Wide Bandgap Amplifier Linearization

This program addresses the challenges associated with power amplifiers used under multi-tone drive where high operating efficiency is required without adding false signals or errors (intermodulation distortion, IMD) to the output signal. The goal is to reduce all IMD levels below -30dBc without sacrificing the efficiency of the amplifier, under a signal drive condition of up to eight simultaneous tones in L-C bands with an instantaneous bandwidth of 500MHz. A broadband power amplifier technology that covers 3,4,5:1 bandwidths with an output of 25-100W will also be addressed as the basis of the project. Auriga Measurement Systems and BAE have teamed to develop a high efficiency linear amplifier. To achieve this goal, an accurate Gan HEMT device model will be created that is capable of modeling the wide bias voltage range and non-linearity of the device. Once the accuracy of the model is proven, a 50W amplifier that operates from 1-3GHz will be designed. Various techniques will be investigated for improving the amplifier efficiency, including envelope tracking, pre-distortion, and using a Doherty amplifier. Once an adequate model is developed, the foundation will be laid for developing sophisticated EW technologies, including jammers and “spoofers”, for this and other military programs.