RF power amplifiers are integral parts of all basestations for cellular and mobile wireless infrastructure. They represent one of the most expensive component sub-assemblies in modern wireless infrastructure equipment and both their performance and cost are important drivers in base station design. Efficiency, physical size, linearity, and reliability are among the principal concerns. As price pressures become fiercer, new and innovative techniques and materials must be used to reduce the cost of this important component part while still maintaining performance.
Regional drivers, new technologies and the relationship between OEM and merchant suppliers are all discussed. Quantitative forecasts are presented through 2020.