Class-E rectifiers and power converters

Abstract

This paper reviews the use of the class-E topology for RF-to-DC and DC-to-DC power conversion. After covering its early history, the class-E rectifier is introduced in the context of the time-reversal duality principle, to be then integrated with an inverter in a class-E2 DC/DC converter. Recent examples and applications at UHF and microwave bands are finally presented. A review of RF rectifiers based on Schottky diodes or FET transistors, is followed by a discussion of synchronous and self-synchronous implementations of the double class-E DC/DC converter, using advanced GaN HEMT transistors.