I read in sci.electronics.design that Tim Wescott
wrote (in .
com) about 'How to bias a MOSFET amp?', on Sat, 28 Aug 2004:

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.

The point that the discussion has reached is that the term 'linear' IS
used in a different sense that includes Class C, whether we like it or
not.

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.

These are the 'electronic engineering professionals' who have 49
different definitions of 'level' in the International Electrotechnical
Vocabulary? (;-)
--
Regards, John Woodgate, OOO - Own Opinions Only.
The good news is that nothing is compulsory.
The bad news is that everything is prohibited.
http://www.jmwa.demon.co.uk Also see http://www.isce.org.uk