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Understanding the Third-Order Intercept Point of a Cascaded System

Understanding the Third-Order Intercept Point of a Cascaded System

Using the third-order intercept point (IP3) metric, we examine how the nonlinearity of individual gain stages in a cascaded RF system affects the linearity performance of the cascade as a whole.


Using the 1 dB Compression Point to Characterize RF System Nonlinearity

Using the 1 dB Compression Point to Characterize RF System Nonlinearity

Gain compression causes power systems to transition from linear to nonlinear operation. Learn how the 1 dB compression point is used to define the limits of linear operation.


Using Analog Predistortion for RF Power Amplifier Linearization

Using Analog Predistortion for RF Power Amplifier Linearization

We explore the basic concepts of analog predistortion for linearizing RF amplifiers and review some common implementations.


Introduction to the Feed-Forward Linearization of RF Power Amplifiers

Introduction to the Feed-Forward Linearization of RF Power Amplifiers

Learn about an important design technique for high-power RF transmitters: feed-forward linearization, which operates on the principle of distortion signal cancellation.


Four Interesting AM Modulation Circuits You Should Know About

Four Interesting AM Modulation Circuits You Should Know About

This article highlights a selection of circuits used for amplitude modulation, including a switching modulator built with just one diode and a circuit that incorporates a Class C power amplifier.


How to Tune a Class E Amplifier

How to Tune a Class E Amplifier

In this article, we discuss a tuning method designed specifically for Class E RF amplifiers.


Introduction to SLiCAP for Analog Circuit Design

Introduction to SLiCAP for Analog Circuit Design

Learn how to design and verify analog circuits using SLiCAP, a Python-based symbolic simulator program.


Understanding Switching Losses in Class E Amplifiers

Understanding Switching Losses in Class E Amplifiers

In this article, we examine how non-zero switch transition times impact the efficiency of a Class E power amplifier.


Harmonic Suppression in Low-Q Class E Amplifiers

Harmonic Suppression in Low-Q Class E Amplifiers

In this article, we examine the filtering requirements of Class E power amplifiers with less-than-ideal Q-factors.


Unraveling the Design Equations of the Class E Power Amplifier

Unraveling the Design Equations of the Class E Power Amplifier

In this article, we analyze the operation of the Class E amplifier and examine the underlying assumptions of its design equations.


Load Network Response and Design Equations for the Class E Power Amplifier

Load Network Response and Design Equations for the Class E Power Amplifier

Designing a Class E RF amplifier? Learn how to choose the correct level of damping and calculate the optimum component values for your circuit.


Class E Power Amplifiers: Waveform Engineering for Superior Performance

Class E Power Amplifiers: Waveform Engineering for Superior Performance

Class E RF amplifiers are designed to produce switch waveforms with a specific set of characteristics. In this article, we discuss the advantages and limitations of these waveforms.


Introduction to the Class E Power Amplifier

Introduction to the Class E Power Amplifier

Learn how Class E amplifiers improve on the efficiency of Class D amplifiers at RF frequencies.


Understanding the Transformer-Coupled Current-Switching Class D Amplifier

Understanding the Transformer-Coupled Current-Switching Class D Amplifier

In this article, we’ll learn about the transformer-coupled current-switching Class D amplifier. Once we understand its operation, we'll compare its performance with two voltage-switching Class D configurations.


Understanding the Transformer-Coupled Voltage-Switching Class D Amplifier

Understanding the Transformer-Coupled Voltage-Switching Class D Amplifier

In this article, we'll learn how the transformer-coupled voltage-switching Class D amplifier works and highlight some of its advantages.


Understanding Class D Amplifier Non-Idealities: Reactive Loads and Parasitic Capacitances

Understanding Class D Amplifier Non-Idealities: Reactive Loads and Parasitic Capacitances

In this article, we'll learn about two important non-idealities of Class D power amplifiers and how they affect performance.


Understanding the Effect of Diode Reverse Recovery in Class D Amplifiers

Understanding the Effect of Diode Reverse Recovery in Class D Amplifiers

With the help of SPICE simulations, this article explores the impact of diode reverse recovery on Class D amplifier performance.


Why Class D Amplifiers Need Anti-Parallel Diodes

Why Class D Amplifiers Need Anti-Parallel Diodes

Learn how anti-parallel diodes protect Class D amplifiers from the effects of reactive loads and inductive kickback.


Introduction to Switching-Mode Power Amplifiers: Class D Operation

Introduction to Switching-Mode Power Amplifiers: Class D Operation

In this article, we'll learn the basics of switching-mode RF amplifiers in general and Class D amplifiers in particular.


Understanding the Limitations of the Class C Power Amplifier

Understanding the Limitations of the Class C Power Amplifier

In this article, we explore the drawbacks of Class C operation through a performance comparison with Class A and Class B amplifiers.