Abstract: A system and method for over-voltage protection of a power amplifier is provided. A power amplifier is typically employed in a transmitter to amplify signals prior to transmission via a load; the load may include an antenna or a cable. As a result of an impedance mismatch between the power amplifier and its load, excess power from the power amplifier output fails to reach the load and must be dissipated by one or more transistors in the power amplifier. In severe impedance mismatch conditions, this dissipated power may damage or destroy the transistor(s). An automatic gain control (AGC) is provided for detecting a gain difference between the power amplifier and a replica power amplifier. A gain difference may signal an over-voltage situation. The AGC may be configured to adjust the gain of the power amplifier if a gain difference exists to prevent device damage.

Abstract: A system and method for over-voltage protection of a power amplifier is provided. A power amplifier is typically employed in a transmitter to amplify signals prior to transmission via a load; the load may include an antenna or a cable. As a result of an impedance mismatch between the power amplifier and its load, excess power from the power amplifier output fails to reach the load and must be dissipated by one or more transistors in the power amplifier. In severe impedance mismatch conditions, this dissipated power may damage or destroy the transistor(s). An automatic gain control (AGC) is provided for detecting a gain difference between the power amplifier and a replica power amplifier. A gain difference may signal an over-voltage situation. The AGC may be configured to adjust the gain of the power amplifier if a gain difference exists to prevent device damage.