An enhanced broadband class-J mode power amplifier for 5G smart meter applications

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Wireless Communication
• Power Amplifiers

Background:

• Smart meters in the Internet of Things (IoT) demand 5G technology for efficient data communication.
• Power amplifiers (PAs) are critical for communication system efficiency and bandwidth.
• Class-J mode PAs offer high efficiency and linearity over wide bandwidths.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a Class-J mode PA design methodology for 5G smart grid applications.
• To meet the bandwidth requirements for advanced metering infrastructure (AMI).
• To utilize a CGH40010F-GaN device operating at 3.5 GHz.

Main Methods:

• Designing matching networks (M.Ns) for Class-J operation using load-pull simulations.
• Analyzing and designing lumped element matching networks with the ADS EDA tool.
• Employing a CGH40010F-GaN device for the power amplifier.

Main Results:

• Achieved maximum drain efficiency (D.E) of 82% and power added efficiency (PAE) of 67%.
• Obtained a 13 dB small-signal gain and 40 dBm output power at 3.5 GHz.
• Demonstrated a 7 dB power gain over a 400 MHz bandwidth with a 28 V supply.

Conclusions:

• The proposed Class-J PA design meets 5G smart grid requirements.
• Further fine-tuning of matching networks can enhance efficiency and bandwidth.
• The design is suitable for 5G smart meter and smart grid applications.