Class C tuned amplifiers are a type of electronic amplifier used to amplify and filter signals at a specific frequency range.
The amplifier operates in class C mode, which means that it uses a biased amplifier to provide the desired amplification. Class C amplifiers are highly efficient because they operate with very low bias current, resulting in minimal power dissipation.
Features of Class C tuned amplifier
- High efficiency
- Tuned LC circuit
- Low distortion
- Excellent frequency response
Working of Class C tuned amplifier
The basic principle of a class C tuned amplifier is to use a tuned circuit to select a specific frequency range, and then amplify that signal using a biased amplifier. The tuned circuit consists of a capacitor and an inductor that are selected to resonate at the desired frequency. The amplifier circuit is then designed to provide the required gain and impedance matching.
The class C amplifier operates by using a bias voltage to control the output current. The bias voltage is set so that the amplifier operates in class C mode, where the amplifier conducts only during a small portion of the input signal cycle. This allows the amplifier to achieve high efficiency while maintaining low distortion.
Applications of Class C amplifier
Class C tuned amplifiers are used in a wide range of RF applications, including:
- Radio transmitters: These amplifiers are used in radio transmitters to amplify and filter the RF signal.
- Radio receivers: Class C tuned amplifiers are used in radio receivers to amplify and filter the received RF signal.
- RF power amplifiers: These amplifiers are used in RF power amplifiers to provide high power output with minimal power dissipation.
- Wireless communication systems: The C tuned amplifiers are used in wireless communication systems, such as cellular phones and Wi-Fi routers, to amplify and filter the RF signal.