More power per transistor translates into smaller amplifiers

POWER transistors have always been built to handle high energy levels. But if there is any single trend in discrete-device design and packaging over the last few years, it has been the push for more power per device, as dictated by the needs of cellular and personal communications services (PCS) and, to a lesser extent, by designers of avionics and other military systems. With up to 1 kW or more power available from a single transistor at some frequencies, amplifier designers can achieve their output-power goals without the diminishing returns of too many power combiners.