Digest.

[7]  W. Bronner,et al.  High Efficiency Digital GaN MMIC Power Amplifiers for Future Switch-Mode Based Mobile Communication Systems , 2009, 2009 Annual IEEE Compound Semiconductor Integrated Circuit Symposium.

[8]  O. Ambacher,et al.  Integrated-Schottky-diode GaN HFETs for high-efficiency digital PA MMICs at 2 GHz , 2010, The 40th European Microwave Conference.