From Doherty to Load Modulated Balanced Amplifier: Hands-on Load-Modulated Power Amplifier Design for Efficient and Sustainable RF Systems
Date: Monday 5th October 08:30 – 18:00.
Presented by: Dr Samuel Hefford, Centre for High Frequency Engineering, Cardiff University & Vincent Poisson, Technical Field Engineering Manager, Keysight Technologies
The EuMW 2026 Student Design School will focus on high-efficiency microwave power amplifier design, positioned under the conference theme of sustainability. Building beyond a basic PA fundamentals course, the school will use load-modulated balanced amplifier (LMBA) design as the core hands-on ADS simulation activity, progressing from a baseline PA cell to balanced PA operation, injection-based load modulation, and comparison with Doherty PA architecture. Around 80% of the programme will focus on PA design and simulation, with short awareness sessions on layout/EM implementation and life-cycle analysis, helping students connect efficiency, complexity, manufacturability and environmental impact.