Recent advances in CDMA power amplifier module developments

In this paper, the recent advances of CDMA power amplifier module developments for wireless handset applications are reviewed. Technology choices among GaAs, SiGe and PHEMT for linear PA designs are compared. The trade-offs of circuit design and module approaches are discussed in detail. The measured performances of some representative state of the art power amplifier modules are presented. The high integration of more front-end components and functionalities into the power amplifier module and the increasing demand for high linear efficiency at lower output power has become a widely acceptable trend.