• To introduce advanced concepts and applications of non-linear devices in RF and microwave circuits
• To consider the effects of “unintentional” non-linearity in RF and microwave circuits, and the impact on higher level modern communications systems.
• To explore the useful properties of “intentionally” non-linear devices; specifically  in the design of efficient power amplifiers
• To give an overview of the operation of detectors, mixers, and multipliers and their application in modern-day communications systems.

• Appreciate the key aspects of non-linear electronic devices, understand the difference between “intentional” and “unintentional” non-linear effects  
• Demonstrate an advanced working knowledge of the mathematical tools used in non-linear analysis:  time and frequency domain analysis, Fourier series, power series
• Understand the effects of unintentional non-linear effects in communications circuits: harmonic distortion, inter-modulation distortion
• Understand advanced principles of RF power amplifier design; building upon Classes A,AB,C
• Use of “PA_Waves” software to develop further understanding of RFPA design
• Perform a basic RFPA Class AB design using a non-linear simulator
• Understand the methods used to characterise RFPA linearity: AM-AM, AM-PM, relationship with harmonic and inter-modulation characteristics
• Understand the basic operation and applications of detectors, mixers, and frequency multipliers

This module consists of 24 one-hour lectures (including 5 one-hour examples classes).
Students are expected to devote at least 10 hours private study to preparing solutions to the examples sheets. The examples sheets will provide a useful framework for revision for the examination.

• Understand the fundamental relationships between the manifestations of non-linear behaviour in the time domain and frequency domain
• Understand that non-linear effects can be both harmful and useful
• Use of non-linear CAD simulators to design simple non-linear circuits

This module is assessed using a 2-hour written examination

In order to pass the module and obtain 10 credits, the minimum pass mark of 50% must be achieved.

• Non-linear electronic devices with “intentional” and “unintentional” non-linear effects (2 lectures) 
• Mathematical tools for non-linear analysis (1 lecture)
• Time and frequency domain analysis (2 lectures, 1 examples class)
• Non-linear effects in communications circuits (4 lectures, 1 examples class)
• RF power amplifier design (3 lectures)
• Software tools for RFPA design (1 lecture, 1 examples class)
• RFPA design using a non-linear simulator (2 lectures)
• Characterising RFPA linearity (2 lectures, 1 examples class)
• Detectors, mixers, and frequency multipliers (2 lectures, 1 examples class)

1. D.M. Pozar, 2005, Microwave Engineering, Wiley
2. S. Ramo,J.R.Whinnery and T. Van Duzer, 1993, Fields and Waves in Communication Electronics, Wiley
3. T.S. Laverghetta,1998, Microwaves and Wireless Simplified, Artech House
4. G. Gonzalez, 1997, Microwave Transistor Amplifiers, Analysis and Design, Prentice-Hall
5. G.D. Vendelin, A.M. Pavio and U.L. Rohde,1990, Microwave Circuit Design, Wiley
6. S.C. Cripps, 2006, RF Power Amplifiers for Wireless Communications, Second Edition, Artech House