Enter the power output, the power input, and the DC power into the calculator to determine the Power Added Efficiency. 

Power Added Efficiency Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the Power Added Efficiency.

PAE = (Po-Pin) / Pdc *100
  • Where PAE is the Power Added Efficiency (%)
  • Po is the power output 
  • Pin is the power input 
  • Pdc is the DC power 

To calculate the power added efficiency, subtract the input power from the output power, then divide by the DC power, and finally multiply by 100.

How to Calculate Power Added Efficiency?

The following example problems outline how to calculate the Power Added Efficiency.

Example Problem #1

  1. First, determine the power output. In this example, the power output is given as 40 .
  2. Next, determine the power input. For this problem, the power input is given as  30 .
  3. Next, determine the DC power. In this case, the DC power is found to be 20.
  4. Finally, calculate the Power Added Efficiency using the formula above: 

PAE = (Po-Pin) / Pdc *100

Inserting the values from above and solving yields: 

PAE = (40-30) / 20 *100 = 50 (%)

FAQ

What is Power Added Efficiency?

Power Added Efficiency (PAE) is a measure of the efficiency of an amplifier or other device in converting DC power into RF power. It is calculated by taking the difference between the output power and the input power, dividing by the DC power supplied, and then multiplying by 100 to get a percentage.

Why is Power Added Efficiency important?

PAE is important because it helps in evaluating the performance of amplifiers, especially in wireless communication systems. A higher PAE means that the amplifier is more efficient in converting DC power into useful output power, which can lead to lower operational costs and less heat generation.

How can Power Added Efficiency be improved?

Improving PAE can involve optimizing the amplifier design, such as using more efficient transistors or tuning the matching networks to minimize losses. Additionally, operating the amplifier at its optimal load line and employing techniques like bias adjustment or using switch-mode power supplies can also enhance PAE.