Paul Burridge wrote:

On Fri, 27 Aug 2004 17:43:34 -0700, John Larkin
wrote:


Have you actually built a class C linear RF power amp? Tell us how it
works.


It depends on how you define "linear" basically. But the term is a
total misnomer in RF amp terminology and very misleading. I can't
understand how it got there. :-/

From basic systems theory:

A system S is linear if and only if for any two input signals x1 and x2
that generate the output signals y1 = S(x1) and y2 = S(x2), and for any
two real constants A1 and A2, the output signal y = S(A1*x1 + A2*x2) is
equal to A1*y1 + A2*y2.

This condition is approached with a properly adjusted RF linear
amplifier, even one operated class AB or B. It is _not_ approached with
a class C amplifier.

So if you define "linear" the way electronics engineering professionals
define "linear" a class A, AB or B amplifier can be made to act
linearly, more or less, and a class C amplifier cannot. So the term
isn't a misnomer, and its use is obvious.

--

Tim Wescott
Wescott Design Services
http://www.wescottdesign.com