Compact Non-Linear Power Amplifier for Wideband Underwater and Underground Near-Field Magnetic Communication Systems

The paper describes a non-linear power amplifier developed for mobile wideband transceivers of near-field magnetic communication systems. The power amplifier has following parameters: voltage range - up to 200 V; power consumption - up to 200 W; maximum load current - up to 100 A; maximum frequency - 200 kHz; overall dimensions - 100x100x40 mm and weight - ~200 g (without heat sink). Mobile near-field magnetic communication systems equipped with such amplifier are able to provide a voice communication range up to 150 m. The systems can be employed in constructing of various underwater and underground communication networks, for example, in mines or for divers. Results of near-field communication system field testing with the developed non-linear power amplifier are shown. The authors propose a simple algorithm for the main parameters of the power amplifier and the transmitter antenna selection.