High efficiency RF linear amplifier design proposed for Eagle

AMSAT members Allen Katz, K2UYH and Marc Franco, N2UO have designed a VHF, high-efficiency, class-E, RF power amplifier with a DC to RF efficiency of 86.8%.

Their innovative design is based on silicon carbide (SiC) metal-semiconductor field effect transistors, or MESFETs.

The design was presented in a paper at the IEEE International Microwave Symposium in Hawaii.

It is now available on-line: http://www.cree.com/products/wireless_docs.htm titled
'Class-E Silicon Carbide VHF Power Amplifier' (June 5, 2007)

The final amplifier efficiency was measured at around 86 to 88% with this number holding quite well at almost any drain voltage or output power. This type of amplifier is under consideration for the envelope elimination and restoration linear amplifier planned for the AMSAT Eagle satellite.

Marc, N2UO