Low noise amplification module for multi-band

Abstract

The application provides a multi-band low-noise amplification module with improved amplification efficiency of a transmission signal, which comprises a first filter circuit, a second filter circuit, at least one low-noise amplification circuit, a receiving input switch, and a second tuning circuit. The first receiving signal output from the first filter circuit and the second receiving signal output from the second filter circuit are selectively transmitted to one of the at least one low-noise amplification circuit, respectively. The second tuning circuit is connected between the receiving input switch and the at least one low-noise amplification circuit, and adjusts impedance matching based on the change of the state of impedance matching between the first filter circuit, the second filter circuit and the at least one low-noise amplification circuit.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application. The original application is an invention patent application filed on May 15, 2018, with application number 201810461715.5 and invention title "Power Amplifier Module for Multi-Band Application". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a low-noise amplification module for multi-frequency bands. Background Technology

[0003] Against the backdrop of high-density installation of mobile communication terminals such as portable telephones, research is underway to reduce the number of components by sharing various components such as antenna switches, input switches, output switches, duplexers, power amplifier circuits, low-noise amplifier circuits, and matching circuits.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a power amplifier module having M inputs and N outputs, wherein at least two of the M inputs are respectively connected to switches of the distribution path, and the power amplifier module includes multiple filter circuits and a power amplifier circuit.

[0005] On the other hand, with the increase in communication traffic processed by mobile communication terminals in recent years, the development of a communication technology called carrier aggregation (CA), which uses multiple frequency bands simultaneously, is underway. By utilizing CA, the communication speed and quality of mobile communication terminals can be improved.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0119015

[0009] However, the power amplifier module described in Patent Document 1 does not describe a structure for dealing with impedance matching (CA). For example, in a CA-handling structure, one could consider the case where the output terminal of the power amplifier circuit is connected to one path and the case where it is connected to two paths. In this case, the impedance matching between the output of the power amplifier circuit and the load impedance changes. Thus, if the power amplifier module described in Patent Document 1 is applied to CA, the impedance matching may decrease, and the amplification efficiency of the transmitted signal in the power amplifier module may decrease. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The present invention was made in view of the following circumstances, and its object is to provide a low-noise amplification module for multi-band applications that can improve the amplification efficiency of transmitted signals.

[0011] One aspect of the present invention relates to a low-noise amplification module for multi-band operation, comprising: a first filter circuit; a second filter circuit; at least one low-noise amplification circuit; a receiving input switch that selectively transmits a first receiving signal output from the first filter circuit and a second receiving signal output from the second filter circuit to one of the at least one low-noise amplification circuits, respectively; and a second tuning circuit that adjusts impedance matching based on changes in the impedance matching state between the first filter circuit, the second filter circuit, and the at least one low-noise amplification circuit, the second tuning circuit being connected between the receiving input switch and the at least one low-noise amplification circuit.

[0012] One aspect of the present invention relates to a multi-band power amplifier module comprising: at least one transmit input terminal; at least one power amplifier circuit for receiving a first transmit signal and a second transmit signal from the at least one transmit input terminal; a first filter circuit for passing the first transmit signal; a second filter circuit for passing the second transmit signal; at least one transmit output terminal for outputting the first transmit signal and the second transmit signal output from the first filter circuit and the second filter circuit; a transmit output switch for outputting the first transmit signal and the second transmit signal output from the at least one power amplifier circuit to the first filter circuit or the second filter circuit, respectively; and a first tuning circuit for adjusting the impedance matching between the at least one power amplifier circuit and the at least one transmit output terminal.

[0013] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a multi-band power amplifier module comprising: at least one transmit input terminal for inputting a first transmit signal and a second transmit signal; at least one power amplifier circuit for inputting the first transmit signal and the second transmit signal from the at least one transmit input terminal; a first filter circuit for allowing the first transmit signal to pass through; a second filter circuit for allowing the second transmit signal to pass through; at least one transmit output terminal for outputting the first transmit signal and the second transmit signal output from the first filter circuit and the second filter circuit; a transmit input switch for outputting the first transmit signal and the second transmit signal input from the at least one transmit input terminal to one of the at least one power amplifier circuits; and a first tuning circuit for adjusting the impedance matching between the at least one power amplifier circuit and the at least one transmit output terminal.

[0014] Invention Effects

[0015] According to the present invention, a low-noise amplification module for multi-frequency bands can be provided, which aims to improve the amplification efficiency of transmitted signals. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a block diagram that schematically illustrates the circuit structure of the multi-band power amplifier module according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a block diagram that schematically illustrates the circuit structure of the power amplifier module for multi-band operation according to the second embodiment.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a block diagram that schematically illustrates the circuit structure of the power amplifier module for multi-band applications according to the third embodiment.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating the circuit structure used to simulate the impedance of an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a block diagram showing the circuit structure for simulating the impedance of the comparative example.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a graph showing the simulation results for frequency band 5.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a graph showing the simulation results for frequency band 12.

[0023] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0024] 100: Power amplifier module for multi-band operation; TXI, TX2, ..., TXj: Transmit signals; IN1, IN2, ..., INh: Transmit input terminals; SW1: Transmit input switch; PA1, PA2, ..., PAi: Power amplifier circuit; SW2: Transmit output switch; TNG1: First tuning circuit; MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj: Multiplexer (filter circuit); SW3: Antenna switch; ANT1, ANT2, ..., ANTj, ANTp: Transmit output terminals; RX1, RX2, ..., RXk: Transmit signals; SW4: Receive input switch; TNG2: Second tuning circuit; LNA1, LNA2, ..., LNAm: Low noise amplifier circuit; OUT1, OUT2, ..., OUTn: Receive output terminals. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In embodiments two and a half, the same or similar constituent elements as in the first embodiment are indicated by the same or similar reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted. Furthermore, regarding effects obtained in embodiments two and a half, descriptions of effects identical to those in the first embodiment are appropriately omitted. The accompanying drawings for each embodiment are illustrative, and the dimensions and shapes of the parts are schematic; the technical scope of the present invention should not be limited to these embodiments.

[0026] <First Implementation Method>

[0027] First, refer to Figure 1 The structure of the multi-band power amplifier module 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 This is a block diagram that schematically illustrates the circuit structure of the multi-band power amplifier module 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0028] The multi-band power amplification module 100 is a high-frequency module used in mobile communication terminals such as portable phones that correspond to the CA (Carrier Aggregation) method to amplify the power of the transmitted signal to the level required for transmission to the base station. Here, the transmitted signal is, for example, an RF (Radio Frequency) signal modulated by an RFIC (Radio Frequency Integrated Circuit) or the like according to a given communication method.

[0029] The so-called CA (Carrier-Alignment) mode is a communication method that uses multiple frequency bands (bands) to simultaneously exchange multiple transmitted and received signals with the base station. Compared with communication methods that transmit and receive within a single frequency band, the CA mode can improve communication speed and connection stability. There are no particular limitations on the frequency bands used in the multi-band power amplifier module 100; for example, appropriate selections can be made from E-UTRA standard frequency band 1 (uplink 1920MHz-1980MHz, downlink 2100MHz-2170MHz), ..., frequency band 255.

[0030] The power amplifier module 100 for multi-band applications can be any of the following: Intra-band Contiguous CA (CC) using consecutive member carriers (CCs) within the same frequency band as multiple transmitted signals to be amplified; Intra-band Non-contiguous CA (CC) using discontinuous CCs within the same frequency band; or Inter-band Non-contiguous CA (CC) using discontinuous CCs from different frequency bands.

[0031] The power amplifier module 100 for multi-band applications does not limit the number of CCs used; it can be a 2UL-CA using two uplink CCs or a 3UL-CA using three uplink CCs. For example, a 2UL-CA can use combinations of band 2 (uplink 1850MHz-1910MHz) and band 12 (uplink 699MHz-716MHz), band 4 (uplink 1710MHz-1755MHz) and band 12, band 3 (uplink 1710MHz-1785MHz) and band 41 (uplink 2496MHz-2690MHz), or band 8 (uplink 880MHz-915MHz) and band 41. Furthermore, a 3UL-CA can use combinations of band 2, band 12, and band 30, or band 4, band 12, and band 30.

[0032] The multi-band power amplifier module 100 includes: multiple transmit input terminals IN1, IN2, ..., INh; a transmit input switch SW1; multiple power amplifier circuits PA1, PA2, ..., PAi; a transmit output switch SW2; a first tuning circuit TNG1; multiple multiplexers (filter circuits) MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj; and multiple transmit output terminals ANT1, ANT2, ..., ANTj. The multi-band power amplifier module 100 amplifies multiple transmit signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj. Furthermore, the multi-band power amplifier module 100 includes a structure (not shown) for amplifying received signals, capable of amplifying multiple received signals RX1, RX2, ..., RXk. Alternatively, the multi-band power amplifier module 100 may also have a structure that does not amplify received signals.

[0033] Multiple transmit input terminals IN1, IN2, ..., INh are terminals used to input multiple transmit signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj from an external source to the multi-band power amplifier module 100. For example, transmit signal TX1 is input from transmit input terminal IN1, and transmit signal TX2 is input from transmit input terminal IN2. Figure 1 In the configuration example shown, h is an integer of 3 or higher, and the multi-band power amplifier module 100 should have h transmit input terminals IN1, IN2, ..., INh. Furthermore, in Figure 1In the illustrated configuration example, j is an integer greater than or equal to 3, indicating that the multi-band power amplifier module 100 amplifies and outputs j transmitted signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj. However, for the multi-band power amplifier module 100, it is sufficient to amplify at least two transmitted signals, and the number of transmitted signals j only needs to be 2 or greater. When multiple transmitted signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj with different values ​​are input from multiple transmitted input terminals IN1, IN2, ..., INh, the number of transmitted input terminals is equal to the number of transmitted signals. That is, h = j.

[0034] Alternatively, multiple transmit signals can be input from a single transmit input terminal. For example, transmit signals TX1 and TX2 can be input from a single transmit input terminal IN1. Therefore, the number of transmit input terminals for the multi-band power amplifier module 100 can be less than the number of transmit signals. That is, h < j. The multi-band power amplifier module 100 only needs to have at least one transmit input terminal. That is, 1 ≤ h ≤ j is sufficient.

[0035] The transmit input switch SW1 outputs each of the multiple transmit signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj input from multiple transmit input terminals IN1, IN2, ..., INh to one of multiple power amplifier circuits PA1, PA2, ..., PAi. By including the transmit input switch SW1, the multi-band power amplifier module 100 can selectively input each of the multiple transmit signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj to a suitable power amplifier circuit. Even if the common bias (CC) of the multiple transmit signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj input to the multi-band power amplifier module 100 changes, the transmit input switch SW1 can switch the path according to the change in CC. This suppresses the decrease in the amplification efficiency of the transmit signal. Alternatively, the transmit input switch SW1 can be omitted. That is, a specific transmit input terminal can be fixedly connected to each of the multiple power amplifier circuits.

[0036] The transmit input switch SW1 can output multiple transmit signals to a single power amplifier circuit, or it can output multiple transmit signals to different power amplifier circuits. For example, when the common junctions (CCs) of transmit signals TX1 and TX2 are close to each other, or when their CCs are the same, the transmit input switch SW1 outputs transmit signals TX1 and TX2 to power amplifier circuit PA1. Furthermore, when the CCs of transmit signals TX1 and TX2 are separate, the transmit input switch SW1 outputs transmit signal TX1 to power amplifier circuit PA1 and transmit signal TX2 to power amplifier circuit PA2.

[0037] Multiple power amplifier circuits PA1, PA2, ..., PAi amplify and output the power of multiple transmit signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj input through transmit input switch SW1. Figure 1 In the example shown, i is an integer greater than 3, and the multi-band power amplifier module 100 has i power amplifier circuits PA1, PA2, ..., PAi.

[0038] Regarding the multi-band power amplifier module 100, the number of power amplifier circuits is not limited as long as multiple transmitted signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj can be amplified. For example, when the CC values ​​of transmitted signals TX1 and TX2 are close to each other, a single power amplifier circuit PA1 can amplify both of the transmitted signals TX1 and TX2. Therefore, the number of power amplifier circuits i only needs to be at least 1 and less than or equal to the number of transmitted input terminals h. That is, it only needs to be 1 ≤ i ≤ h. In this way, if the number of power amplifier circuits i can be reduced, miniaturization and cost reduction of the multi-band power amplifier module 100 can be achieved.

[0039] The transmit output switch SW2 outputs each of the multiple transmit signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj from the multiple power amplifier circuits PA1, PA2, ..., PAi to multiple multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj. The multi-band power amplifier module 100, by including the transmit output switch SW2, can selectively input each of the multiple transmit signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj to a suitable multiplexer. Even if the control (CC) of the multiple transmit signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj output from each of the multiple power amplifier circuits PA1, PA2, ..., PAi changes, the transmit output switch SW2 can switch the path according to the change in CC. This reduces the transmit signal loss caused by the multiplexer.

[0040] The transmit output switch SW2 can connect one power amplifier circuit to multiple multiplexers, or connect multiple power amplifier circuits to different multiplexers. For example, when the transmit signals TX1 and TX2 are amplified in power amplifier circuit PA1, transmit output switch SW2 simultaneously selects a first path for outputting transmit signal TX1 from power amplifier circuit PA1 to multiplexer MPX1 and a second path for outputting transmit signal TX2 from power amplifier circuit PA1 to multiplexer MPX2. Furthermore, when transmit signal TX1 is amplified in power amplifier circuit PA1 and transmit signal TX2 is amplified in power amplifier circuit PA2, transmit output switch SW2 selects a first path for outputting transmit signal TX1 from power amplifier circuit PA1 to multiplexer MPX1 and a third path for outputting transmit signal TX2 from power amplifier circuit PA2 to multiplexer MPX2. Therefore, the number of power amplifier circuits i can be less than the number of multiplexers j. In this way, if the number of power amplifier circuits i can be reduced, miniaturization and cost reduction of the multi-band power amplifier module 100 can be achieved.

[0041] The first tuning circuit TNG1 adjusts the impedance matching between multiple power amplifier circuits PA1, PA2, ..., PAi and multiple transmit output terminals ANT1, ANT2, ..., ANTj. The first tuning circuit TNG1 is connected between the transmit output switch SW2 and multiple multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj. The first tuning circuit TNG1 may include, for example, a DTC (Digitally Tunable Capacitor). By including the first tuning circuit TNG1, the multi-band power amplifier module 100 can suppress the decrease in transmit signal amplification efficiency caused by changes in the matching state between the output impedance and load impedance of the power amplifier circuits. In the case where the transmit output switch SW2 is configured to select the path connecting the power amplifier circuits and multiplexers, even if the matching state between the output impedance and load impedance of the power amplifier circuits changes due to the path selected by the transmit output switch SW2, the first tuning circuit TNG1 can appropriately adjust the impedance matching.

[0042] As an example, when the transmit output switch SW2 is selected as both the first and second paths as a path connected to the power amplifier circuit PA1, the impedance matching state changes compared to the case where only the first path is selected as a path connected to the power amplifier circuit PA1. For instance, suppose that when only the first path is selected as a path connected to the power amplifier circuit PA1, the circuit is designed so that the output impedance of the power amplifier circuit PA1 matches the load impedance. In this case, by adjusting the impedance matching based on the change in impedance matching state by the first tuning circuit TNG1, the decrease in the amplification efficiency of the transmit signal TX1 when the transmit output switch SW2 is selected as both the first and second paths can be suppressed. Similarly, in the second path, by adjusting the impedance matching by the first tuning circuit TNG1, the decrease in the amplification efficiency of the transmit signal TX2 can also be suppressed.

[0043] As another example, the multi-band power amplifier module 100 can vary the output level of the transmitted signal TX1 according to the distance between the portable communication terminal and the base station; that is, the amplification of the transmitted signal TX1 in the power amplifier circuit PA1 can be varied. For example, the circuit can be designed such that when the transmitted signal TX1 output from the power amplifier circuit PA1 to the multiplexer MPX1 is at a specific output level, the output impedance of the power amplifier circuit PA1 matches the load impedance. In this case, by adjusting the impedance matching state according to the output level of the transmitted signal TX1 by the first tuning circuit TNG1, the decrease in the amplification efficiency of the transmitted signal TX1 can be suppressed.

[0044] Furthermore, the first tuning circuit TNG1 only needs to be able to suppress the decrease in amplification efficiency of at least one of the at least two transmitted signals amplified in the multi-band power amplifier module 100. For example, the first tuning circuit TNG1 can preferentially suppress the decrease in amplification efficiency of the most important transmitted signal among the at least two transmitted signals, while allowing the decrease in amplification efficiency of the other transmitted signals.

[0045] The first tuning circuit TNG1 can also be connected between multiple power amplifier circuits PA1, PA2, ..., PAi and the transmit output switch SW2. That is, the first tuning circuit TNG1 can be connected to multiple power amplifier circuits PA1, PA2, ..., PAi, the transmit output switch SW2 can be connected to the first tuning circuit TNG1, and multiple multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj can be connected to the transmit output switch SW2. In this configuration, the impedance matching state can also be adjusted according to the paths of the multiple transmit signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj selected by the transmit output switch SW2.

[0046] Multiple multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj respectively act as filter circuits that allow transmitted signals with different CC values ​​to pass through. The multiplexer can be a duplexer. The power amplifier module 100 for multi-band applications includes at least two multiplexers to amplify and output at least two transmitted signals with different CC values. For example, multiplexer MPX1 allows transmitted signal TX1 to pass through and blocks transmitted signal TX2. Multiplexer MPX2 blocks transmitted signal TX1 but allows transmitted signal TX2 to pass through. Figure 1 In the example shown, j is an integer greater than 3, and the power amplifier module 100 for multi-band applications has j multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj.

[0047] Multiple transmit output terminals ANT1, ANT2, ..., ANTj are connected to multiple multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj, respectively, outputting multiple transmit signals TX1, TX2, ..., TXj. These transmit output terminals ANT1, ANT2, ..., ANTj are also connected to external antennas. For example, transmit output terminal ANT1 outputs the transmit signal TX1 from multiplexer MPX1, and transmit output terminal ANT2 outputs the transmit signal TX2 from multiplexer MPX2. The multiple transmit output terminals ANT1, ANT2, ..., ANTj can also input multiple receive signals RX1, RX2, ..., RXk to the multiple multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj.

[0048] The following describes other embodiments. In each of the following embodiments, matters common to the first embodiment will be omitted, and only the differences will be described. Structures labeled with the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment have the same structure and function as those in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions are omitted. The same effects based on the same structure will not be mentioned again.

[0049] <Second Implementation Method>

[0050] Next, refer to Figure 2 The structure of the power amplifier module 200 for multi-band operation according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 2 This is a block diagram that schematically illustrates the circuit structure of the power amplifier module for multi-band operation according to the second embodiment.

[0051] The power amplifier module 200 for multi-band applications includes: multiple transmit input terminals IN1, IN2, ..., INh; transmit input switch SW1; multiple power amplifier circuits PA1, PA2, ..., PAi; transmit output switch SW2; first tuning circuit TNG1; multiple multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj; and multiple transmit output terminals ANT1, ..., ANTp.

[0052] The multi-band power amplifier module 200 also includes an antenna switch SW3. The antenna switch SW3 switches the paths between multiple multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj and multiple transmit output terminals ANT1, ..., ANTp. Figure 2 In the configuration example shown, p is an integer greater than or equal to 2, and the multi-band power amplifier module 200 should have p transmit output terminals ANT1, ..., ANTp. However, the multi-band power amplifier module 200 only needs to have at least one transmit output terminal. That is, as long as 1 ≤ p ≤ j.

[0053] As an example, when the frequencies of the transmit signals TX1 and TX2 output from multiplexer MPX1 and MPX2 are close, antenna switch SW3 can output both transmit signals TX1 and TX2 to a single transmit output terminal ANT1 and transmit them from the same external antenna. This reduces the number of transmit output terminals p.

[0054] <Third Implementation Method>

[0055] Next, refer to Figure 3 The structure of the multi-band power amplifier module 300 according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 3 This is a block diagram that schematically illustrates the circuit structure of the power amplifier module for multi-band applications according to the third embodiment.

[0056] The multi-band power amplifier module 300 includes: multiple transmit input terminals IN1, IN2, ..., INh; transmit input switch SW1; multiple power amplifier circuits PA1, PA2, ..., PAi; transmit output switch SW2; first tuning circuit TNG1; multiple multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj; antenna switch SW3; and multiple transmit output terminals ANT1, ..., ANTp.

[0057] The power amplifier module 300 for multi-band applications also includes: a receiver input switch SW4; a second tuning circuit TNG2; multiple low-noise amplifier circuits LNA1, LNA2, ..., LNAm; and multiple receiver output terminals OUT1, OUT2, ..., OUTn.

[0058] The receive input switch SW4 outputs each of the multiple received signals RX1, RX2, ..., RXk input from the multiple transmit output terminals ANT1, ..., ANTp via multiple multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj to one of the multiple low-noise amplifier circuits LNA1, LNA2, ..., LNAm. By including the receive input switch SW4, the multi-band power amplifier module 300 can selectively input each of the multiple received signals RX1, RX2, ..., RXk to a suitable power amplifier circuit. Even if the CC of the multiple received signals RX1, RX2, ..., RXk input to the multi-band power amplifier module 300 changes, the receive input switch SW4 can switch the path according to the change in CC. This suppresses the decrease in amplification efficiency of the received signal. Alternatively, the receive input switch SW4 can be omitted. That is, a specific multiplexer can be fixedly connected to each of the multiple power amplifier circuits.

[0059] The receive input switch SW4 can input two or more received signals into a single low-noise amplifier circuit, or it can input each of the two or more received signals into a different low-noise amplifier circuit. For example, when the frequencies of the common junctions (CCs) of received signals RX1 and RX2 are close, or when their CCs are in the same frequency band, the receive input switch SW4 outputs received signals RX1 and RX2 to low-noise amplifier circuit LNA1. Furthermore, when the CCs of received signals RX1 and RX2 are separate, the receive input switch SW4 inputs received signal RX1 to low-noise amplifier circuit LNA1 and outputs received signal RX2 to low-noise amplifier circuit LNA2.

[0060] The second tuning circuit TNG2 adjusts the impedance matching between multiple multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj and multiple low-noise amplifier circuits LNA1, LNA2, ..., LNAm. The second tuning circuit TNG2 is connected between the receive input switch SW4 and the multiple low-noise amplifier circuits LNA1, LNA2, ..., LNAm. By incorporating the second tuning circuit TNG2, the multi-band power amplifier module 300 can suppress the decrease in amplification efficiency of the received signal caused by changes in the matching state between the output impedance and load impedance of the low-noise amplifier circuits. For example, in a structure where the receive input switch SW4 is equipped with the ability to select the path connecting the multiplexer and the low-noise amplifier circuit, even if the impedance matching between the multiplexer and the low-noise amplifier circuit changes due to the path selected by the receive input switch SW4, the second tuning circuit TNG2 can appropriately adjust the impedance matching.

[0061] As an example, when multiplexers MPX1 and MPX2 are simultaneously connected to the noise amplifier circuit LNA1 via the receive input switch SW4, the impedance matching state changes compared to the case where only multiplexer MPX1 is connected to the low-noise amplifier circuit LNA1. Let's assume that when only multiplexer MPX1 is connected to the low-noise amplifier circuit LNA1, the circuit design is such that the output impedance of the low-noise amplifier circuit LNA1 matches the load impedance. In this case, by having the second tuning circuit TNG2 match the impedance based on this change in impedance matching state, the decrease in the amplification efficiency of the received signal RX1 when both multiplexers MPX1 and MPX2 are connected to the low-noise amplifier circuit LNA1 can be suppressed.

[0062] Alternatively, the second tuning circuit TNG2 can also be connected between multiple multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj and the receive input switch SW4. That is, the second tuning circuit TNG2 can be connected to multiple multiplexers MPX1, MPX2, ..., MPXj, the receive input switch SW4 can be connected to the second tuning circuit TNG2, and multiple low-noise amplifier circuits LNA1, LNA2, ..., LNAm can be connected to the receive input switch SW4. In this configuration, the impedance matching state can also be adjusted according to the paths of the multiple received signals RX1, RX2, ..., RXk selected by the receive input switch SW4.

[0063] Multiple low-noise amplifier circuits LNA1, LNA2, ..., LNAm amplify and output each of the multiple received signals RX1, RX2, ..., RXk. Figure 3 In the example shown, m is an integer greater than 3, indicating that the multi-band power amplifier module 300 has m low-noise amplifier circuits LNA1, LNA2, ..., LNAm. Figure 3 In the example configuration shown, the number m of low-noise amplifier circuits is an integer greater than or equal to 3, and is the same number as the number of received signals k. That is, m = k. However, for a multi-band power amplifier module 300, only one low-noise amplifier circuit is required. Multiple received signals can be amplified by one low-noise amplifier circuit, so it is sufficient that 1 ≤ m ≤ k.

[0064] Multiple receive output terminals OUT1, OUT2, ..., OUTn are terminals that output each of the multiple received signals RX1, RX2, ..., RXk that have been amplified in multiple low-noise amplifier circuits LNA1, LNA2, ..., LNAm. The multiple receive output terminals OUT1, OUT2, ..., OUTn are connected to the multiple low-noise amplifier circuits LNA1, LNA2, ..., LNAm. Figure 3In the example configuration shown, the number of receive output terminals, n, is 3 or more, which is the same number as the number of low-noise amplifier circuits, m. That is, n = m. However, for a multi-band power amplifier module 300, it is sufficient to have at least one receive output terminal, as long as 1 ≤ m ≤ k.

[0065] <Simulation Evaluation>

[0066] Next, refer to Figures 4-7 Simulation evaluations of the effects obtained in the multi-band power amplification modules 100, 200, and 300 involved in various implementations are explained. Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating the circuit structure of an embodiment. Figure 5 This is a block diagram showing the circuit structure of a comparative example. Figure 6 This is a graph showing the simulation results for frequency band 5. Figure 7 This is a graph showing the simulation results for frequency band 12.

[0067] like Figure 4 As shown, the circuit of this embodiment includes a transmit input terminal IN, a power amplifier circuit PA, a transmit output switch SW, a tuning circuit TNG, two multiplexers MPX-B5 and MPX-B12, and two transmit output terminals ANT-B5 and ANT-B12. The transmit output switch SW connects the power amplifier circuit PA and the multiplexer MPX-B5, and also connects the power amplifier circuit PA and the multiplexer MPX-B12. In this circuit, a transmit signal TX-B5 for frequency band 5 (uplink 824MHz-849MHz) and a transmit signal TX-B12 for frequency band 12 (uplink 699MHz-716MHz) are simultaneously input from the transmit input terminal IN. The transmit signal TX-B5 is output from the transmit output terminal ANT-B5 via the multiplexer MPX-B5. The transmit signal TX-B12 is output from the transmit output terminal ANT-B12 via the multiplexer MPX-B12.

[0068] like Figure 5 As shown, the comparative example omits the structure of the tuning circuit TNG from the embodiment. In the comparative example, the transmit signal TX-B5 of band 5 and the transmit signal TX-B12 of band 12 are simultaneously input from the transmit input terminal IN. Furthermore, the path between the power amplifier circuit PA and the multiplexer MPX-B5 is configured such that when the multiplexer MPX-B5 is connected to the power amplifier circuit PA alone without the tuning circuit, the output impedance of the power amplifier circuit PA matches the load impedance. Similarly, the path between the power amplifier circuit PA and the multiplexer MPX-B12 is configured such that when the multiplexer MPX-B12 is connected to the power amplifier circuit PA alone without the tuning circuit, the output impedance of the power amplifier circuit PA matches the load impedance.

[0069] Using the S-parameters of the multiplexer MPX-B5 connected solely to the power amplifier circuit PA without a tuning circuit as a benchmark, the S-parameters of the transmit output terminal ANT-B5 side in both the embodiment and the comparative example were simulated. Similarly, using the S-parameters of the multiplexer MPX-B12 connected solely to the power amplifier circuit PA without a tuning circuit as a benchmark, the S-parameters of the transmit output terminal ANT-B12 side in both the embodiment and the comparative example were simulated.

[0070] like Figure 6 As shown, the S-parameters on the ANT-B5 side of the transmit output terminal in this embodiment are improved compared to the S-parameters on the ANT-B5 side of the transmit output terminal in the comparative example. Figure 7 As shown, the S-parameters on the transmit output terminal ANT-B12 side in the embodiment are improved compared to the S-parameters on the transmit output terminal ANT-B12 side in the comparative example.

[0071] As described above, according to one aspect of the present invention, a power amplifier module for handling multiple frequency bands is provided, comprising: at least one transmit input terminal; at least one power amplifier circuit for receiving a first transmit signal and a second transmit signal from the at least one transmit input terminal; a first filter circuit for passing the first transmit signal; a second filter circuit for passing the second transmit signal; at least one transmit output terminal for outputting the first transmit signal and the second transmit signal output from the first filter circuit and the second filter circuit; a transmit output switch for outputting the first transmit signal and the second transmit signal output from the at least one power amplifier circuit to the first filter circuit or the second filter circuit, respectively; and a first tuning circuit for adjusting the impedance matching between the at least one power amplifier circuit and the at least one transmit output terminal.

[0072] According to the above method, the tuning circuit can suppress the decrease in transmission signal amplification efficiency caused by changes in the matching state between the output impedance and load impedance of the power amplifier circuit. Furthermore, the transmit output switch allows each of the multiple transmit signals to be selectively input to a suitable filter circuit. Even if the control impedance (CC) of the multiple transmit signals output from each of the multiple power amplifier circuits changes, the transmit output switch can switch the path according to the change in CC. Therefore, each transmit signal can be output to the optimal filter circuit, reducing transmission signal loss. Moreover, even if the matching state between the output impedance and load impedance of the power amplifier circuit changes due to the path selected by the transmit output switch, the tuning circuit can appropriately adjust the impedance matching. Because the transmit output switch can distribute the transmit signal, the number of power amplifier circuits can be reduced to fewer than the number of filter circuits. This allows for miniaturization and cost reduction of multi-band power amplifier modules.

[0073] It may also include a transmit input switch, which outputs a first transmit signal and a second transmit signal input from at least one transmit input terminal to one of at least one power amplifier circuit. This allows each of the multiple transmit signals to be selectively input to a suitable power amplifier circuit. Even if the control frequency (CC) of the multiple transmit signals input to the multi-band power amplifier module changes, the transmit input switch can switch the path according to the change in CC. This suppresses the decrease in the amplification efficiency of the transmit signals. Furthermore, because the transmit input switch can distribute the transmit signals, the number of power amplifier circuits can be reduced to the number of transmit input terminals. This allows for miniaturization and cost reduction of the multi-band power amplifier module.

[0074] Alternatively, at least one power amplifier circuit may have a first power amplifier circuit capable of amplifying both the first transmitted signal and the second transmitted signal, and a transmit output switch simultaneously selects a first path for outputting the first transmitted signal from the first power amplifier circuit to a first filter circuit and a second path for outputting the second transmitted signal from the first power amplifier circuit to a second filter circuit. This allows the number of power amplifier circuits to be less than the number of filter circuits. Furthermore, it enables miniaturization and cost reduction of multi-band power amplifier modules.

[0075] The first tuning circuit can adjust the impedance based on the change in impedance matching state in each of the following cases: when the transmit output switch selects only the first path, and when the transmit output switch selects both the first and second paths. Therefore, even if multiple filter circuits are connected to a power amplifier circuit via the transmit output switch, the decrease in the amplification efficiency of the transmitted signal in the power amplifier circuit can be suppressed.

[0076] The first tuning circuit can also be connected between the transmit output switch and the first filter circuit and the second filter circuit.

[0077] According to another aspect of the present invention, a power amplifier module for handling multiple frequency bands is provided, comprising: at least one transmit input terminal for inputting a first transmit signal and a second transmit signal; at least one power amplifier circuit for inputting the first transmit signal and the second transmit signal from the at least one transmit input terminal; a first filter circuit for allowing the first transmit signal to pass through; a second filter circuit for allowing the second transmit signal to pass through; at least one transmit output terminal for outputting the first transmit signal and the second transmit signal output from the first filter circuit and the second filter circuit; a transmit input switch for outputting the first transmit signal and the second transmit signal input from the at least one transmit input terminal to one of the at least one power amplifier circuits; and a first tuning circuit for adjusting the impedance matching between the at least one power amplifier circuit and the at least one transmit output terminal.

[0078] According to the above method, the tuning circuit can suppress the decrease in transmission signal amplification efficiency caused by changes in the matching state between the output impedance and load impedance of the power amplifier circuit. The transmit input switch can selectively input each of the multiple transmit signals to a suitable power amplifier circuit. Even if the control impedance (CC) of the multiple transmit signals input to the multi-band power amplifier module changes, the transmit input switch can switch the path according to the change in CC. Therefore, the decrease in transmission signal amplification efficiency can be suppressed. Furthermore, because the transmit input switch can distribute the transmit signals, the number of power amplifier circuits can be reduced to the number of transmit input terminals. This allows for miniaturization and cost reduction of the multi-band power amplifier module.

[0079] The first tuning circuit can adjust the impedance matching state based on the output level of at least one of the first and second transmitted signals in the at least one power amplifier circuit. Even if the matching state between the output impedance and the load impedance of the power amplifier circuit changes due to variations in the output level, the tuning circuit can correct the impedance matching state. That is, it can suppress the decrease in the amplification efficiency of the transmitted signal caused by the output level in the multi-band power amplifier module. For example, even when the output levels of the first and second transmitted signals are adjusted, such as when the distance between the device equipped with a multi-band power amplifier module and the multiple base stations communicating are different, the decrease in the amplification efficiency of at least one of the first and second transmitted signals can be suppressed.

[0080] The first and second transmitted signals can be contained in the same frequency band. That is to say, a power amplifier module that can handle multiple frequency bands can amplify multiple transmitted signals using either an in-band continuous CA method or an in-band discontinuous CA method.

[0081] The first and second transmitted signals can be contained in different frequency bands. In other words, a power amplifier module that can handle multiple frequency bands can amplify multiple transmitted signals using an inter-band discontinuous amplification (CA) method.

[0082] It may also include an antenna switch that switches the paths between the first and second filter circuits and at least one transmit output terminal. This allows both the first and second transmit signals to be output to a single transmit output terminal and transmitted from the same external antenna. In other words, it reduces the number of transmit output terminals.

[0083] It may also include: at least one low-noise amplifier circuit; a receiving input switch that outputs a first received signal from a first filter circuit and a second received signal from a second filter circuit to one of the at least one low-noise amplifier circuits; and a second tuning circuit that adjusts the impedance matching between the first filter circuit, the second filter circuit and the at least one low-noise amplifier circuit.

[0084] Therefore, by means of a receiver input switch, each of the multiple received signals can be selectively input to a suitable low-noise amplifier circuit. Even if the control (CC) of the multiple received signals input to the power amplifier module that is designed for multi-band operation changes, the receiver input switch can switch the low-noise amplifier circuit for the input received signals according to the change in CC. This suppresses the decrease in the amplification efficiency of the received signal. Furthermore, by means of a tuning circuit, the decrease in the amplification efficiency of the received signal caused by changes in the matching state between the output impedance and the load impedance of the low-noise amplifier circuit can be suppressed. In addition, in the case where the receiver input switch is equipped with a structure that can select the path connecting the filter circuit and the low-noise amplifier circuit, by means of a second tuning circuit that adjusts the impedance matching based on changes in the impedance matching state, the decrease in the amplification efficiency of the first received signal when the first low-noise amplifier circuit is connected to both the first multiplexer and the second multiplexer can be suppressed.

[0085] The second tuning circuit can be connected between the receiving input switch and at least one low-noise amplifier circuit.

[0086] As described above, according to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a multi-band power amplifier module that can improve the amplification efficiency of the transmitted signal.

[0087] Furthermore, the embodiments described above are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The present invention can be modified / improved without departing from its spirit, and the present invention also includes its equivalents. That is, embodiments to which those skilled in the art have appropriately applied design changes are included within the scope of the present invention, provided they possess the features of the present invention. For example, the elements, their configurations, materials, conditions, shapes, dimensions, etc., of each embodiment are not limited to the illustrated elements, their configurations, materials, conditions, shapes, dimensions, etc., and can be appropriately modified. Moreover, the embodiments are illustrative, and it is self-evident that the structures shown in different embodiments can be partially replaced or combined; such substitutions or combinations are included within the scope of the present invention, provided they contain the features of the present invention.

Claims

1. A low-noise amplifier module for multi-frequency bands, comprising: First filter circuit; Second filter circuit; Multiple low-noise amplifier circuits; The input switch receives a first received signal from the first filter circuit and a second received signal from the second filter circuit, respectively, and selectively sends them to different low-noise amplifier circuits among the plurality of low-noise amplifier circuits; and The second tuning circuit adjusts the impedance matching based on changes in the impedance matching state between the first filter circuit, the second filter circuit, and the plurality of low-noise amplifier circuits. The second tuning circuit is connected between the receiving input switch and the plurality of low-noise amplifier circuits.

2. A low-noise amplifier module for multi-frequency bands, comprising: First filter circuit; Second filter circuit; Multiple low-noise amplifier circuits; The input switch receives a first received signal output from the first filter circuit and a second received signal output from the second filter circuit, respectively, and selectively sends them to the same low-noise amplifier circuit among the plurality of low-noise amplifier circuits; and The second tuning circuit adjusts the impedance matching based on changes in the impedance matching state between the first filter circuit, the second filter circuit, and the plurality of low-noise amplifier circuits. The second tuning circuit is connected between the receiving input switch and the plurality of low-noise amplifier circuits.

3. A low-noise amplifier module for multi-frequency bands, comprising: First filter circuit; Second filter circuit; Multiple low-noise amplifier circuits; The input switch receives a first received signal output from the first filter circuit and a second received signal output from the second filter circuit, respectively, and selectively sends them to one of the plurality of low-noise amplifier circuits. as well as The second tuning circuit adjusts the impedance matching based on changes in the impedance matching state between the first filter circuit, the second filter circuit, and the plurality of low-noise amplifier circuits. The second tuning circuit is connected between the receiving input switch and the plurality of low-noise amplifier circuits. The receiving input switch has: In the first connection state, the first received signal and the second received signal are respectively sent to different low-noise amplifier circuits among the plurality of low-noise amplifier circuits. as well as In the second connection state, the first received signal and the second received signal are respectively sent to the same low-noise amplifier circuit among the plurality of low-noise amplifier circuits. The difference between the frequency of the first received signal member carrier and the frequency of the second received signal member carrier in the first connection state is greater than the difference between the frequency of the first received signal member carrier and the frequency of the second received signal member carrier in the second connection state.

4. The low-noise amplification module for multi-band operation according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, It contains: k filter circuits, including the first filter circuit and the second filter circuit, where k is an integer greater than or equal to 3. The plurality of low-noise amplifier circuits has m low-noise amplifier circuits. The k filter circuits each output one of the k received signals, which contain both the first received signal and the second received signal. 1 < m < k.

5. The low-noise amplification module for multi-band operation according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The receive input switch switches paths based on changes in the component carriers of the first received signal and the second received signal.

6. The low-noise amplification module for multi-band operation according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, It also has: At least one transmit input terminal; and At least one power amplifier circuit receives a first transmission signal and a second transmission signal via the at least one transmission input terminal. The first filter circuit enables the transmission of the first transmitted signal. The second filter circuit enables the transmission of the second transmitted signal. The low-noise amplification module also features: At least one transmit output terminal outputs the first transmit signal and the second transmit signal output from the first filter circuit and the second filter circuit; The output switch selectively transmits a first transmission signal and a second transmission signal output from the at least one power amplifier circuit to the first filter circuit and the second filter circuit, respectively. as well as The first tuning circuit adjusts the impedance matching between the at least one power amplifier circuit and the at least one transmit output terminal.

7. The low-noise amplification module for multi-band operation according to claim 6, wherein, It also has: A transmit input switch outputs the first transmit signal and the second transmit signal, which are input from the at least one transmit input terminal, to one of the at least one power amplifier circuits, respectively.

8. The low-noise amplification module for multi-band operation according to claim 6, wherein, The at least one power amplifier circuit has a first power amplifier circuit capable of amplifying both the first transmitted signal and the second transmitted signal. The transmit output switch simultaneously selects a first path for outputting the first transmit signal from the first power amplifier circuit to the first filter circuit and a second path for outputting the second transmit signal from the first power amplifier circuit to the second filter circuit.

9. The low-noise amplification module for multi-band operation according to claim 8, wherein, The first tuning circuit adjusts the impedance based on the change in impedance matching state in each of the following cases: the transmit output switch selects only the first path and the transmit output switch selects both the first path and the second path.

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