How to select RF Power Amplifiers
Power Amplifiers convert low power high frequency signals to high power signals. This is usually used in the transmit chain to amplify the signal before it is sent out via an antenna.
The key specifications to look for in an rf power amplifier are:
Frequency (MHz): This is the frequency range at which a power amplifier operates.
Power Compression (dBm or W): P1dB is one of the key parameters for a power amplifier. It is the point at which the input signal is amplified by an amount, which is 1 dB below the small signal gain of the device. Beyond this power the gain of the device no longer increases linearly as the input power is raised.
Gain (dB): The gain of a power amplifiers is the ratio of output to input power or amplitude. This is measured in dB.
Package Type: Based on the required application the package type for the power amplifier can be selected - There are a number of different package types available - Connectorized, Surface Mount, Die etc.
