Multi-band, multi-mode RF transmit amplifier system with separate signal paths for linear and saturated operation

• Main Authors: PARKHURST RAY, CHEN EDWARD, MUELLER WILLIAM CARROL
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 19.02.2013
• Subjects: ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS; BASIC ELECTRIC ELEMENTS; ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE; ELECTRICITY; TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION; TRANSMISSION

A device includes: an input for receiving an RF input signal having a signal format selected among a plurality of signal formats, including at least one signal format to be linearly amplified, and at least another signal format be amplified in saturation; at least a first and a second output; a first amplification path from the input to the first output that includes a first amplifier that operates in a linear amplification mode with respect to the RF input signal; a second amplification path from the input port to the second output that includes the first amplifier, and a second amplifier that operates in saturated amplification with respect to the RF input signal; and a path selection device that selectively passes the RF input signal through the first amplification path or the second amplification path in response to the selected signal format of the RF input signal.