INTRODUCTION

QUAMP is an IOS application for microwave, small signal, narrow band amplifier design. It affords a quick preliminary investigation of the applicability of a device for an intended use. Device characterization of scattering (S) parameters and/or noise parameters are entered and response over a band of interest is quickly determined. This is accomplished by incorporating the following elements in the program:

classic S parameter design
Smith Chart constant gain/noise figure, stability circles, available gain/operating gain descriptions
microstrip parameters characterization
input/output match networks design for both microstrip and lumped element realizations
circuit analysis of the resulting design

The design is intrinsically limited to narrow band applications due to the use of simple match networks. The match networks consist of simple L networks realized either as microstrip lines or as lumped elements. The design can be prototyped as is. Alternatively, it can be used as a first step for an enhanced design (not part of QUAMP) incorporating broader band match networks, e.g., pi networks. The broader band response can be anticipated based on a constant gain/bandwidth relationship.

A useful feature of QUAMP is that it affords quick insight into the effects of source or load impedances (location choice on a circle) on circuit response characteristics. For a given specified gain performance the effects of source/load impedances on circuit effective Q is immediately seen in the response plots for an iterated choice.

In summary QUAMP:

automates the complex design procedures for high frequency amplifiers
shows the relationship between gain/noise figure and stability
specifies the match networks parameters: lengths/widths or Ls/Cs
presents the complete frequency response: gain, isolation, input/output matches
shows response sensitivity to device source/load impedances
affords a foundation design on which an enhanced broad band design may be based
is quick and easy to use
has an extensive help book available which covers use, design examples, and background theory
is an effective tool for the student in the understanding and application of the theory

The help book sections which follow are not tutorial. They present the essential highlights of the theory on which the application is based so that the program workings are de-mystified.