High linearity GaN HEMT power amplifier with pre-linearization gate diode

A high linearity MMIC RF power amplifier is reported in the AlGaN/GaN HEMT technology. In order to obtain high linearity, a pre-linearization gate diode is added at the input to compensate for the nonlinear input capacitance C/sub gs/ of the GaN HEMT device. Another single-ended class B power amplifier without the gate diode is also designed for comparison. The circuit with the pre-linearization gate diode demonstrates at least 4dB improvement on 3rd order intermodulation distortion (IMD/sub 3/) performance over the one without the diode over the useful power range in two-tone measurement.