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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.


Introduction to the Class C Power Amplifier

Introduction to the Class C Power Amplifier

This article examines the operation of the Class C power amplifier and how it compares to its Class A and Class B counterparts.


Understanding Inductors With Gapped Cores

Understanding Inductors With Gapped Cores

In this article, we explore the advantages of introducing an air gap to the magnetic core of an inductor.


Controlling and Preventing Core Saturation in Inductors

Controlling and Preventing Core Saturation in Inductors

Core saturation is one of the main limitations on the design of magnetic components. In this article, we explore how different factors—particularly the number of turns—impact the core saturation of an inductor.


Using Permeability to Understand Magnetic Core Saturation

Using Permeability to Understand Magnetic Core Saturation

In this article, we learn about core saturation and why it should be avoided in most applications. We then examine how different ways of defining permeability can help us predict the saturation flux density of a magnetic core.


Understanding How Laminated Cores Reduce Eddy Current Loss

Understanding How Laminated Cores Reduce Eddy Current Loss

Eddy currents are a major loss mechanism in transformer cores. This article provides both in-depth and simplified explanations of how core laminations work to mitigate the effects of eddy currents.


Understanding Dimensional Resonance in High-Frequency Magnetic Cores

Understanding Dimensional Resonance in High-Frequency Magnetic Cores

In this article, we explore the effect of dimensional resonance on the magnetic field distribution in high-frequency ferrite cores.


Understanding the Effect of Eddy Currents on the High-Frequency Behavior of Magnetic Cores

Understanding the Effect of Eddy Currents on the High-Frequency Behavior of Magnetic Cores

The formation of eddy currents can cause problems for magnetic cores at high frequencies. To mitigate these undesirable effects, we first need to understand them.


How to Analyze Transmission Line Transformers: The Easy Way and the Hard Way

How to Analyze Transmission Line Transformers: The Easy Way and the Hard Way

In this article, we explore two different methods for analyzing the impedance transformation ratio of a transmission line transformer.


Understanding the Limits of VNA Calibration

Understanding the Limits of VNA Calibration

In this article, we compare the scope of factory and user calibration for vector network analyzers (VNAs). We then learn about the types of errors that calibration techniques can't correct.


Introduction to VNA Calibration Techniques

Introduction to VNA Calibration Techniques

Learn the basics of how vector network analyzer (VNA) calibration techniques correct measurement errors.


How to Estimate and Enhance the Dynamic Range of a Vector Network Analyzer

How to Estimate and Enhance the Dynamic Range of a Vector Network Analyzer

This article explains how to estimate the dynamic range a vector network analyzer (VNA) needs for a given measurement, then discusses four techniques for boosting the dynamic range to the required level.


Understanding the Significance of Dynamic Range and Spurious-Free Dynamic Range

Understanding the Significance of Dynamic Range and Spurious-Free Dynamic Range

In this article, we investigate two metrics used to characterize the performance of RF test and measurement systems.


Understanding the Inner Workings of Vector Network Analyzers

Understanding the Inner Workings of Vector Network Analyzers

In this article, we explore how the signal source and receivers of a VNA enable its function.


Understanding the Guanella Transmission Line Balun

Understanding the Guanella Transmission Line Balun

Learn how bifilar coils can be used to build Gustav Guanella’s classic RF balun.


Understanding RF Power Measurement Errors in Directional Couplers

Understanding RF Power Measurement Errors in Directional Couplers

Directional couplers are valuable tools for testing RF systems. However, the finite directivity of these devices can cause measurement uncertainty. Learn more in this article.


Introduction to Transmission Line Transformers and the Bifilar Coil

Introduction to Transmission Line Transformers and the Bifilar Coil

Learn how a bifilar coil can be used to design transformers for high-frequency RF applications.


Understanding the Non-Idealities of Magnetically Coupled RF Transformers

Understanding the Non-Idealities of Magnetically Coupled RF Transformers

In this article, we’ll learn about the limitations of magnetically coupled transformers in RF applications by modeling the devices' high-frequency non-idealities.


Balun Basics and Practical Performance Parameters

Balun Basics and Practical Performance Parameters

Learn about the balun, a special type of transformer used in mixers, amplifiers, and signaling.