The emerging role of EM simulation in IEEE 802.16e mobile WiMAX power amplifier design

Abstract

This paper features state of the art and highly accurate method of designing a microwave amplifier. A Full-wave Electromagnetic (EM) Simulator that is based on Method-of-Moments (MoM) numerical method was used in complement with the conventional SPICE-based microwave circuit simulator to demonstrate a superior performance outcome such as Stability, Return Loss and Small Signal Gain. This method known as EM/Circuit Co-Simulation guarantees a design that work with the first board tape-out and concurrently multiple board layouts are avoided, which will saves design cost and time respectively. The method is precisely demonstrated with the design of power amplifier based on E-pHEMT technology intended for IEEE 802.16e Mobile WiMAX applications.