OK, I understand the whole idea behind class D/E is efficiency, and I assume class E is more efficient than class D, or there would be no point to class E. But, what are the real numbers?
-Inquiring minds want to know.-
ND9B
Well, there are lots of reasons to use one over the other.
Class D works well if:
You have a known, constant, resistive load for the transmitter to work into
It is not necessary to tune the transmitter (to vary the RF amplifier current, etc.)
The operating frequency is low enough for the devices to function properly in the mode
The operating frequency does not vary too far from the design center frequency
There is a good physical layout available
Stray inductances in the output are not too high
Class E is favored if:
The load the transmitter sees varies or is reactive
The ability to tune the transmitter or adjust the current is desired
The operating frequency is higher than the devices can efficiently switch
The operating frequency varies over a wide range
There is stray inductance in the output or the physical layout
Anyway, there are some differences.
Regards,
Steve