Space-Time Digital Power Amplifier

Traditional power amplifiers often require a digital-to-analog conversion process, which can be complex and intensive. The need for a broader bandwidth often negatively impacts the power efficiency of such devices. Moreover, the physical space needed for multiple transmit modules becomes a limiting factor in miniaturization. The problems with the current amplification technologies are many. They consume a lot of power, reduce efficiency, and require complex conversion steps. All these issues increase the complexity, cost, and physical size of the devices. The inefficiency in the conversion process and limitations in space resulting from the use of multiple hardware components also pose significant problems.

Technology Description

The space-time digital power amplifier is capable of generating an arbitrary waveform for a carrier signal. The amplifier achieves this through temporal modulation of transmit signals produced by an array of transmitter modules. The transmitted RF signals from the array are then spatially integrated through free-space propagation to bring about the resultant waveform. This technology eliminates the need for digital-to-analog conversion and unnecessary upconversion. The digital power amplifiers that constitute the transmitter modules can be consolidated into a single chip package. What distinguishes this technology is the ability to maintain high power efficiency by making use of pulse-shaped waveforms, thereby nullifying any requirement for the power amplifiers to operate across a more extensive bandwidth on an unconstrained waveform. This feature of the space-time digital power amplifier makes it a standout equipment by eliminating the need for a spectrally unconfined waveform.