The Need

Current outphasing radio-frequency (RF) power amplifiers require multiple RF inputs, making them complex and costly. The generation of multiple modulated RF signals increases power dissipation and cost, limiting their attractiveness for widespread use. There is a need for a simplified solution that reduces complexity and cost while maintaining high efficiency and broadband operation.

The Technology

Developed by researchers at The Ohio State University, this technology introduces a simplified outphasing modulation driver that performs two-step phase modulation directly from a single RF input. Utilizing two transistors operated in class-B with different gate biases, the circuit is diode-free and does not require baseband signals or a local oscillator at carrier frequencies. This innovation minimizes power dissipation at backoff when auxiliary PAs are not activated, enhancing the feasibility of outphasing amplifiers.

Benefits/Advantages

• Reduced complexity and cost
• Higher backoff efficiency
• Wider broadband operation
• Minimal power dissipation at backoff
• Enhanced feasibility for implementation in various RF applications