journal article·2026-02-06Open access

Design and Optimization of Highly Efficient RF Power Amplifiers for Acousto-Optic Tunable Filters in Spaceborne Applications

Pallab Kr Gogoi, Jurgen Vanhamel, Jérôme Loicq

Applied Sciences· Volume 16· Issue 3

Abstract

This paper presents the design and optimization of highly efficient radio frequency power amplifiers (RFPAs) for driving acousto-optic tunable filters (AOTFs) in spaceborne applications. High efficiency is critical in such applications to minimize power consumption, heat dissipation, and enhance system reliability. However, RFPAs typically generate significant harmonic content and heat, which can induce thermal effects and compromise the optical measurement accuracy of AOTFs. This work investigates the trade-offs among efficiency, bandwidth, harmonic suppression, and tunable output power. Analytical modeling and parametric optimization are employed to derive practical design strategies. The results offer valuable insights for the development of efficient RF driving systems for AOTFs.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Optical and Acousto-Optic Technologies · Advanced Photonic Communication Systems · Acoustic Wave Resonator Technologies

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Space System Engineering, Delft University of Technology, 2629 HS Delft, The Netherlands

Electronic Circuits and Systems, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kleinhoefstraat 4, 2440 Geel, Belgium

STAR Institute, University of Liège, Avenue du Pré Aily, 4031 Liège, Belgium

Funding

Delft University of Technology

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