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Re: [Amps] Re: Amps Digest, Vol 12, Issue 35

To: AMPS <amps@contesting.com>
Subject: Re: [Amps] Re: Amps Digest, Vol 12, Issue 35
From: Bill Fuqua <wlfuqu00@uky.edu>
Date: Thu, 18 Dec 2003 09:24:32 -0500
List-post: <mailto:amps@contesting.com>
After looking at a web site http://www.cree.com/ftp/pub/appnote1.pdf
I realize that all these linearization techniques are used with linear amplifiers to make them more
linear except for one (Envelope Elimination and Restoration)
which is just like the DAF system using a class C amplifier and a modulator to
make the output waveform envelop just like the input.


These techniques are used to not only make a linear amplifier more linear but in some cases to
preserve phase relationship of signals that also have amplitude modulation. The problem with
solid state amplifiers is that the internal and effective internal capacitances change with
voltage causing phase amplitude dependant phase shift. The polar loop linearization system
reduces this effect but does not improve efficiency of amplifiers. Linear amplifier is still needed.
It just does not have to be as linear as the ones we use in HF or VHF SSB work.


Class E amplifiers are so nonlinear that to transmit CW they have to modulate the power supply with
a soft turn on and off to prevent key clicks.


73
Bill wa4lav


At 11:34 PM 12/17/2003 +0000, you wrote:
> ** I have yet to hear a Ham station on SSB who is getting 90% efficiency

Neither have I. But that's not the point of the discussion I was trying to
have. I was just trying to point-out that many hams are unaware of some of
the developments in transmitter design which have taken place since the
1950s, and that there are techniques being commonly used elsewhere which we
could use to our advantage.

As it happens, switching mode amplifiers (class-E, F, and beyond) can work
well to beyond the vhf region, but not as linear amplifiers. There's an
active group using them for CW PAs on the low bands - usually using cheap
general purpose power mosfets. Have a look at the Web.

But, it is entirely practicable to make an ssb transmitter with a switching
mode PA if you go about it the right way! There's a transmitter topology
(patented by the remarkable, and sadly late, Vlad Petrovic)  - polar loop
linearisation - which has been used in the past, and looks like it might be
making a comeback for cellphone base transmitters. A 90% efficient ssb
transmitter at HF could be a reality if someone had the time and backup to
design it.

Vy 73

Chris
GW4DGU


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