A linear efficient EBS amplifier

Abstract

Linear highly efficient RF amplifiers are of considerable interest in many applications where multisignal interference must be minimized, and the power and cooling budget limited. This paper describes the design and evaluation of a grid modulated EBS amplifier with superior linearity and efficiency. Modifications to the grid structure are described which result in an extremely linear transfer characteristic under efficient operating conditions. The resulting amplifier exhibits third order intermodulation distortion of -36DBC at an efficiency of 45% and -25DBC at an efficiency of 60%. Single signal results at 50MHz are 300 watts CW at an overall device efficiency of 72% and a device gain of 26DB.