Wide Bandgap Amplifier Linearization Navy SBIR FY2008.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2008.1 Topic No.: N08-039 Topic Title: Wide Bandgap Amplifier Linearization Proposal No.: N081-039-0382 Firm: Auriga Measurement Systems LLC 650 Suffolk Street Suite410 Lowell, Massachusetts 01854 Contact: Nick Kingsley Phone: (978) 441-1117 Web Site: www.auriga-ms.com Abstract: 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. Benefits: This program expands the application of the technology to a military environment where multi-tone jamming signals are transmitted in a wide instantaneous bandwidth. By enabling the amplification of multiple frequencies through a single amplifier, total system hardware can be minimized, packaging can become smaller, and system price can be reduced. The technology developed under this program will also support all modern day communication systems, both military and commercial, where digitally modulated signals with a high crest factor are utilized, such as 3rd and 4th generation cellular and wireless LAN applications. Auriga will develop a product line aimed at the commercial communications market: cell phones, wireless networks, point-to-point microwave links, etc. Return