Efficient Linear Broadband RF Power Amplifier Technology (2007029)

This abstract is prepared in response to DoD SBIR Solicitation 2007-2, Topic No. N07-155. The new generation of tactical communication system will have capabilities to adapt its power amplifier operating mode to specific operational needs for multiples of functions linking multiples of platforms The objective of the proposed program is to establish a design baseline for linear power amplifiers operating multiple functions over the frequency band of 2 MHz to 2 GHz. The proposed amplifier will be of a MMIC design fabricated by the novel technology of wide bandgap devices. In addition to the power output design goal of up to 200 watts, the Phase 1 effort will also include analysis of non-linear property of the amplifier and applicable linearization processes. Hittite will then identify the optimum process for MMIC implementation of the amplifier and provide modeling results of the core technology demonstrating the RF, DC, and thermal characteristics of the amplifier. Along with these simulations and analyses, a roadmap showing the insertion of the technology into the transmitter shall be delivered as a Phase II Plan. As an option, a baseline GaN MMIC shall be designed and prepped for processing.