Real-time amplifier optimization algorithm for adaptive radio using a tunable-varactor matching network

Fast load impedance tuning of a varactor diode matching network to maximize amplifier gain in real-time reconfigurable circuitry is demonstrated. A published tunable varactor-diode matching topology is designed for operation at 1.3 GHz to provide significant Smith Chart coverage. A steepest-ascent algorithm is applied for fast optimization, and measurement results indicate excellent convergence from multiple starting points within the Smith Chart. Algorithm data compares well with traditional loadpull results measured with both a commercially available tuner and the tunable-varactor network, and searching with the varactor tuner search is much faster than a traditional mechanical tuner.