Skyworks Solutions, Inc.
APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR OVERLOAD PROTECTION OF RADIO FREQUENCY AMPLIFIERS

Abstract:

Radio frequency (RF) amplifiers with overload protection are provided herein. In certain configurations, an RF amplifier system includes an RF amplifier that receives an RF signal from an input terminal. The RF amplifier includes an amplification field-effect transistor (FET) having a gate that receives the RF signal, and a degeneration circuit connected between a source of the amplifier FET and a ground voltage. The RF amplifier system further includes an electrostatic discharge protection circuit including a plurality of protection diodes electrically connected in series between the input terminal and the ground voltage, and a detector having an input connected along an electrical path through the plurality of protection diodes and an output that generates a detection signal operable to control an amount of degeneration provided by the degeneration circuit.