Applications of system level component models for RF front end receiver design and optimization

An overview is provided of a range of linear and non-linear system level component models with novel features that enable efficient RF front-end design and optimizations. Described are scalable attenuator and LTCC filter models as well as X-parameters-based amplifier models that account for noise and nonlinearities as well as accurate S-parameter predictions. The substrate-scalable LTCC filter and attenuator models can be used to evaluate board-dependent performance to specification as well as compensate for non-ideal board and solder pad effects to achieve a good impedance match on a non-optimal board choice. Several simulation examples are provided to demonstrate how the models can be used individually or in combination for board-based RF sub-system design evaluation and optimization. Included is an RF front-end example that integrates several different system level component models for exploration of system level behaviors.