Analytically unified DC/small-signal/large-signal circuit design

The authors examine the inherent analytical relationship between the DC, small-signal, and harmonic balance circuit equations. This provides the basis for unified DC, small-signal, and large-signal analyses using a single nonlinear circuit description. This approach ensures consistent circuit simulation results and permits simultaneous optimization of DC, small-signal, and large-signal responses with multidimensional specifications. Applying this concept to field effect transistor (FET) parameter extraction leads to nonlinear device models suitable for both small-signal and large-signal analyses. The authors also demonstrate simultaneous small-signal and large-signal minimax optimization of an FET broadband amplifier to extend the dynamic operating range