"X-Parameters: The Power to Create a Paradigm Shift in Nonlinear Design?"

Charles Baylis, Ph.D,

Assistant Professor and Co-Director, Wireless and Microwave Circuits and Systems (WMCS) Program, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Baylor University, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Baylor University

Wednesday, February 24, 2010, 12:20, Room 314, Rogers Bldg.

[PRESENTATION SLIDES: pdf | ppt ]

Abstract:

A set of nonlinear network parameters, known as the X-parameters*, has been developed as a means to assess nonlinear systems.  The potential of this approach since its introduction has aroused significant curiosity among microwave designers and appears poised to change the way nonlinear circuits and systems are designed, as it could reduce or eliminate the need for nonlinear models in the large-signal design process.  This presentation gives an overview of linear network theory (Z-parameters, Y-parameters, and S-parameters) as a background, then explains the formulation and related measurement techniques for X-parameters.  Use of this approach to dramatically change the microwave design process is discussed, based on the presently accepted small-signal design procedure using S-parameters.  Attention will be given to research at Baylor WMCS that is being performed to allow this paradigm shift to take place through providing for less expensive measurements and development of equations describing gain, third-order intercept, and other important design parameters.  Additional potential applications to areas such as power electronics and vibrations are also considered. 

Biographical Information:  

Charles Baylisis an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Baylor University in Waco, Texas.  Along with Dr. Randall Jean, he directs the Wireless and Microwave Circuits and Systems (WMCS) Program at Baylor.  He received the B.S.E.E., M.S.E.E., and Ph.D. degrees from the University of South Florida in 2002, 2004, and 2007, respectively.  Dr. Baylis supervises research in the area of nonlinear microwave circuit design, modeling, and measurement and is presently working on projects involving (1) linear and efficient radar power amplifier design and (2) nonlinear measurements and applications of nonlinear network parameters and measurements to power amplifier design.   He has authored several papers related to his areas of interest. 

*X-parameters is a registered trademark of Agilent Technologies.