Computerized AC-DC Design Equations for Class "B" Power Amplifiers

This paper presents the preliminary results of a program to increase circuit reliability while reducing engineering time and maintaining cost control. To implement this program, it was first necessary to derive equations for use in the design and analysis of different amplifier circuits, which included both AC and DC parameters. Although Class "B" amplifier theory has been covered in numerous textbooks, previous papers, and application notes, there is no reference of which we are aware that considers anything but the basic output circuit and power supply. For a complete analysis, it is necessary to consider the effects of Class "B" drivers, DC feedback and Class "B" bias means. The equations derived may be grouped into two categories; (1) generalized equations applicable to any output confi,guration, and relating power output to power supply voltage and current, and to transistor dissipation, and; (2) equations for DC and thermal analysis of specific circuit configurations. The classical loop equation method was used for the DC equations.