Discontinuity Characterization and Low-Complexity Smoothing in RF-PA Polynomial Piecewise Modeling
Piecewise modeling of power amplifiers (PAs) typically involves assembling different polynomials to capture nonlinear behavior across different operating regions. However, recombining these sub-models can introduce discontinuities at segment boundaries, degrading prediction accuracy and potentially impacting digital predistortion (DPD) performance. This work addresses this issue by introducing a statistical framework to detect discontinuities through localized variations in the conditional mean and variance of amplitude and phase responses. Using the Vector-Switched Generalized Memory Polynomial (VS-GMP) as a case study, we propose a low-complexity post-processing smoothing technique based on a raised cosine weighting function applied at model transition regions. Unlike structural approaches, the method requires no retraining and integrates seamlessly into existing workflows as a post-processing tool. Experimental validation across two PA architectures (Doherty and Single-Stage) and multiple 5G/LTE signals (20-200 MHz bandwidth, up to 11 dB PAPR, including carrier aggregation) demonstrates consistent improvements: up to a 3 dB NMSE reduction and notable spectral error suppression.
Authors
- Dang‐Kièn Germain Pham (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4510-3348)
- Patricia Desgreys (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8819-5532)
- Peter Rashev
- Carolina Pedrosa
- Pierre Almairac
- Jean-Christophe Nanan
Institutions
- NXP (Germany) (DE)
- Laboratoire Traitement et Communication de l’Information (FR)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Sensors
- Published
- 2025-10-26
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.3390/s25216593
- Primary Topic
- Advanced Power Amplifier Design
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00