Power added efficiency (PAE) is a critical metric for radio frequency amplifiers, calculated by subtracting the input RF power from the output RF power, then dividing by the DC power consumed. Unlike standard drain efficiency, PAE accounts for the drive power required to stimulate the amplifier. It is heavily used in mobile transmitter design where battery life and thermal limits are strict constraints.
We need to tweak the bias network because the PAE on this power amp drops below forty percent at max output.
Related terms
Amplifier
A circuit or standalone device that increases the power, voltage, or current of an electrical signal.
Gain
A measure of a circuit's ability to increase the power or amplitude of a signal.
Power electronics
The branch of electrical engineering focused on the conversion and control of electric power.