Design of Input Matching Networks for Class-E RF Power Amplifiers

Class-E power amplifiers have high efficiency, which makes them attractive in modern wireless mobile communication systems. There are several techniques and approaches developed solely to design the output load networks of such amplifiers to shape the RF power device’s output voltage and current for minimum power loss. However, little attention is brought to the design of the input matching network and to the device bias conditions, with their effects on the overall circuit performance. This paper attempts to discuss these topics through a systematic design and simulation approach for a typical 5 watt class-E power amplifier operating at 150 MHz.