A dual-branch vector synthesis millimeter-wave predistortion linearizer

In view of the strong correlation between amplitude and phase characteristics of Traveling Wave Tube Amplifier (TWTA) analog predistortion technology, a dual-branch vector synthesis predistortion linearizer is proposed, which consists of branch line hybrid couplers, an adjustable attenuator and a reflective diode-based predistortion circuit. This linearizer is fabricated and measured according to the theoretical analysis and simulation results. The measurement results show that the linearizer can compensate the nonlinearity of the TWTAs. Once the two branches bias voltages are rationalized, the phase expansion can change 30 degrees, while the change of the amplitude expansion is less than 1 dB, which effectively reduces the correlation between the amplitude and the phase characteristics of the analog predistortion linearizer.