Designing Matching Networks with the Real Frequency Technique

Designing matching networks for power amplifiers can be challenging. Load-pull measurements are generally used to derive targets for the matching networks to be designed. However, the intrinsic load-line of a transistor can be mapped exactly to the external load line required, assuming linearity. With this capability, the information available in the literature on ideal intrinsic load lines can be used efficiently to set targets for the matching networks to be designed. Controlling the intrinsic load-line for a variety of amplifiers at the fundamental-frequencies, as well as the second and third harmonic frequencies with practical matching networks will be considered. Broadband designs are developed using the real-frequency technique.