GaAs HBTs for FR3 Power Amplifiers

GaAs HBTs are the primary workhorses for power amplifiers in sub-6GHz handsets and access points, offering a combination of high power, high PAE, linearity and good price point. They are in a strong position to have a major role at higher frequencies, covering applications to at least 15GHz. For backoff PAE, they are markedly amenable to envelope tracking, and a variety of Doherty designs are emerging. This presentation will cover issues related to transistor performance for FR3 operation including power, thermal management, linearity and ruggedness, and issues related to circuit design, including architecture choices, linearization and biasing options, power supply voltage in handsets, and options for use in base station antenna arrays.