Test suite helps improves power amplifer efficiency

Modern mobile communication devices use wider bandwidths, multi-input multi-output technology, and higher order orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) modulation, which place added demands on power consumption in wireless components. One of the most power hungry and nonlinear components in a mobile terminal is the PA.

Technologies like CFR, ET and DPD are often used to minimise PA power consumption and reduce nonlinearity. By supporting these technologies, the new N7614B software provides engineers with an easy-to-use and performance validated solution for PA test.

Keysight’s general-purpose MXG, EXG and ESG vector signal generators; PXA, MXA and EXA signal analysers, and 33522B and 33622A arbitrary waveform generators are all supported by the N7614B.

This allows Keysight’s customers to perform PA test within hardware, rather than having to acquire new software. The N7614B software also supports API programming, enabling it to be easily integrated into a customised PA test system.

It provides a flexible I/Q waveform interface that can be Signal Studio generated waveforms, or customer-provided MATLAB waveforms. Engineers use these waveforms as input into the PA when making measurements during test. Based on the results, the PA can then be adjusted to improve its output signal quality using CFR, ET and DPD technologies.