High efficiency low distortion amplification

Abstract

A system and method is disclosed that provides a means for the high efficiency low distortion amplification of complex modulated radio frequency signals, such as but not limited to Single Side Band (SSB) signals. The innovative principle of the invention is based on the simultaneous amplitude and phase or angle modulation of Class "C" amplifier. Complex signals such as SSB signals can be described as a combination of amplitude and phase or angle modulation. By determining the amplitude and phase or angle components of the complex signal and using these to modulate a Class "C" amplifier, according to the manner prescribed in the invention, the objective of high efficiency low distortion is achieved. Previously, Class "B" amplifiers were required to amplify complex RF signals. The maximum efficiency of a Class "B" amplifier typically achieved in practice is about 40 percent compared to about 85 percent for Class "C" amplifiers. This increase in efficiency is very significant when applied to transmitters operating from batteries, solar cells, or other limited power sources in terms of size, weight, operating time and system cost.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.