Design and analysis of class E power amplifier for wireless communications

Abstract

This project aims to design a high-efficiency high-frequency class E power amplifier for telecommunication applications. Several approaches in amplifier design and modeling were developed. Analytical approximations based on both zero and nonzero transistor “ON” resistance assumption were developed. With non-zero “ON” resistance, the output performance of the amplifier can be approximated more accurately and the power loss due to the non-zero “ON” resistance can be estimated. This study further found that the finite DC choke inductor should be included so as to provide better flexibility in the class E power amplifier designs. A method for preventing negative current flowing through the finite DC choke inductor was also proposed. Based on the above analysis, the output power of a push-pull class E power amplifier was obtained and the required circuit components values were calculated. The calculated characteristics of the amplifiers were validated with PSpice and Microwave Office simulation and good agreements were obtained.