How to Maximize Power Amplifier Efficiency and Linearity

Get quote
PNA-X Network Analyzer
+ PNA-X Network Analyzer
PNA-X Network Analyzer
+ PNA-X Network Analyzer

Maximizing power amplifier efficiency and linearity with a VNA

Maximizing power amplifier (PA) linearity, while maintaining efficiency, requires development of a digital predistortion (DPD) model. To provide optimal performance, the DPD technique needs wideband, calibrated vector signal generation and signal analysis.

Engineers use a vector signal generator and a vector network analyzer (VNA) with software-enabled wideband vector signal analysis capabilities to optimize PA efficiency and linearity on a single testbed. The VNA's multi-receiver architecture provides fully-calibrated signal generation at the PA input.

Power amplifier efficiency and linearity solution

Maximizing efficiency while maintaining linearity for PAs requires the use of DPD linearization. The Keysight PNA-X network analyzer and modulation distortion (MOD) software application deliver a configuration that results in exceptionally low residual error vector magnitude and reduces the number of test setups required to measure nonlinear distortion. Optimize PA performance by using vector-corrected EVM measurement data to develop DPD models on a single test setup. The IQ bandwidth software further allows the engineer to compare EVM measurements from the MOD software to a conventional EVM constellation on the VSA software platform. The Keysight PNA is the only VNA platform to provide fully error-corrected vector signal analysis.
Get quote

See demo of power amplifier linearity test

Explore products in our PA efficiency and linearity solution

Related use cases

How to Benchmark 5G Devices

Benchmarking a 5G device means subjecting it to a wide range of network signaling and radio channel conditions. Learn how to set up a test to emulate real-world network conditions and equipment to stress your 5G device and verify its performance.

Learn more

How to Test 5G NR MIMO

MIMO characterization requires a channel emulation system to measure fading and multipath. Learn how to set up EVM measurements for a 2x2 5G NR MIMO signal in the 28 GHz FR2 band and debug similar emerging high-band mmWave applications.

Learn more

How to Emulate Massive MIMO End-to-End

Emulating massive MIMO requires complex verification of full-stack operations and proper handling of network traffic. Learn how to replicate real-world scenarios and test your system end-to-end using beamformed user equipment emulation.

Learn more

contact us logo

Get in touch with one of our experts

Need help finding the right solution for you?

Contact us