A mathematical characterization and analysis of a feedforward circuit for CDMA applications

Feedforward is known to be one of the best methods for power amplifier linearization due to its superior linearization performance albeit with relatively poor power efficiency. Here we present the derived closed-form expressions, which relate the main channel power and distortion products at the output of a simple feedforward circuitry to the circuit parameters. Consequently, a mathematical handy tool is achieved toward specifying the circuit parameters rapidly for optimum linearity performance and efficiency. The main and error amplifiers used in the feedforward are assumed to have a third-order AM/AM nonlinearity. The derived expressions are verified by simulation. The conditions for the validity of the model choice are highlighted. For the matched and lossless case, a compact relationship is obtained, which clearly demonstrates the tradeoff between nonlinearities of main and error amplifier for a given system linearity and output power. Delay mismatch is also included in the analysis.