Predistortion Linearization Techniques

Several techniques can be used to minimize the distortion of an RF power amplifier, since the RF power amplifier remains the major contributor of distortion in the communication channel. Among the simplest is to provide an operation of the power amplifier within its linear region. However, efficiency of the power amplifier is significantly degraded by this approach when lower efficiency translates into more energy consumption and higher heat dissipation. Among the most common linearization techniques, predistortion is the most popular due to its ease of use and its possibility to be implemented utilizing analog or digital techniques. Chapter 11 treats the power amplifier from a system perspective, introducing a simple black-box model. It continues describing the fundamentals of predistortion linearization, including the sensitivity of the method to various parameters. Finally, it presents practical predistorters implemented using analog and digital techniques.