Power amplifier (PA) linearization is one of the most critical and compute-intensive challenges in the Radio Access Network (RAN). As networks push toward higher frequencies, wider bandwidths, and more dynamic traffic loads, the need for precise Digital Pre-Distortion (DPD) becomes even more urgent.
Traditionally, DPD has relied on fixed DSP algorithms tuned for specific PAs and deployment scenarios. But as system requirements evolve, fixed pipelines can no longer deliver optimal results. That’s where AI-enhanced DPD comes in, and Altera Agilex™ SoC FPGAs provide the ideal platform to make it real.
AI + DSP: Smarter Pre-Distortion in a Unified Flow
In this demo, we demonstrate how engineers can integrate AI models into conventional DPD processing chains using DSP Builder and Quartus® Prime, and 3rd party AI software, all within a single, cohesive environment. This co-design approach allows engineers to:
- Seamlessly incorporate machine learning models for pre- or post-DSP processing
- Iterate across multiple DPD topologies and AI model precisions
- Rapidly evaluate tradeoffs in resource utilization, latency, and linearization accuracy
- Explore configurations that balance power, performance, and area for real-world deployment
Whether using behavioral models, memory polynomials, or deep learning-based estimators, this tool flow supports quick experimentation and rapid convergence on a production-grade DPD solution.
Why It Matters for Wireless Infrastructure
Power amplifier efficiency directly impacts base station power consumption, a major concern in dense deployments and edge nodes. AI-enabled DPD can deliver better spectral efficiency while reducing back-off requirements and heat dissipation, especially when deployed on hardware like Agilex FPGAs that are built for low-latency, parallel processing.
By combining traditional DSP signal chains with AI inference blocks in programmable logic, designers gain new degrees of freedom in optimizing RF performance. With FPGA-based AI, hybrid architectures are not only possible but also practical.
From Lab to Deployment with FPGAi
Altera’s unified tool flow empowers wireless system designers to iterate quickly, explore more deeply, and ultimately deliver better-performing RAN solutions. With the ability to simulate, test, and deploy AI + DSP pipelines entirely within the FPGA fabric, you can confidently move from concept to commercialization.
Watch the full demo to see how we’re redefining RAN signal processing through AI-native hardware. Visit our Wireless Solutions page or contact our team to explore how FPGA-based AI can accelerate your next DPD deployment.
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