Power amplifier performance under mismatch condition

[dolgaleb]

I have to test a 5 W power amplifier under mismatch conditions and verify that it can meet all requirements except for output power. So I have to be able to test for the different specifications while the PA is seeing a mismatch load. Can anyone suggest a test setup for this? I have an idea on how to do it but would like to see what other have done in the past.

Regards,

 

[BigBoss]

There is no international standard for Mismatch Loading for Power Amplifiers. Every company tests their product under different conditions.
But as far as I know, 10:1 VSWR or 15:1 VSWR are frequently used. There might be other test conditions.

 

[FvM]

Output power is specified for nominal load impedance unless your amplifier involves a tuner.
What do you read as output power, forward power Pf or delivered power Pd?

 

[vfone]

The PA most important parameter that needs to be tested under mismatch conditions is ruggedness.
Other PA parameters that have to be tested are: stability, linearity, output power, efficiency.
A basic setup to test those parameters is:

https://www.microwavejournal.com/article_images/10259_F3x500.gif