Verification Of Wideband Power Amplifiers

The demand for wideband power amplifiers in the telecommunications industry has surged due to the latest advancements in 5G and satellite technologies. Developing a wideband power amplifier can be a complex task, as it requires meeting certain performance criteria while optimizing efficiency. Parameters like EVM, AM/AM, and AM/PM distortion are crucial for wideband signals. Moreover, testing scenarios often lack signal context, which adds further complexity to demodulation tasks.

To address these challenges, Rohde & Schwarz offers a closed-loop solution that uses the R&S^® SMW200A vector signal generator and the R&S^® FSW spectrum and signal analyzer. This integrated setup supports RF bandwidths up to 2 GHz and RF frequencies up to 44 GHz, with the option to extend the analysis bandwidth further. The key features of the solution include precise EVM assessment regardless of the signal type, real-time digital predistortion for enhanced linearity, and automated parameter sweeps for efficient characterization across frequency and power ranges. These capabilities empower engineers to assess the intricacies of wideband amplifier performance effectively.

In this application note, we explore the functionalities and benefits of this amplifier measurement application, offering insights into nonlinear behavior, DPD solutions, and EVM performance across diverse test signals.