RF Amplifier PAE Calculator

PAE is a measure of how efficiently an RF amplifier converts DC power into additional RF power. It's calculated as (Pout - Pin) / PDC × 100%, where Pout is output power, Pin is input power, and PDC is DC power consumption.

PAE is crucial because it determines how much of the DC power is effectively used to amplify the signal. Higher PAE means less power waste, reduced heat generation, longer battery life, and better overall system efficiency.

Drain efficiency only considers output power relative to DC power (Pout/PDC), while PAE accounts for the power gain by subtracting input power from output power. PAE provides a more accurate measure of amplifier efficiency.

PAE values vary widely depending on amplifier class and frequency. Class A amplifiers typically achieve 20-40% PAE, while Class F and Class E can reach 70-85% PAE at optimal operating conditions.

DC power is calculated as PDC = VDC × IDC, where VDC is the DC supply voltage and IDC is the DC current drawn by the amplifier. This should be measured at the actual operating conditions.

No, PAE cannot exceed 100% as it would violate the law of energy conservation. The maximum theoretical PAE is 100%, which would mean all DC power is converted to additional RF power with no losses.

You can use Watts, dBm, or kilowatts for RF power measurements. For DC power, Watts or kilowatts are typically used. The calculator automatically handles unit conversions to ensure accurate results.

PAE varies significantly with operating point. It's typically highest at moderate output power levels and decreases at very low or very high power levels due to class of operation, bias conditions, and compression effects.