A simple method based on AM-AM, AM-PM measurements and CDMA signal statistics for RF power amplifier characterization

In this paper, a simple and time saving method to characterize RF power amplifiers involved in CDMA systems is proposed. The presented technique is based on only few continuous wave (CW) measurements selected in relation to a statistical analysis of the dynamic input power. A complex power series model, extracted from these measurements, is used to predict ACPR. Using a CDMA2000 test signal, the amplifier ACPR estimated with this method is in good agreement with direct spectrum measurement. Consequently, the proposed method allows an accurate and complete amplifier distortion characterization, which is less expensive and less time consuming than dynamic characterization or complete CW measurements.