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Military PA platform reduces power dissipation

The Nujira military PA platform uses an RFMD RF3934 PA device together with a Coolteq.h ET (envelope tracking) modulator module. The performance of this platform was compared to the performance of the same transistor in fixed drain configuration over an operating frequency range of 225 to 450MHz, with signals with a high peak to average power ratio (PAPR) of 10dB. Using the Nujira ET module, the amplifier showed an efficiency improvement from 25% to 40% and, as an additional benefit from ET, delivered 1.5 to 2dB more peak power. The waveforms used in the new networked battlefield communications protocols are usually OFDM or QAM based and support frequency hopping and adaptive signal to noise encoding schemes. For example, the Wideband Networking Waveform specified by JTRS for ground to ground and ground to air communications and the Tactical Targeting Network Technology used for airborne sensor, shooter and ordnance communication is based on the OFDM modulation scheme. The Soldier Radio Waveform for soldier to soldier communications is based on QAM modulation. The Mobile User Objective System for satellite to ground, sea or air communication uses both OFDM and QAM, and leverages the W-CDMA technology developed commercially for existing mobile phone networks.