A linear, highly-efficient, class-J handset power amplifier utilizing GaAs HBT technology

摘要

This paper reports design techniques for a linear handset PA with high efficiency, representing a novel solution for the converged PA module architecture, allowing it to achieve a better performance than the hybrid architecture while reducing the cost and size. The techniques enable a single PA to operate in multiple modes (2G/GSM, 2.5G/EDGE, 3G/W-CDMA and 4G/LTE) with no reconfiguration, combining the operation of at least two PAs from the hybrid architecture (one for 2G/2.5G and another for 3G/4G). The solution applies class-J, to achieve higher efficiency and maintain linearity at the linear modes (2.5G/EDGE, 3G/W-CDMA and 4G/LTE), integrated with the utilization of GaAs HBT technology to allow more linearity enhancements. This work introduces the first application of class-J using GaAs HBT in a handset PA.