Test method of power amplifier and terminal

Abstract

The application provides a test method and a terminal of a power amplifier. The method comprises the following steps: switching the terminal from a working mode to a test mode; obtaining, through the test mode, power consumption of a first power amplifier on the terminal when output power of the terminal is a preset power. By using the method, when the terminal needs to be tested, the terminal is switched from the working mode to the test mode, and through the test mode, the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal when the output power of the terminal is the preset power can be obtained, so that the test of the first power amplifier integrated in the terminal can be realized, and the power consumption of the first power amplifier in actual use of the terminal can be tested.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of terminal equipment technology, and in particular to a test method and terminal for a power amplifier. Background Technology

[0002] The power amplifier (PA) is a major power consumer in a terminal device. When the terminal is transmitting at full power, in the screen-off state, the PA's power consumption can account for more than 80% of the terminal's total power consumption. Therefore, understanding and optimizing the power amplifier's power consumption will greatly help reduce the terminal's overall power consumption.

[0003] Meanwhile, the power added efficiency (PAE) of a power amplifier is crucial for optimizing its power consumption—it directly determines how much energy the amplifier needs to consume to achieve the same output power. Therefore, optimizing the power amplifier's PAE plays a vital role in optimizing its power consumption performance.

[0004] Currently, common terminal performance testing methods generally only include power consumption testing methods for the entire terminal device, or methods for testing the power consumption and additional efficiency of the PA used in the terminal device alone. In other words, the PA used in the terminal is made into a separate PA evaluation board, and a complete power consumption test system / additional efficiency test system is built to test the power consumption and additional efficiency of the PA used in the terminal under different usage environments.

[0005] However, since the power amplifier's power efficiency (PAE) is directly affected by external evaluation circuitry, the data measured on the PA evaluation board may not accurately reflect the actual operating state of the PA when integrated into the terminal device. Furthermore, directly testing the PA integrated into the terminal device ensures that the obtained PAE is the PAE of the PA actually used in the terminal. Currently, there is no method to test the power consumption / added efficiency of power amplifiers integrated into the terminal device. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a testing method and terminal for a power amplifier, which can enable testing of a power amplifier integrated on a terminal.

[0007] One embodiment of the present invention provides a method for testing a power amplifier, comprising:

[0008] Switch the terminal from working mode to test mode;

[0009] The power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal is obtained when the output power of the terminal is a preset power through the test mode.

[0010] Optionally, the testing method further includes, before switching the terminal from working mode to testing mode:

[0011] When the terminal is in the operating mode and its output power is the preset power, the terminal's first overall power consumption P is detected. U1 ;

[0012] Switching the terminal from working mode to testing mode includes:

[0013] Control the first power amplifier to switch from the operating state to the off state;

[0014] The step of obtaining the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal when the output power of the terminal is a preset power through the test mode includes:

[0015] The second overall power consumption P of the terminal was detected in the test mode. U2 ;

[0016] When the output power of the terminal is determined to be the preset power, the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal is equal to a preset difference; the preset difference is the power consumption P of the first complete unit. U1 With the second overall power consumption P U2 The difference between them.

[0017] Optionally, in the aforementioned testing method, obtaining the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal when the output power of the terminal is a preset power through the test mode includes:

[0018] In the test mode, the output power of the terminal is controlled to a preset power.

[0019] The power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal when the output power of the terminal is the preset power.

[0020] Optionally, in the test method, the terminal further includes a second power amplifier connected in parallel with the first power amplifier, and the parameters of the second power amplifier are the same as those of the first power amplifier.

[0021] When the terminal is in working mode, the first power amplifier is in a line-connected state and the second power amplifier is in a line-disconnected state.

[0022] When the terminal is in test mode, the first power amplifier is in a disconnected state and the second power amplifier is in a connected state.

[0023] Wherein, when the output power of the terminal is obtained to be the preset power, the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal includes:

[0024] In the test mode, when the output power of the terminal is the preset power, the power consumption of the first power amplifier is obtained by detecting the power consumption of the second power amplifier.

[0025] Optionally, the testing method, wherein obtaining the power consumption of the first power amplifier by detecting the power consumption of the second power amplifier includes:

[0026] Detect the current in the branch line where the second power amplifier is located and the supply voltage of the second power amplifier;

[0027] The power consumption of the second power amplifier is obtained based on the current in the branch line where the second power amplifier is located and the supply voltage.

[0028] The power consumption of the first power amplifier is determined to be equal to the power consumption of the second power amplifier.

[0029] Optionally, in the aforementioned test method, two disconnected detection points are provided on the branch line where the second power amplifier is located;

[0030] The detection of the current in the branch line where the second power amplifier is located includes:

[0031] A galvanometer is connected between the two detection positions to detect the current in the branch line where the second power amplifier is located.

[0032] Optionally, in the aforementioned testing method, switching the terminal from working mode to testing mode includes:

[0033] A choke element with a preset ohm value is connected in series on the power supply line of the first power amplifier to switch the terminal from the working mode to the test mode; the choke element includes a resistor and / or a galvanometer.

[0034] Wherein, when the output power of the terminal is obtained to be the preset power, the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal includes:

[0035] When the output power of the terminal is the preset power, the voltage input on the power supply line is obtained, and the current on the power supply line is detected by the current-blocking element;

[0036] The power consumption of the first power amplifier is obtained based on the current and the voltage.

[0037] Optionally, in the aforementioned test method, a resistor connection point is provided on the power supply line of the first power amplifier;

[0038] When the terminal is in working mode, a zero-ohm resistor is connected to the resistor connection position, or the resistor connection position is directly connected through a line.

[0039] When the terminal is in test mode, the current-blocking element is connected in series on the resistor connection position.

[0040] Optionally, in the test method, when the first power amplifier includes at least two power supply lines, a current-blocking element is connected in series on each power supply line of the first power amplifier;

[0041] The process of obtaining the power consumption of the first power amplifier based on the current and the voltage includes:

[0042] The power consumption of the first power amplifier is obtained based on the current and voltage on each of the power supply lines.

[0043] Optionally, the testing method further includes:

[0044] When the output power of the terminal is a preset power, the output power of the first power amplifier is detected;

[0045] The additional efficiency of the first power amplifier is calculated based on its output power and power consumption.

[0046] Optionally, the test method, wherein calculating the additional efficiency of the first power amplifier based on the output power and power consumption of the first power amplifier includes:

[0047] The value obtained by dividing the output power of the first power amplifier by the power consumption of the first power amplifier;

[0048] The obtained numerical value is equivalent to the additional efficiency.

[0049] Optionally, in the test method, detecting the output power of the first power amplifier includes:

[0050] Detect the output power at the antenna connector of the terminal;

[0051] The output power at the antenna connector is determined to be equivalent to the output power of the first power amplifier.

[0052] Another embodiment of the present invention also provides a terminal, comprising:

[0053] A first power amplifier and a second power amplifier connected in parallel with the first power amplifier;

[0054] The parameters of the first power amplifier and the parameters of the second power amplifier are the same.

[0055] The terminal includes a working mode and a test mode. In the working mode, the first power amplifier is in a line-connected state and the second power amplifier is in a line-disconnected state.

[0056] In test mode, the first power amplifier is in a disconnected state, and the second power amplifier is in a connected state.

[0057] Optionally, in the terminal, two disconnection detection bits are provided on the branch line where the second power amplifier is located;

[0058] In the test mode, a galvanometer is connected between the two detection positions.

[0059] This invention also provides a terminal, comprising:

[0060] The first power amplifier has a resistor connection point on its power supply line;

[0061] When the terminal is in working mode, a zero-ohm resistor is connected to the resistor connection position, or the resistor connection position is directly connected through a line.

[0062] When the terminal is in test mode, a choke element with a preset ohm value is connected in series on the resistor connection position.

[0063] Optionally, in the terminal, the current-blocking element includes a resistor and / or a galvanometer.

[0064] Optionally, in the terminal, the first power amplifier includes at least one power supply line;

[0065] In the test mode, a current-blocking element is connected in series on each power supply line of the first power amplifier.

[0066] At least one of the above technical solutions of the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0067] Using the testing method described in this embodiment of the invention, the terminal includes a working mode and a testing mode. When the terminal needs to be tested, the terminal is switched from the working mode to the testing mode. In the testing mode, the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal is obtained when the terminal output power is a preset power, thereby realizing the testing of the first power amplifier integrated inside the terminal, so as to be able to test the power consumption of the first power amplifier when the terminal is actually in use. Attached Figure Description

[0068] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the testing method described in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0069] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the setup structure of a power amplifier using the test method described in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the power amplifier structure in one embodiment;

[0071] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the setup structure of another embodiment of the power amplifier using the test method described in the embodiments of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0072] To make the technical problems, technical solutions and advantages of the present invention clearer, a detailed description will be given below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0073] To address the issue that existing technologies for testing power amplifiers (PAs) used in terminals cannot reflect the actual operating state of the PA when it is integrated into the terminal, the present invention provides a testing method for power amplifiers that can test power amplifiers integrated into the terminal, thereby obtaining the power consumption of the power amplifier during actual use of the terminal.

[0074] One embodiment of the present invention provides a testing method for a power amplifier, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the method includes:

[0075] S110, switch the terminal from working mode to test mode;

[0076] S120, through the test mode, obtain the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal when the output power of the terminal is a preset power.

[0077] Using the testing method described in this embodiment of the invention, the terminal includes a working mode and a testing mode. When the terminal needs to be tested, the terminal is switched from the working mode to the testing mode. Through the testing mode, the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal can be obtained when the terminal output power is a preset power, thereby realizing the testing of the first power amplifier integrated inside the terminal, so as to obtain the power consumption of the first power amplifier when the terminal is actually used.

[0078] It should be noted that the first power amplifier is the power amplifier used by the terminal in the working mode.

[0079] Optionally, the preset power includes the maximum output power P when the terminal is in operating mode. max And / or the first output power P1 when in operating mode, wherein the first output power P1 is less than the maximum output power P max .

[0080] Since the power amplifier's power consumption and / or additional efficiency are highest when the terminal is at its maximum output power, current terminal conformance testing specifications require testing the terminal's performance at maximum output power for targeted optimization. Therefore, one implementation method involves testing the power amplifier's power consumption when the terminal's output power is at its maximum.

[0081] Of course, it is understandable that the power amplifier's power consumption can also be tested when the terminal output power is any output power (such as the first output power P1).

[0082] Since terminal testing typically does not reserve test points for power amplifiers, it is generally not possible to directly test the power consumption and / or additional efficiency of the power amplifier integrated on the terminal. Therefore, in one implementation method, the power consumption and / or additional efficiency of the power amplifier can be indirectly obtained by testing the overall power consumption under different states.

[0083] In one embodiment, optionally, before switching the terminal from working mode to testing mode, the method further includes:

[0084] When the terminal is in the operating mode and its output power is the preset power, the terminal's first overall power consumption P is detected. U1 ;

[0085] Switching the terminal from working mode to testing mode includes:

[0086] Control the first power amplifier to switch from the operating state to the off state;

[0087] The step of obtaining the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal when the output power of the terminal is a preset power through the test mode includes:

[0088] The second overall power consumption P of the terminal was detected in the test mode. U2 ;

[0089] When the output power of the terminal is determined to be the preset power, the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal is equal to a preset difference; the preset difference is the power consumption P of the first complete unit. U1 With the second overall power consumption P U2 The difference between them.

[0090] In this implementation method, the test mode is the operating state with the power amplifier off. The test measures the total power consumption (first total power consumption P) when the terminal's output power is at a preset power level. U1 ), and in test mode, the total power consumption when the first power amplifier is off (the second total power consumption P) U2 The power amplifier power consumption is indirectly obtained by testing the output power of the terminal when it is the preset power.

[0091] For example, when the test power is the maximum output power of the terminal, the specific implementation process of testing the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal includes:

[0092] The control terminal is in normal operating mode, and its output power is at maximum. The total power consumption of the terminal at maximum output power is obtained, denoted as P. UE_max (That is, the first total power consumption P) U1 );

[0093] The first power amplifier is switched from the operating state to the off state, i.e., the first power amplifier is turned off, putting the terminal into test mode; the total power consumption of the terminal in test mode is detected, denoted as P. UE_max-PA-OFF (That is, the second total power consumption P) U1 In this embodiment, during the test mode, the parameters of the terminal can be made the same as the parameters of the maximum output power of the terminal during normal operation mode, so as to obtain the total power consumption of the terminal when the output power of the terminal is at its maximum output power in the test mode.

[0094] When the output power of the terminal is determined to be at its maximum output power, the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal is equal to a preset difference; the preset difference is the power consumption P of the first complete unit. U1 With the second overall power consumption P U2 The difference between them is P. UE_max With P UE_max-PA-OFF The difference;

[0095] Specifically, when the terminal's output power is at its maximum output power, the power consumption P of the first power amplifier is... PA_max The calculation method is as follows: P PA_max =P UE_max- P UE_max-PA-OFF .

[0096] Similarly, when the test power is any output power P1 of the terminal, the specific implementation process of testing the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal includes:

[0097] The control terminal is in normal working mode, and its output power is set to output power P1. The total power consumption of the terminal at output power P1 is obtained, denoted as P0. UE_1 (That is, the first total power consumption P) U1 );

[0098] The first power amplifier is switched from the operating state to the off state, i.e., the first power amplifier is turned off, putting the terminal into test mode; the total power consumption of the terminal in test mode is detected, denoted as P. UE_1-PA-OFF (That is, the second total power consumption P) U1 In this embodiment, during the test mode, the parameters of the terminal can be made the same as those of the terminal when the output power is P1 in the normal working mode, so as to obtain the total power consumption of the terminal when the output power of the terminal is P1 in the test mode.

[0099] When the output power of the terminal is determined to be P1, the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal is equal to a preset difference; the preset difference is the power consumption P of the first overall device. U1 With the second overall power consumption P U2 The difference between them is P. UE_1 With P UE_1-PA-OFF The difference;

[0100] Specifically, when the output power of the terminal is P1, the power consumption P of the first power amplifier is... PA_1 The calculation method is as follows: P PA_1 =P UE_1- P UE_1-PA-OFF .

[0101] The present invention adopts the above-described embodiments. In the working mode, the power amplifier of the terminal is in normal working state; in the test mode, the power amplifier of the terminal is in the off state. By using the power consumption of the whole machine when the output power of the terminal is at the preset power in the working mode, and the power consumption of the whole machine in the test mode, the power consumption of the power amplifier when the output power of the terminal is at the preset power can be indirectly tested and obtained.

[0102] In this embodiment of the invention, optionally, the power consumption of the power amplifier can be further obtained by utilizing the power consumption of the power amplifier when the output power of the terminal obtained by the test is a preset power.

[0103] In one embodiment, optionally, the method further includes:

[0104] When the output power of the terminal is a preset power, the output power of the first power amplifier is detected;

[0105] The additional efficiency of the first power amplifier is calculated based on its output power and power consumption.

[0106] The additional efficiency of the first power amplifier is calculated based on its output power and power consumption, including:

[0107] The value obtained by dividing the output power of the first power amplifier by the power consumption of the first power amplifier;

[0108] The obtained numerical value is equivalent to the additional efficiency.

[0109] Optionally, detecting the output power of the first power amplifier includes:

[0110] Detect the output power at the antenna connector of the terminal;

[0111] The output power at the antenna connector is determined to be equivalent to the output power of the first power amplifier.

[0112] The following provides a detailed description of the specific implementation method for testing the power consumption and additional efficiency of a power amplifier using this method.

[0113] Typically, the power consumption and added efficiency of a power amplifier are related by the following equation:

[0114] PAE1=(P PA_out_1 -P PA_in_1 )÷P PA_1 ;

[0115] Wherein, PAE1 is the additional efficiency of the power amplifier when the terminal is operating at the preset power P1; P PA_out_1 When the terminal is operating at a preset power P1, the output power of the power amplifier is P. PA_in_1 The input power of the power amplifier when the terminal is operating at the preset power P1; P PA_1 The power amplifier's power consumption when the terminal is operating at the preset power P1.

[0116] Generally, the gain of a power amplifier can reach 15-30 dB as the output power changes, i.e., P PA_out_1 The numerical value is usually P PA_in_1 It is 33-1000 times greater than PAE1, therefore, when calculating PAE1, P can generally be used as a reference. PA_in_1 Negligible.

[0117] For example, when the gain is 30dB, ignore P. PA_in_1 The resulting PAE error is approximately P (not negligible). PA_in_1 The calculated PAE1 is 1‰, that is, if P is not ignored. PA_in_1 If PAE1 is calculated to be 10%, then ignore P. PA_in_1 The calculated error of PAE1 is one ten-thousandth, which is the value obtained by 10% × 1‰.

[0118] When the gain is 15dB, ignore P. PA_in_1 The resulting PAE1 error is approximately P (not negligible). PA_in_1 3% of the calculated PAE; that is, if P is not ignored. PA_in_1 If the calculated PAE is 2%, then ignore P. PA_in_1 The calculated PAE error is 0.06%, which is the value obtained by 2% × 3%.

[0119] Therefore, based on the above, since P PA_out_1 The value is much greater than P. PA_in_1 Ignore P PA_in_1 The resulting PAE error is compared to not ignoring P. PA_in_1 The calculated PAE1 can be ignored. To facilitate the determination of the additional efficiency PAE of the power amplifier, in this embodiment of the invention, when the terminal operates at a preset power P1, the additional efficiency PAE1 of the power amplifier can be approximately expressed as:

[0120] PAE1≈P PA_out_1 ÷P PA_1 ;

[0121] Similarly, when the terminal is operating at maximum output power, the power amplifier's additional efficiency (PAE) is... max It can be approximated as:

[0122] PAE max ≈P PA_out_max ÷P PA_max ;

[0123] Among them, P PA_out_max The output power of the power amplifier when the terminal is operating at maximum output power; P PA_max The power amplifier's power consumption when the terminal is operating at maximum output power.

[0124] Alternatively, the output power of the power amplifier can be obtained by connecting a power meter to the output port of the power amplifier.

[0125] Typically, for testing a complete terminal device, only the antenna connector is reserved as a test point at the antenna interface. By connecting a power meter and / or spectrum analyzer to this connector, the overall output power of the terminal at the antenna connector can be measured. However, since test points are generally not reserved at the output port of a power amplifier, it is usually impossible to directly measure the output power P of the power amplifier. PA_out_max or P PA_out_1 .

[0126] There is typically an additional radio frequency path between the power amplifier and the antenna connector, which introduces additional insertion loss, i.e., insertion loss at the power amplifier (PA) back end. Considering that there are generally only passive components between the power amplifier (PA) and the antenna connector, and no additional power consumption is generated, in this embodiment of the invention, the output power at the antenna connector of the terminal is detected to determine that the output power at the antenna connector is equivalent to the output power of the first power amplifier. That is, the output power of the terminal's first power amplifier is obtained using the measured output power at the terminal's antenna connector.

[0127] Therefore, in this embodiment of the invention, when the terminal output power is P1, the additional efficiency PAE1 of the power amplifier can be approximately expressed as PAE1', and the specific calculation method is as follows:

[0128] PAE1'≈P PA_out_1 '÷P PA_1 ;

[0129] Among them, P PA_out_1 'P' represents the terminal output power measured at the terminal antenna connector. PA_1 This represents the power consumption of the power amplifier.

[0130] Using this implementation method, the terminal output power P measured at the terminal antenna connector is utilized. PA_out_1 'Calculating the additional efficiency of the power amplifier can more comprehensively reflect the total additional efficiency of the RF front-end devices in the terminal equipment, excluding the baseband integrated circuit (BBIC) and the RF integrated circuit (RFIC).'

[0131] Based on the above, using the test method described in the embodiments of the present invention, when the terminal output power is at a preset power, the terminal output power can be measured by connecting a power meter and / or a spectrum analyzer to the antenna connector. This terminal output power can be equivalent to the output power of the power amplifier. Based on this, using the total power consumption of the terminal when the output power is at the preset power in the working mode and the total power consumption of the terminal when the output power is at the preset power in the test mode, the power consumption of the power amplifier when the terminal output power is at the preset power can be indirectly measured. Based on the output power and power consumption of the power amplifier when the terminal output power is at the preset power, the additional efficiency PAE1 of the power amplifier when the terminal output power is at the preset power can be calculated.

[0132] Specifically, for example, when the terminal is operating at maximum output power, the specific implementation process for testing the power consumption and additional efficiency of the power amplifier on the terminal includes:

[0133] The control terminal is in normal operating mode, and its output power is at maximum. The total power consumption of the terminal at maximum output power is obtained, denoted as P. UE_max And by connecting a power meter to the antenna connector, the output power P of the terminal at the antenna connector is measured and obtained. UE_out_max ;

[0134] The control terminal is in test mode with the power amplifier off (Test Mode_PA-OFF). The power consumption P of the terminal is measured at this time. UE_max_PA_OFF ;

[0135] According to P UE_max and P UE_max_PA_OFF Calculate the power consumption P of the power amplifier PA_max :P PA_max =P UE_max -P UE_max_PA_OFF ;

[0136] Based on the terminal's output power P at the antenna connector UE_out_max and the power consumption P of the power amplifier PA_max Calculate the additional efficiency (PAE) of the power amplifier. max ':PAE max '≈P UE_out_max ÷P PA_max .

[0137] Similarly, when the terminal operates at the preset output power P1, the specific implementation process for testing the power consumption and additional efficiency of the power amplifier on the terminal includes:

[0138] The control terminal is in normal operating mode, and its output power is set to P1. The total power consumption of the terminal when the output power is P1 is obtained, denoted as P. UE_1 And by connecting a power meter to the antenna connector, the output power P of the terminal at the antenna connector is measured and obtained. UE_out_1 ;

[0139] The control terminal is in test mode with the power amplifier off (Test Mode_PA-OFF). The power consumption P of the terminal is measured at this time. UE_1_PA_OFF ;

[0140] According to P UE_1 and P UE_1_PA_OFF Calculate the power consumption P of the power amplifier PA_1 :P PA_1 =P UE_1 -P UE_1_PA_OFF ;

[0141] Based on the terminal's output power P at the antenna connector UE_out_1 and the power consumption P of the power amplifier PA_1 Calculate the additional efficiency PAE1' of the power amplifier: PAE1'≈P UE_out_1 ÷P PA_1 .

[0142] Optionally, in this embodiment of the invention, when the terminal output power is at a preset power, a power meter and / or spectrum analyzer can be connected to the antenna connector to test and obtain the NR Adjacent Channel Leakage Ratio (ACLR), denoted as NR ACLR. For example, the NR ACLR when the power amplifier is at its maximum output power can be measured.

[0143] In addition to obtaining the power amplifier's power consumption through the aforementioned indirect testing method, another embodiment of the present invention, optionally, can also achieve power consumption testing of the power amplifier by improving the terminal structure.

[0144] In this embodiment, in step S120, obtaining the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal when the output power of the terminal is a preset power through the test mode includes:

[0145] In the test mode, the output power of the terminal is controlled to a preset power.

[0146] The power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal when the output power of the terminal is the preset power.

[0147] In one embodiment, the terminal further includes a second power amplifier connected in parallel with the first power amplifier, and the parameters of the second power amplifier are the same as those of the first power amplifier.

[0148] When the terminal is in working mode, the first power amplifier is in a line-connected state and the second power amplifier is in a line-disconnected state.

[0149] When the terminal is in test mode, the first power amplifier is in a disconnected state and the second power amplifier is in a connected state.

[0150] Wherein, when the output power of the terminal is obtained to be the preset power, the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal includes:

[0151] In the test mode, when the output power of the terminal is the preset power, the power consumption of the first power amplifier is obtained by detecting the power consumption of the second power amplifier.

[0152] Optionally, the parameters of the second power amplifier and the parameters of the first power amplifier respectively include design parameters and / or device parameters. The design parameters refer to the parameters that can be adjusted during the design of the first and second power amplifiers, such as linewidth. The device parameters are generally provided by the wafer foundry and represent the process characteristics of the device, such as the device doping concentration.

[0153] In this embodiment of the invention, the first power amplifier is a power amplifier for the terminal's operation, and the second power amplifier is a power amplifier for testing. The parameters of the first power amplifier are the same as those of the second power amplifier.

[0154] Combination Figure 2 As shown, in the terminal operating circuit, a second power amplifier Q3 is connected in parallel with the first power amplifier Q2; specifically, the first power amplifier Q2 and the second power amplifier Q3 are connected in parallel at the input voltage source V. CC Between the ground terminal and the ground terminal. Optionally, two disconnected detection positions are provided on the branch line where the second power amplifier Q3 is located for testing, for connecting a galvanometer to detect the current on the branch line where the second power amplifier Q3 is located.

[0155] In this implementation, when the terminal is in working mode, the first power amplifier Q2 is in a line-connected state, and the second power amplifier Q3 is in a line-disconnected state. Only the first power amplifier Q2 is in a line-connected state, which is used to meet the normal working requirements of the terminal. Since the second power amplifier Q3 is in a line-disconnected state, it will not affect the working state of the first power amplifier.

[0156] In test mode, the first power amplifier Q2 is in a disconnected state, and the second power amplifier Q3 is in a connected state. A current meter is connected to the detection position on the branch line where the second power amplifier Q3 is located to detect the current on that branch line. By detecting the current on the branch line where the second power amplifier Q3 is located and the supply voltage of the second power amplifier Q3, the power consumption of the second power amplifier Q3 can be obtained. Since the parameters of the second power amplifier Q3 and the first power amplifier Q2 are the same, and the parameters of the terminal during the test are the same as those during normal operation, if the output power of the terminal is the same in both test mode and operating mode (e.g., the maximum output power of the terminal), the power consumption of the first power amplifier Q2 can be determined using the power consumption of the second power amplifier Q3, that is, the power consumption of the first power amplifier Q2 is equal to the power consumption of the second power amplifier Q3.

[0157] Optionally, the first power amplifier Q2 and the second power amplifier Q3 are provided with control bits. By inputting control signals to the control bits, the first power amplifier Q2 and the second power amplifier Q3 are switched between a line disconnected state and a line connected state, respectively.

[0158] Additionally, in test mode, with the output power of the control terminal at the preset power, the supply voltage V is input to the second power amplifier Q3 via a DC voltage source. CC According to the power supply voltage V CC By using a galvanometer to detect the current in the branch where the second power amplifier Q3 is located, the power consumption P of the first power amplifier Q2 when the terminal output power is the preset power can be calculated. PA .

[0159] Furthermore, based on the power consumption P of the aforementioned power amplifier... PA The relationship that needs to be satisfied between PAE1 and additional efficiency is: PAE1 = (P PA_out_1 -P PA_in_1 )÷P PA_1 It can calculate the additional efficiency PAE1 of the power amplifier (first power amplifier) ​​when the terminal is working at the preset power P1.

[0160] Using the method described above for determining the additional efficiency PAE1 of the power amplifier (first power amplifier), similarly, in this embodiment of the invention, when the terminal operates at a preset power P1, the additional efficiency PAE1 of the power amplifier (first power amplifier) ​​can be approximately expressed as:

[0161] PAE1≈P PA_out_1 ÷P PA_1 ;

[0162] Wherein, PAE1 is the additional efficiency of the power amplifier when the terminal is operating at the preset power P1; P PA_out_1 When the terminal is operating at a preset power P1, the output power of the power amplifier is P. PA_in_1 The input power of the power amplifier when the terminal is operating at the preset power P1; P PA_1 The power amplifier's power consumption when the terminal is operating at the preset power P1.

[0163] Similarly, when the terminal is operating at maximum output power, the power amplifier's additional efficiency (PAE) is... max It can be approximated as:

[0164] PAE max ≈P PA_out_max ÷P PA_max ;

[0165] Among them, P PA_out_max The output power of the power amplifier when the terminal is operating at maximum output power; P PA_max The power amplifier's power consumption when the terminal is operating at maximum output power.

[0166] In this embodiment of the invention, optionally, the output power at the antenna connector of the terminal can be detected to determine that the output power at the antenna connector is equivalent to the output power of the power amplifier. That is, the output power of the terminal's power amplifier is obtained by measuring the output power at the terminal's antenna connector. Specific methods and principles can be found in the descriptions of the above embodiments, and will not be detailed here.

[0167] In another embodiment of the present invention, alternatively, in addition to adding a specific power amplifier for testing, when the terminal switches from the working mode to the test mode, the power amplifier can also be tested by setting a current limiting element with a preset ohm value in series on the power supply line of the power amplifier to obtain the power amplifier's power consumption.

[0168] In this embodiment, step S110, switching the terminal from working mode to test mode, includes:

[0169] A choke element with a preset ohm value is connected in series on the power supply line of the first power amplifier to switch the terminal from the working mode to the test mode; the choke element includes a resistor and / or a galvanometer.

[0170] Wherein, when the output power of the terminal is obtained to be the preset power, the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal includes:

[0171] When the output power of the terminal is the preset power, the voltage input on the power supply line is obtained, and the current on the power supply line is detected by the current-blocking element;

[0172] The power consumption of the first power amplifier is obtained based on the current and the voltage.

[0173] Optionally, a resistor connection point is provided on the power supply line of the first power amplifier;

[0174] When the terminal is in working mode, a zero-ohm resistor is connected to the resistor connection position, or the resistor connection position is directly connected through a line.

[0175] When the terminal is in test mode, the current-blocking element is connected in series on the resistor connection position.

[0176] like Figure 3 The diagram shows a schematic of the power amplifier in one embodiment. The power supply Vcc of the power amplifier is independent, so the power consumption of the power amplifier can be obtained separately. That is, the actual power of the power amplifier can be calculated by measuring the current on the power supply line.

[0177] In the test method described in this embodiment of the invention, a resistor R is connected in series with the power supply line of the power amplifier on the terminal circuit board that integrates the power amplifier. test ,like Figure 4 As shown, in normal operating mode, a zero-ohm resistor is connected to the resistor connection point, or the resistor connection point is directly connected through the line, so that there is no voltage drop in the power supply line, so as to ensure that it does not affect the operating state of the power amplifier in operating mode.

[0178] In test mode, a choke element is connected in series with the resistor connection. When the terminal output power is at the preset power, and the choke element is a resistor, the current flowing through the resistor can be indirectly obtained by measuring the voltage drop across it, thus providing the operating current I of the power amplifier. PA When the choke element is a galvanometer, the operating current I of the power amplifier is measured. PA .

[0179] Optionally, in test mode, the resistance value of the choke element connected in series at the resistor connection point should be chosen to not significantly affect the test accuracy, typically within the range of 20-50mΩ. This ensures that when the terminal is in test mode, a voltage drop is generated across the choke element that does not affect the power amplifier's operation. Dividing this voltage drop by the resistance value of the choke element yields the power amplifier's operating current I. PA .

[0180] Using the above implementation method, the operating current I of the power amplifier is obtained through testing. PA Then, using P PA =V CC *I PA The power consumption P of the power amplifier can be calculated. PA .

[0181] Alternatively, for ease of testing, test interfaces can be reserved at both ends of the resistor connection point to facilitate the connection of an ammeter or voltmeter.

[0182] Furthermore, based on the power consumption P of the aforementioned power amplifier... PA The relationship that needs to be satisfied between PAE1 and additional efficiency is: PAE1 = (P PA_out_1 -P PA_in_1 )÷P PA_1 It can calculate the additional efficiency PAE1 of the power amplifier (first power amplifier) ​​when the terminal is working at the preset power P1.

[0183] Using the method described above for determining the additional efficiency PAE1 of the power amplifier (first power amplifier), similarly, in this embodiment of the invention, when the terminal operates at a preset power P1, the additional efficiency PAE1 of the power amplifier (first power amplifier) ​​can be approximately expressed as:

[0184] PAE1≈P PA_out_1 ÷P PA_1 ;

[0185] Wherein, PAE1 is the additional efficiency of the power amplifier when the terminal is operating at the preset power P1; P PA_out_1 When the terminal is operating at a preset power P1, the output power of the power amplifier is P. PA_in_1 The input power of the power amplifier when the terminal is operating at the preset power P1; P PA_1 The power amplifier's power consumption when the terminal is operating at the preset power P1.

[0186] Similarly, when the terminal is operating at maximum output power, the power amplifier's additional efficiency (PAE) is... max It can be approximated as:

[0187] PAE max ≈P PA_out_max ÷P PA_max ;

[0188] Among them, P PA_out_max The output power of the power amplifier when the terminal is operating at maximum output power; P PA_max The power amplifier's power consumption when the terminal is operating at maximum output power.

[0189] In this embodiment of the invention, optionally, the output power at the antenna connector of the terminal can be detected to determine that the output power at the antenna connector is equivalent to the output power of the power amplifier. That is, the output power of the terminal's power amplifier is obtained by measuring the output power at the terminal's antenna connector. Specific methods and principles can be found in the descriptions of the above embodiments, and will not be detailed here.

[0190] In an embodiment of the present invention, optionally, when the first power amplifier (power amplifier) ​​includes at least two power supply lines, the current-blocking element is connected in series on each power supply line of the first power amplifier (power amplifier);

[0191] The process of obtaining the power consumption of the first power amplifier (power amplifier) ​​based on the current and the voltage includes:

[0192] The power consumption of the first power amplifier (power amplifier) ​​is obtained based on the current and voltage on each of the power supply lines.

[0193] When a power amplifier comprises multiple sub-amplifiers, each powered by a different Vcc, the power consumption of the power amplifier is obtained based on the current and voltage on the power supply lines connected to the different Vcc values. Combined with... Figure 3 As shown, when the power amplifier is powered by Vcc1 and Vcc2, the total power consumption of the power amplifier can be obtained by adding the power consumption on Vcc1 and Vcc2.

[0194] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, if the terminal does not have the resistor connection point, the power supply transmission line can be disconnected, and an ammeter can be connected in series to measure the operating current of the power amplifier, thereby calculating the power consumption P of the power amplifier. PA .

[0195] Using the testing method described in this embodiment of the invention, when it is necessary to test the terminal, the terminal is switched from the working mode to the test mode. In the test mode, the terminal is controlled to output a preset power, and the power consumption of the power amplifier on the terminal can be obtained when the terminal outputs the preset power. This enables the testing of the power amplifier integrated inside the terminal, so as to obtain the power consumption of the power amplifier when the terminal is actually in use.

[0196] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a terminal, including:

[0197] A first power amplifier and a second power amplifier connected in parallel with the first power amplifier;

[0198] The parameters of the first power amplifier and the parameters of the second power amplifier are the same.

[0199] The terminal includes a working mode and a test mode. In the working mode, the first power amplifier is in a line-connected state and the second power amplifier is in a line-disconnected state.

[0200] In test mode, the first power amplifier is in a disconnected state, and the second power amplifier is in a connected state.

[0201] Optionally, in the terminal, two disconnection detection bits are provided on the branch line where the second power amplifier is located;

[0202] In the test mode, a galvanometer is connected between the two detection positions.

[0203] The terminal described in this embodiment is used in the test method described above, which involves setting a second power amplifier in parallel with the first power amplifier to test the power consumption of the first power amplifier. For a detailed description of the specific implementation method of using this terminal to test the power consumption of the first power amplifier, please refer to the above description, which will not be repeated here.

[0204] This invention also provides a terminal, comprising:

[0205] The first power amplifier has a resistor connection point on its power supply line;

[0206] When the terminal is in working mode, a zero-ohm resistor is connected to the resistor connection position, or the resistor connection position is directly connected through a line.

[0207] When the terminal is in test mode, a choke element with a preset ohm value is connected in series on the resistor connection position.

[0208] Optionally, in the terminal, the current-blocking element includes a resistor and / or a galvanometer.

[0209] Optionally, in the terminal, the first power amplifier includes at least one power supply line;

[0210] In the test mode, a current-blocking element is connected in series on each power supply line of the first power amplifier.

[0211] The terminal described in this embodiment is used in the test method described above, which involves setting a resistor connection position and connecting a choke element at the resistor connection position to test the power consumption of a first power amplifier. For a detailed description of the specific implementation method of using this terminal to test the power consumption of the first power amplifier, please refer to the above description, which will not be repeated here.

[0212] The above describes the preferred embodiments of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications without departing from the principles of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A test method for a power amplifier, characterized in that, include: Switch the terminal from working mode to test mode; The power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal is obtained when the output power of the terminal is a preset power through the test mode. Before switching the terminal from working mode to testing mode, the method further includes: When the terminal is in the operating mode and its output power is the preset power, the terminal's first overall power consumption P is detected. U1 ; Switching the terminal from working mode to testing mode includes: Control the first power amplifier to switch from the operating state to the off state; The power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal when the output power of the terminal is obtained through the test mode is a preset power includes: The second overall power consumption P of the terminal was detected in the test mode. U2 ; When the output power of the terminal is determined to be the preset power, the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal is equal to the preset difference; the preset difference is the power consumption P of the first complete unit. U1 With the second overall power consumption P U2 The difference between them; or, The terminal also includes a second power amplifier connected in parallel with the first power amplifier, and the parameters of the second power amplifier are the same as those of the first power amplifier. When the terminal is in working mode, the first power amplifier is in a line-connected state and the second power amplifier is in a line-disconnected state. When the terminal is in test mode, the first power amplifier is in a disconnected state and the second power amplifier is in a connected state. Wherein, when the output power of the terminal is obtained to be the preset power, the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal includes: In the test mode, when the output power of the terminal is the preset power, the power consumption of the first power amplifier is obtained by detecting the power consumption of the second power amplifier.

2. The test method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The test mode is used to obtain the power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal when the output power of the terminal is at a preset power. This also includes: In the test mode, the output power of the terminal is controlled to a preset power. The power consumption of the first power amplifier on the terminal when the output power of the terminal is the preset power.

3. The test method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power consumption of the first power amplifier is obtained by detecting the power consumption of the second power amplifier, including: Detect the current in the branch line where the second power amplifier is located and the supply voltage of the second power amplifier; The power consumption of the second power amplifier is obtained based on the current in the branch line where the second power amplifier is located and the supply voltage. The power consumption of the first power amplifier is determined to be equal to the power consumption of the second power amplifier.

4. The test method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The branch line containing the second power amplifier has two disconnection detection points; The detection of the current in the branch line where the second power amplifier is located includes: A galvanometer is connected between the two detection positions to detect the current in the branch line where the second power amplifier is located.

5. The test method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the output power of the terminal is a preset power, the output power of the first power amplifier is detected; The additional efficiency of the first power amplifier is calculated based on its output power and power consumption.

6. The test method according to claim 5, characterized in that, Based on the output power and power consumption of the first power amplifier, calculate the additional efficiency of the first power amplifier, including: The value obtained by dividing the output power of the first power amplifier by the power consumption of the first power amplifier; The obtained numerical value is equivalent to the additional efficiency.

7. The test method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The detection of the output power of the first power amplifier includes: Detect the output power at the antenna connector of the terminal; The output power at the antenna connector is determined to be equivalent to the output power of the first power amplifier.

8. A terminal employing the testing method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The terminal includes: A first power amplifier and a second power amplifier connected in parallel with the first power amplifier; The parameters of the first power amplifier and the parameters of the second power amplifier are the same. The terminal includes a working mode and a test mode. In the working mode, the first power amplifier is in a line-connected state and the second power amplifier is in a line-disconnected state. In test mode, the first power amplifier is in a disconnected state, and the second power amplifier is in a connected state.

9. The terminal according to claim 8, characterized in that, The branch line containing the second power amplifier has two disconnection detection points; In the test mode, a galvanometer is connected between the two detection positions.

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