Mobile communication devices with multiple subscriptions that utilize a single baseband-radio frequency resource chain

Abstract

A mobile communication device with multiple subscriptions includes a single baseband-radio frequency (BB-RF) resource chain. A first identity module, such as a subscriber identity module (SIM), a second identity module (e.g., a second SIM), and a controller are communicatively coupled to the single BB-RF resource chain. The first identity module is associated with a first subscription, and the second identity module is associated with a second subscription. The controller may be configured to arbitrate access to the single BB-RF resource chain to perform a first activity that corresponds to the first subscription or a second activity that corresponds to the second subscription. For example, the controller may interrupt a data session processed by the single BB-RF resource chain in response to receiving information indicating that a voice call is to be processed by the single BB-RF resource chain.

Description

[0001] request priority [0002] This application claims priority to US Patent Application No. 61 / 311,090, filed March 5, 2010, which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference in its entirety. technical field [0003] In general terms, the present disclosure relates to devices with multiple subscriptions utilizing a single baseband radio frequency (BB-RF) resource chain. Background technique [0004] Advances in technology have resulted in smaller and more powerful computing devices. For example, there currently exist a variety of portable personal computing devices, including wireless computing devices, such as portable wireless telephones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and paging devices that are small, lightweight and easily carried by users. In particular, portable wireless telephones, such as cellular telephones and Internet Protocol (IP) telephones, can communicate voice and data packets over wireless networks. In addition, many such wireless telephones inc...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

DSDS devices using a single baseband radio frequency (BB-RF) resource chain may not be able to support simultaneous services on different subscriptions

For example, during a call on one subscription, other subscriptions may not be available, resulting in potentially missed calls

As another example, other modem procedures on one subscription (e.g., mobility procedures such as reselection, registration, etc.) may result in a temporary loss of service on the other subscription

Although DSDS devices can support dual-signature concurrency by using two separate dedicated BB-RF resource chains for the two types of contracts, this may result in a higher bill of materials (BOM) and larger printed circuit board (PCB) area

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