A fully integrated low-power class-E power amplifier for short range communication

Abstract

This paper presents the advantages and drawbacks of designing different power amplifier types. The study also compares the drain efficiencies of the current-source and switch-type power amplifiers. The appropriate power amplifier needs to be chosen for low-power short range data communication. A fully integrated low-power class-E power amplifier at 869 MHz for short range communication is designed. The power amplifier is integrated using a 0.18 μm CMOS technology. Post-layout simulation results show the effectiveness of the power amplifier. The power amplifier consumes only 487.2 μW at 0.2 V supply voltage. The drain efficiency of the power amplifier is 55% at -5.8 dBm output power for 50 Ω load.