Patent ID: 6437641
Filing Date: 2002-08-20
Classification: H03F,H03G,H04L

Abstract:
A method for improving the efficiency and the dynamic range of a power amplifier operated with signals having a large peak-to-average ratio, comprising:a) determining a reference level, above which at least a portion of the magnitude of an input signal being a modulated signal that is input to said power amplifier, or a baseband waveform that is used to generate said modulated signal, is defined as an excess input signal; b) continuously sampling said magnitude of said input signal, for detecting an excess input signal; c) if no excess input signal is detected, supplying a lower level of operating voltage to said power amplifier, said lower level of operating voltage being essentially constant and sufficient to effectively amplify input signals having a magnitude below said reference level; and d) whenever an excess input signal is detected, supplying a higher level of operating voltage to said power amplifier, said higher level of operating voltage essentially tracks the magnitude of said excess input signal, thereby being sufficient to effectively amplify input signals having a magnitude above said reference level.