High-Efficiency Broadband GaN Power Amplifier with Algorithmic Gate-Bias Optimization.

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Bibliographic Details
Title:	High-Efficiency Broadband GaN Power Amplifier with Algorithmic Gate-Bias Optimization.
Authors:	Elrefaey, Ahmed¹, Faragb, Fathi A.², Hamdi, Azhar A.², Almslmany, Amir¹ dr.mslmany.7256.adc@alexu.edu.eg
Source:	Progress in Electromagnetics Research C. 2026, Vol. 165, p108-117. 10p.
Subjects:	Power amplifiers, Mathematical optimization, Wireless communications, Broadband communication systems
Abstract:	Achieving simultaneous wideband operation and high output power efficiency remains a major challenge in modern GaN HEMT power amplifier (PA) design, particularly for broadband communications and radar systems. This paper presents a systematic design methodology for a broadband PA that integrates radial-stub (RS)-based bias/matching networks with an algorithmic gate-bias (VGS) optimization, alongside load-pull-derived device termination and compact layout. Starting with the Wolfspeed CMPA0530002S GaN HEMT, which features intrinsic broadband stability and an integrated input match, we replace conventional narrowband bias lines with a radial-stub network that ensures broadband bias isolation and low-loss matching. A thorough load-pull study identifies the optimum load impedance for concurrent maximization of power-added efficiency (PAE), gain, and output power. Subsequently, an automated VGS sweep across the full 1.16-1.6 GHz band determines the optimal bias point for broadband and efficiency trade-off. The PA achieves a simulated result of output power of 34.28 dBm, flat gain of approximately 13.28 dB, and a peak PAE of 58.69% in a fractional bandwidth of 37% (1.16-1.6 GHz). A key novelty of this work lies in the proposed algorithmic VGS sweep technique, which enables optimization of broadband efficiency throughout the entire 1.16-1.6 GHz operating band and can be easily extended to other frequency ranges. Unlike conventional bias optimization methods that are limited to a single frequency, the proposed algorithm systematically identifies the optimal gate bias across multiple frequencies to maintain high efficiency and consistent output power over a wide bandwidth. The simulated results confirm that this algorithmic bias optimization approach achieves superior broadband efficiency and stable output performance, providing a scalable and adaptable design methodology for next-generation wireless communication and electronic warfare systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database:	Engineering Source

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Abstract:	Achieving simultaneous wideband operation and high output power efficiency remains a major challenge in modern GaN HEMT power amplifier (PA) design, particularly for broadband communications and radar systems. This paper presents a systematic design methodology for a broadband PA that integrates radial-stub (RS)-based bias/matching networks with an algorithmic gate-bias (VGS) optimization, alongside load-pull-derived device termination and compact layout. Starting with the Wolfspeed CMPA0530002S GaN HEMT, which features intrinsic broadband stability and an integrated input match, we replace conventional narrowband bias lines with a radial-stub network that ensures broadband bias isolation and low-loss matching. A thorough load-pull study identifies the optimum load impedance for concurrent maximization of power-added efficiency (PAE), gain, and output power. Subsequently, an automated VGS sweep across the full 1.16-1.6 GHz band determines the optimal bias point for broadband and efficiency trade-off. The PA achieves a simulated result of output power of 34.28 dBm, flat gain of approximately 13.28 dB, and a peak PAE of 58.69% in a fractional bandwidth of 37% (1.16-1.6 GHz). A key novelty of this work lies in the proposed algorithmic VGS sweep technique, which enables optimization of broadband efficiency throughout the entire 1.16-1.6 GHz operating band and can be easily extended to other frequency ranges. Unlike conventional bias optimization methods that are limited to a single frequency, the proposed algorithm systematically identifies the optimal gate bias across multiple frequencies to maintain high efficiency and consistent output power over a wide bandwidth. The simulated results confirm that this algorithmic bias optimization approach achieves superior broadband efficiency and stable output performance, providing a scalable and adaptable design methodology for next-generation wireless communication and electronic warfare systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:	19378718
DOI:	10.2528/PIERC25111801