History and state-of-the-art in large signal modeling for RF/microwave power amplifier development

An up-to-date summary of relevant large signal (LS) or nonlinear models for power amplifier design is provided, covering a wide range of device types, along with a brief history for the various categories of models. Addressed are compact LS models for III-V as well as silicon FETs and bipolar transistors that are suitable for power amplifier design, utilizing a range of technologies including GaN, GaAs, SiGe and CMOS. Behavioral LS models are considered along with trade-offs that often exist as compared to compact models. Important developments of related technologies that have had significant impact on large signal modeling such as automated small and large signal network analyzers, wafer probe capability, and harmonic balance simulator software are also discussed.