Transformer power combiner balancing device and control method

Abstract

The invention discloses a transformer power combiner balancing device and a control method. The apparatus includes a first power amplifier having a negative output coupled to a first primary winding of the distributed transformer and a positive output coupled to a second primary winding of the distributed transformer; a second power amplifier having a negative output coupled to a third primary winding of the distributed transformer and a positive output coupled to a fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer; a first conductive element connected between the negative output of the first power amplifier and the negative output of the second power amplifier; and a second conductive element connected between the positive output of the first power amplifier and the positive output of the second power amplifier.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to transformer power combiner balancing devices, and in particular embodiments, to transformer power combiner balancing devices for reducing imbalance between different power amplifiers. Background Art

[0002] Various power combining techniques are used in power amplifiers to provide a signal to be transmitted (eg, a radio frequency signal) with sufficient signal power. A common way to implement power combining is to use a transformer power combiner.

[0003] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a conventional power amplifier system is shown. The power amplifier system includes a transformer power combiner 100 and a plurality of power amplifiers 101 and 102. The transformer power combiner 100 includes primary windings NP1, NP2, NP3 and NP4, and secondary windings NS1, NS2, NS3 and NS4.

[0004] Each power amplifier has an input coupled to an input signal source (not shown). The input of each power amplifier is driven by a differential input signal. Vm1 is the negative output terminal of power amplifier 101. Vp1 is the positive output terminal of power amplifier 101. Vm2 is the negative output terminal of power amplifier 102. Vp2 is the positive output terminal of power amplifier 102.

[0005] like Figure 1 As shown, Vm1 is coupled to a first end of a first primary winding NP1. A second end of the first primary winding NP1 is coupled to a bias voltage VDD. Vp1 is coupled to a first end of a second primary winding NP2. A second end of the second primary winding NP2 is coupled to VDD. Vm2 is coupled to a first end of a third primary winding NP3. A second end of the third primary winding NP3 is coupled to VDD. Vp2 is coupled to a first end of a fourth primary winding NP4. A second end of the fourth primary winding NP4 is coupled to VDD.

[0006] The first secondary winding NS1 is magnetically coupled to the first primary winding NP1. The second secondary winding NS2 is magnetically coupled to the second primary winding NP2. The third secondary winding NS3 is magnetically coupled to the third primary winding NP3. The fourth secondary winding NS4 is magnetically coupled to the fourth primary winding NP4. The first secondary winding NS1, the second secondary winding NS2, the third secondary winding NS3 and the fourth secondary winding NS4 are connected in series between the output terminal Vo and the ground.

[0007] Assuming that the turns ratio of each transformer is 1:1, the output voltage between the output terminal and ground is equal to the sum of the input voltages at the input terminals of the transformer power combiner 100 .

[0008] Figure 2Shows Figure 1 Layout of primary windings and secondary windings of a conventional power amplifier system shown. The layout of the primary windings is shown in the dashed rectangular frame 202. A first primary winding NP1, a second primary winding NP2, a third primary winding NP3, and a fourth primary winding NP4 are formed on a first metal layer. The four primary windings form an octagonal geometric shape with two openings. The two ends of the upper opening serve as a first negative port and a first positive port. The first negative port and the first positive port are coupled to Vm1 and Vp1, respectively. The two ends of the lower opening serve as a second negative port and a second positive port. The second negative port and the second positive port are coupled to Vm2 and Vp2, respectively.

[0009] The first primary winding NP1 and the fourth primary winding NP4 form a first metal trace extending from the first negative port to the second positive port. The center tap of the first metal trace is coupled to VDD. The second primary winding NP2 and the third primary winding NP3 form a second metal trace extending from the first positive port to the second negative port. The center tap of the second metal trace is coupled to VDD.

[0010] The layout of the secondary winding is shown in the dashed rectangular box 204. The first secondary winding NS1, the second secondary winding NS2, the third secondary winding NS3 and the fourth secondary winding NS4 are formed on the second metal layer. The first secondary winding NS1, the second secondary winding NS2, the third secondary winding NS3 and the fourth secondary winding NS4 form a third metal trace with an octagonal geometry with an opening. The two ends of the opening are Vo and GND respectively. The third trace extends from Vo to GND.

[0011] Figure 3 The layout of the secondary winding stacked on the primary winding is shown. The second metal layer is formed over the first metal layer. The third metal trace formed by NS1, NS2, NS3 and NS4 is located over the first metal trace and the second metal trace.

[0012] like Figure 3 As shown, the opening of the secondary winding is located to the right of the primary winding. In operation, the secondary winding may cause left-right asymmetry of the power amplifier and the transformer power combiner 100. This left-right asymmetry may cause additional stress on the power amplifier, thereby preventing the transformer power combiner from achieving better power combining efficiency. It is best to have a simple and reliable device to reduce the imbalance between different power amplifiers. Summary of the invention

[0013] Preferred embodiments of the present application provide a transformer power combiner balancing device for reducing imbalances between different power amplifiers, thereby generally solving or circumventing these and other problems and generally achieving technical advantages.

[0014] According to one embodiment, a device includes: a first power amplifier having a negative output terminal coupled to a first primary winding of a distributed transformer and a positive output terminal coupled to a second primary winding of the distributed transformer; a second power amplifier having a negative output terminal coupled to a third primary winding of the distributed transformer and a positive output terminal coupled to a fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer; a first conductive element connected between the negative output terminal of the first power amplifier and the negative output terminal of the second power amplifier; and a second conductive element connected between the positive output terminal of the first power amplifier and the positive output terminal of the second power amplifier.

[0015] According to another embodiment, a method includes: forming a primary winding of a distributed transformer on a first metal layer, wherein the first primary winding and the second primary winding of the distributed transformer are configured to be coupled to the negative output terminal and the positive output terminal of the first power amplifier, respectively, and the third primary winding and the fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer are configured to be coupled to the negative output terminal and the positive output terminal of the second power amplifier, respectively, forming a secondary winding of the distributed transformer on a second metal layer, configuring the first conductive element to be connected between the negative output terminal of the first power amplifier and the negative output terminal of the second power amplifier, and configuring the second conductive element to be connected between the positive output terminal of the first power amplifier and the positive output terminal of the second power amplifier.

[0016] According to another embodiment, a system includes: a first power amplifier having a negative output terminal coupled to a first primary winding of a distributed transformer and a positive output terminal coupled to a second primary winding of the distributed transformer; a second power amplifier having a negative output terminal coupled to a third primary winding of the distributed transformer and a positive output terminal coupled to a fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer; a first conductive element connected between the negative output terminal of the first power amplifier and the negative output terminal of the second power amplifier; a second conductive element connected between the positive output terminal of the first power amplifier and the positive output terminal of the second power amplifier; a first secondary winding of the distributed transformer, magnetically coupled to the first primary winding of the distributed transformer; a second secondary winding of the distributed transformer, magnetically coupled to the second primary winding of the distributed transformer; a third secondary winding of the distributed transformer, magnetically coupled to the third primary winding of the distributed transformer; and a fourth secondary winding of the distributed transformer, magnetically coupled to the fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer, wherein the first secondary winding, the second secondary winding, the third secondary winding and the fourth secondary winding of the distributed transformer are connected in series between the first output terminal and the second output terminal.

[0017] The foregoing summarizes the features and technical advantages of the present application in order to better understand the following detailed description of the present application. The following will describe additional features and advantages of the present application, which form the subject matter of the claims of the present application. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the disclosed concepts and specific embodiments can be easily used as the basis for modifying or designing other structures or processes for achieving the same purpose as the present application. It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present application as set forth in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] For a more complete understanding of the present application and its advantages, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0019] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a conventional power amplifier system is shown;

[0020] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 The layout of the primary winding and the secondary winding of the conventional power amplifier system is shown;

[0021] Figure 3 shows the layout of the secondary winding stacked on the primary winding;

[0022] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a transformer power combiner system according to various embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0023] Figure 5 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The layout of the first implementation of the transformer power combiner balancing device shown in;

[0024] Figure 6 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The layout of the second implementation of the transformer power combiner balancing device shown in;

[0025] Figure 7 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The layout of the third implementation of the transformer power combiner balancing device shown in;

[0026] Figure 8 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The layout of the fourth implementation of the transformer power combiner balancing device shown in;

[0027] Fig. 9 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The layout of the fifth implementation of the transformer power combiner balancing device shown in;

[0028] Fig.10 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The layout of the sixth implementation of the transformer power combiner balancing device shown in;

[0029] Fig.11 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The layout of the seventh implementation of the transformer power combiner balancing device shown in;

[0030] Fig.12 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The layout of the eighth implementation of the transformer power combiner balancing device shown in;

[0031] Fig.13 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The layout of the ninth implementation of the transformer power combiner balancing device shown in;

[0032] Fig.14 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The layout of the tenth implementation of the transformer power combiner balancing device shown in;

[0033] Fig.15 Shows Fig.14 Schematic diagram of an adjustable capacitance element combined with various embodiments of the present application as shown in ;

[0034] Fig.16 A schematic diagram of another transformer power combiner system according to various embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0035] Fig.17 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Fig.15 The layout of the transformer power combiner balancing device is shown;

[0036] Fig.18 A schematic diagram of another transformer power combiner system according to various embodiments of the present application is shown;

[0037] Fig.19 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Fig.18 The layout of the transformer power combiner balance device shown; and

[0038] Fig. 20 The formation of various embodiments according to the present application is shown as follows Figure 4 Flowchart of the transformer power combiner system shown.

[0039] Corresponding numerals and symbols in the different figures generally refer to corresponding parts unless otherwise indicated.The figures are drawn to clearly illustrate the relevant aspects of the various embodiments and are not necessarily drawn to scale. Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments

[0040] The manufacture and use of the current preferred embodiment will be discussed in detail below. However, it should be understood that the present application provides many applicable inventive concepts that can be embodied in a variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed are merely to illustrate the specific ways to manufacture and use the present application, and do not limit the scope of the present application.

[0041] The present application will be described in a specific context with respect to a preferred embodiment, namely a transformer power combiner balancing device for reducing an imbalance between two different power amplifiers. However, the present application may also be applied to a transformer power combiner balancing device for reducing an imbalance between a plurality of power amplifiers. In the following, various embodiments will be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a transformer power combiner system according to various embodiments of the present application is shown. The transformer power combiner system includes a plurality of power amplifiers 101, 102 and a transformer power combiner 100. The transformer power combiner 100 includes primary windings NP1, NP2, NP3 and NP4, and secondary windings NS1, NS2, NS3 and NS4. The primary windings NP1, NP2, NP3 and NP4 are coupled to the outputs of the power amplifiers 101 and 102. The secondary windings NS1, NS2, NS3 and NS4 are connected in series between the output port Vo and the ground. Therefore, the voltages from the plurality of power amplifiers 101 and 102 are effectively combined in series at the output terminal Vo. Figure 4 The transformer power combiner 100 shown is also referred to as a distributed transformer. Throughout the description, the transformer power combiner 100 may alternatively be referred to as a distributed transformer 100.

[0043] To reduce unwanted harmonics (e.g., even harmonics), power amplifiers 101 and 102 are driven differentially. In some embodiments, each power amplifier processes an input differential signal and generates an output signal at a positive output terminal and a negative output terminal. Figure 4 As shown, Vm1 represents the negative output terminal of the first power amplifier 101. Vp1 represents the positive output terminal of the first power amplifier 101. Vm2 represents the negative output terminal of the second power amplifier 102. Vp2 represents the positive output terminal of the second power amplifier 102.

[0044] like Figure 4As shown, the negative output terminal Vm1 of the first power amplifier 101 is coupled to the first end of the first primary winding NP1. The second end of the first primary winding NP1 is coupled to the pre-bias voltage VDD. The positive output terminal Vp1 of the first power amplifier 101 is coupled to the first end of the second primary winding NP2. The second end of the second primary winding NP2 is coupled to the pre-bias voltage VDD.

[0045] The negative output terminal Vm2 of the second power amplifier 102 is coupled to the first end of the third primary winding NP3. The second end of the third primary winding NP3 is coupled to the pre-bias voltage VDD. The positive output terminal Vp2 of the second power amplifier 102 is coupled to the first end of the fourth primary winding NP4. The second end of the fourth primary winding NP4 is coupled to the predetermined bias voltage VDD.

[0046] It should be noted that Figure 4 The VDD connection shown is only an example and should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. Those skilled in the art will recognize many variations, substitutions, and modifications. For example, some amplifier configurations may feed the supply current independently of the transformer, depending on different applications and design requirements. For those power amplifiers, the VDD connection may be different.

[0047] The first conductive element 401 is connected between the negative output terminal Vm1 of the first power amplifier 101 and the negative output terminal Vm2 of the second power amplifier 102. The second conductive element 402 is connected between the positive output terminal Vp1 of the first power amplifier 101 and the positive output terminal Vp2 of the second power amplifier 102. In some embodiments, the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402 are made of a suitable conductive material (e.g., copper).

[0048] like Figure 4 As shown, the first secondary winding NS1 is magnetically coupled to the first primary winding NP1. The second secondary winding NS2 is magnetically coupled to the second primary winding NP2. The third secondary winding NS3 is magnetically coupled to the third primary winding NP3. The fourth secondary winding NS4 is magnetically coupled to the fourth primary winding NP4. Figure 4 As shown, the first secondary winding NS1, the second secondary winding NS2, the third secondary winding NS3 and the fourth secondary winding NS4 are connected in series between the first output terminal and the second output terminal. The first output terminal is the output of the distributed transformer. In some embodiments, the output of the distributed transformer is coupled to the load. The second output terminal is grounded.

[0049] return Figure 3, the opening of the secondary winding is located to the right of the primary winding. In operation, the secondary winding may cause left-right asymmetry on the distributed transformer 100. In addition, one output terminal of the distributed transformer 100 is grounded. This may cause asymmetric swings on the output of the distributed transformer 100. In some embodiments, the primary winding may be formed on a first metal layer on a semiconductor substrate. The secondary winding may be formed on a second metal layer above the first metal layer. Distributed capacitance may exist between the two metal layers, allowing unwanted induced current to flow. The induced current may change the impedance of each output terminal of the power amplifier, resulting in slightly different output voltage swings. The different output voltage swings may prevent the power amplifier from delivering more power.

[0050] An advantageous feature of connecting the first conductive element 401 between Vm1 and Vm2 is that Vm1 and Vm2 can be forced to be at the same voltage potential. Similarly, the second conductive element 402 connected between Vp1 and Vp2 can force the voltage of Vp1 to be equal to the voltage of Vp2. Therefore, each power amplifier can drive the input terminal pair of the distributed transformer equally. For example, before adding the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402, the ratio of (Vp1-Vm1) to (Vp2-Vm2) is equal to 1.18. Figure 4 As shown, after adding the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402, the ratio of (Vp1-Vm1) to (Vp2-Vm2) is equal to 0.96. The difference in this ratio indicates that the imbalance between the two power amplifiers has been improved.

[0051] The first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402 are used as a transformer power combiner balancing device. Throughout the description, the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402 may be collectively referred to as a transformer power combiner balancing device.

[0052] In some embodiments, the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402 adopt a symmetrical structure, including two groups of parallel lines and an X-shaped cross connected between the two groups of parallel lines. Figure 5-6 The detailed structure of the transformer power combiner balancing device is discussed.

[0053] In some embodiments, the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402 adopt a symmetrical structure, including two groups of parallel lines and three X-shaped crosses. The three X-shaped crosses and the two groups of parallel lines are arranged in an alternating manner. Figure 7-8 The detailed structure of the transformer power combiner balancing device is discussed.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402 adopt a symmetrical structure, including a set of parallel lines and an X-shaped cross. Figure 9-10 The detailed structure of the transformer power combiner balancing device is discussed.

[0055] In some embodiments, the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402 adopt a symmetrical structure, including two sets of parallel lines and an X-shaped cross connected between the two sets of parallel lines. In order to achieve a predetermined impedance, an inductor element and a capacitor element can be added to the parallel line. Figure 11-12 The detailed structure of the transformer power combiner balancing device is discussed.

[0056] Figure 5 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 Layout of a first implementation of a transformer power combiner balancing device as shown in . The layout of the primary winding and the transformer power combiner balancing device is shown in the dashed rectangular box 502. In some embodiments, a first primary winding NP1, a second primary winding NP2, a third primary winding NP3, and a fourth primary winding NP4 are formed on a first metal layer. The first metal layer is colored gray. The four primary windings form an octagonal geometric shape with two openings. The two ends of the upper opening serve as a first negative port and a first positive port. As shown Figure 5 As shown, the first negative port and the first positive port are coupled to Vm1 and Vp1 respectively. Both ends of the lower opening serve as the second negative port and the second positive port. Figure 5 As shown, the second negative port and the second positive port are coupled to Vm2 and Vp2, respectively.

[0057] like Figure 5 As shown, the first primary winding NP1 and the fourth primary winding NP4 form a first metal trace extending from a first negative port (Vm1) coupled to the negative terminal of the first power amplifier 101 to a second positive port (Vp2) coupled to the positive terminal of the second power amplifier 102. A center tap of the first metal trace is coupled to a pre-bias voltage VDD.

[0058] like Figure 5 As shown, the second primary winding NP2 and the third primary winding NP3 form a second metal trace extending from a first positive port (Vp1) coupled to the positive terminal of the first power amplifier 101 to a second negative port (Vm2) coupled to the negative terminal of the second power amplifier 102. A center tap of the second metal trace is coupled to the pre-bias voltage VDD.

[0059] like Figure 5 As shown, the first metal trace and the second metal trace are symmetrical with respect to the middle line 403. The middle line 403 is disposed between the first metal trace and the second metal trace. The distance from the middle line 403 to the first metal trace is equal to the distance from the middle line 403 to the second metal trace.

[0060] The first secondary winding NS1, the second secondary winding NS2, the third secondary winding NS3 and the fourth secondary winding NS4 are formed on a second metal layer above the first metal layer. The second metal layer is colored black. The layout of the secondary windings and the transformer power combiner balancing device is shown in the dashed rectangular box 504. Figure 5 As shown, the first secondary winding NS1, the second secondary winding NS2, the third secondary winding NS3 and the fourth secondary winding NS4 form a third metal trace with an opening in an octagon. The two ends of the opening are the first output terminal Vo and the second output terminal GND. The third metal trace extends from the first output terminal Vo to the second output terminal GND.

[0061] The first conductive element 401 includes a first portion coupled to the first negative port ( Vm1 ), a second portion coupled to the second negative port ( Vm2 ), and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the first conductive element.

[0062] The second conductive element 402 includes a first portion coupled to the first positive port ( Vp1 ), a second portion coupled to the second positive port ( Vp2 ), and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the second conductive element 402 .

[0063] like Figure 5 As shown, the first portion of the first conductive element 401 is parallel to the first portion of the second conductive element 402. The second portion of the first conductive element 401 is parallel to the second portion of the second conductive element 402. The middle portion of the first conductive element 401 and the middle portion of the second conductive element 402 are formed in different metal layers and cross each other diagonally. As shown by the color of the two middle portions, the middle portion of the first conductive element 401 is formed on the second metal layer. The middle portion of the second conductive element 402 is formed on the first metal layer. The middle portion of the first conductive element 401 is coupled to the other two portions of the first conductive element 401 through appropriate interconnect structures (e.g., vias).

[0064] It should be noted that forming the middle portion of the first conductive element 401 on the second metal layer is merely an example and should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, substitutions, and modifications. For example, according to design requirements and different applications, the middle portion of the second conductive element 402 can be formed on the second metal layer, and the middle portion of the first conductive element 401 can also be formed on the first metal layer.

[0065] In some embodiments, the width of the first metal trace (NP1 and NP4) and the second metal trace (NP2 and NP3) is in the range of about 5 μm to about 6 μm. The width of the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402 is in the range of about 2 μm to about 3 μm. The spacing between the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402 is about 6.5 μm.

[0066] Figure 6 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The second implementation shown in the dashed rectangles 602 and 604 is the same as the second implementation shown in the dashed rectangles 602 and 604. Figure 5 The first implementation shown is similar except that the spacing between the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402 is reduced from about 6.5 μm to about 4 μm. The reduced spacing helps to slightly reduce the inductance of the conductive elements.

[0067] Figure 7 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The third implementation shown in the dashed rectangles 702 and 704 is the same as the third implementation shown in the dashed rectangles 702 and 704. Figure 5 The first implementation shown and Figure 6 Another implementation shown is similar, except that the transformer power combiner balancing device includes two more X-shaped crossovers.

[0068] like Figure 7 As shown, the first conductive element 401 includes a first portion coupled to the first negative port (Vm1), a second portion coupled to the second negative port (Vm2), and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the first conductive element 401. Figure 7 As shown, the alternating colors of the three portions indicate that the first conductive element 401 is formed on two different metal layers.

[0069] like Figure 7 As shown, the second conductive element 402 includes a first portion coupled to the first positive port (Vp1), a second portion coupled to the second positive port (Vp2), and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the second conductive element 402. Figure 7 As shown, the alternating colors of the three portions indicate that the second conductive element 402 is formed on two different metal layers.

[0070] like Figure 7As shown, a portion of the first portion of the first conductive element 401 crosses diagonally over a portion of the first portion of the second conductive element 402. A portion of the second portion of the first conductive element 401 crosses diagonally over a portion of the second portion of the second conductive element 402. A portion of the middle portion of the first conductive element 401 crosses diagonally over a portion of the middle portion of the second conductive element 402.

[0071] like Figure 7 As shown, between the upper X-shaped cross and the middle X-shaped cross, a portion of the first conductive element 401 is parallel to a portion of the second conductive element 402. Similarly, between the middle X-shaped cross and the lower X-shaped cross, a portion of the first conductive element 401 is parallel to a portion of the second conductive element 402.

[0072] Figure 8 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The fourth implementation shown in the dashed rectangles 802 and 804 is the same as the fourth implementation shown in the dashed rectangles 802 and 804. Figure 7 The third implementation shown in FIG. 4 is similar to the third implementation shown in FIG. 4 , except that the first conductive element 401 is formed on the second metal layer, and the second conductive element 402 is formed on the first metal layer.

[0073] It should be noted that Figure 8 The arrangement of the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402 shown is only an example and should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. Those skilled in the art will recognize many variations, substitutions, and modifications. For example, according to design requirements and different applications, the first conductive element 401 can be formed on the first metal layer and the second conductive element 402 can be formed on the second metal layer.

[0074] Fig. 9 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The fifth implementation shown in the dashed rectangles 902 and 904 is the same as the fifth implementation shown in the dashed rectangles 902 and 904. Figure 5 The first implementation shown in FIG. 1 is similar to FIG. 1 , except that the X-shaped crossover is located near Vp1 and Vm1 .

[0075] like Fig. 9As shown, the first conductive element 401 includes a first portion coupled to the first negative port (Vm1) and a second portion coupled to the second negative port (Vm2). The second conductive element 402 includes a first portion coupled to the first positive port (Vp1) and a second portion coupled to the second positive port (Vp2). A portion of the first portion of the first conductive element 401 crosses diagonally on a portion of the first portion of the second conductive element 402. The second portion of the first conductive element 401 is parallel to the second portion of the second conductive element 402.

[0076] Fig.10 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The sixth implementation shown in the dashed rectangles 1002 and 1004 is the same as the sixth implementation shown in the dashed rectangles 1002 and 1004. Figure 5 is similar to the first implementation shown in , except that the X-shaped crossover is close to Vp2 and Vm2.

[0077] like Fig.10 As shown, the first conductive element 401 includes a first portion coupled to the first negative port (Vm1) and a second portion coupled to the second negative port (Vm2). The second conductive element 402 includes a first portion coupled to the first positive port (Vp1) and a second portion coupled to the second positive port (Vp2). The first portion of the first conductive element 401 is parallel to the first portion of the second conductive element 402. A portion of the second portion of the first conductive element 401 crosses diagonally on a portion of the second portion of the second conductive element 402.

[0078] Fig.11 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The seventh implementation shown in the dashed rectangular boxes 1102 and 1104 is the same as the seventh implementation shown in the dashed rectangular boxes 1102 and 1104. Figure 5 The first implementation shown is similar except that the diagonal crossovers are replaced by right-angle conductors, e.g. Fig.11 shown.

[0079] Fig.12 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The layout of the eighth implementation of the transformer power combiner balancing device shown in . Fig.12 The eighth implementation shown is Figure 5 The first implementation shown is similar except that inductive and capacitive elements are included in the transformer power combiner balancing device.

[0080] like Fig.12As shown, the first conductive element 401 includes a first portion coupled to the first negative port (Vm1), a second portion coupled to the second negative port (Vm2), and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the first conductive element. The first portion of the first conductive element 401 includes a first inductive element L1. The second portion of the first conductive element 401 includes a first capacitive element C1. In some embodiments, the first inductive element L1 may be an inductor formed by a metal line on a semiconductor substrate. The first capacitive element C1 may be a capacitor such as a silicon-based capacitor having a metal-insulator-metal structure.

[0081] like Fig.12 As shown, the second conductive element 402 includes a first portion coupled to the first positive port (Vp1), a second portion coupled to the second positive port (Vp2), and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the second conductive element 402. The first portion of the second conductive element 402 includes a second capacitive element C2. The second portion of the second conductive element 402 includes a second inductive element L2. In some embodiments, the second inductive element L2 may be an inductor formed by a metal line on a semiconductor substrate. The second capacitive element C2 may be a capacitor such as a silicon-based capacitor having a metal-insulator-metal structure.

[0082] The first portion of the first conductive element 401 is parallel to the first portion of the second conductive element 402. The second portion of the first conductive element 401 is parallel to the second portion of the second conductive element 402. The middle portion of the first conductive element 401 and the middle portion of the second conductive element 402 are formed in different metal layers and cross each other diagonally.

[0083] In operation, the first inductor L1 and the first capacitor C1 are configured such that at the operating frequency, the first conductive element 401 has a first predetermined impedance. In some embodiments, the first predetermined impedance is equal to zero. The second inductor L2 and the second capacitor C2 are configured such that at the operating frequency, the second conductive element 402 has a second predetermined impedance. In some embodiments, the second predetermined impedance is equal to zero.

[0084] Fig.13 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The layout of the ninth implementation of the transformer power combiner balancing device shown in FIG. Fig.13 The ninth implementation shown in Fig.12 The eighth implementation is similar to that shown in FIG. 1 , except that the inductance of the conductive element is used instead of a dedicated inductor. In other words, the inductor element can be implemented as a straight conductor. In addition, one way to increase the inductance is to increase the spacing of the wires, using cross-connections to effectively form part of the winding. Fig.13As shown, the conductors of conductive elements 401 and 402 are spaced apart to effectively form a pair of 8-shaped differential inductors.

[0085] Fig.14 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Figure 4 The layout of the tenth implementation of the transformer power combiner balancing device shown in FIG. Fig.14 The tenth implementation shown is Fig.12 The eighth implementation shown is similar, except that C1 and C2 use adjustable capacitance elements. In operation, the power amplifiers 101 and 102 can operate at different frequencies. The adjustable capacitance elements can be dynamically adjusted so that the impedance of the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402 remain the same at different frequencies.

[0086] Fig.15 Shows Fig.14 Schematic diagram of an adjustable capacitor element combined with various embodiments of the present application is shown in FIG. The first capacitor element C1 and the second capacitor element C2 are adjustable capacitor elements with the same structure. For simplicity, Fig.14 Only a schematic diagram of the first capacitive element C1 is shown in FIG. The first capacitive element C1 includes a plurality of capacitor switch networks connected in parallel. The first capacitor switch network includes C11 and S1 connected in series. The second capacitor switch network includes C12 and S2 connected in series. The last capacitor switch network includes C1N and SN connected in series. In operation, by controlling the on and off of switches S1-SN, the capacitance of the first capacitive element C1 changes accordingly.

[0087] Fig.16 A schematic diagram of another transformer power combiner system according to various embodiments of the present application is shown. Fig.16 The transformer power combiner system shown is similar to Figure 4 The transformer power combiner 200 is similar to that shown, except that it is a power combiner having four power amplifiers and four conducting elements. In addition, the transformer power combiner 200 includes primary windings NP1-NP8 and secondary windings NS1-NS8.

[0008] like Fig.16 As shown, the negative output terminal Vm3 of the third power amplifier 103 is coupled to the first end of the fifth primary winding NP5. The second end of the fifth primary winding NP5 is coupled to the pre-bias voltage VDD. The positive output terminal Vp3 of the third power amplifier 103 is coupled to the first end of the sixth primary winding NP6. The second end of the sixth primary winding NP6 is coupled to the pre-bias voltage VDD.

[0089] The negative output terminal Vm4 of the fourth power amplifier 104 is coupled to the first end of the seventh primary winding NP7. The second end of the seventh primary winding NP7 is coupled to the pre-bias voltage VDD. The positive output terminal Vp4 of the fourth power amplifier 104 is coupled to the first end of the eighth primary winding NP8. The second end of the eighth primary winding NP8 is coupled to the pre-bias voltage VDD.

[0090] The third conductive element 403 is connected between the negative output terminal Vm3 of the third power amplifier 103 and the negative output terminal Vm4 of the fourth power amplifier 104. The fourth conductive element 404 is connected between the positive output terminal Vp3 of the third power amplifier 103 and the positive output terminal Vp4 of the fourth power amplifier 104.

[0091] Fig.17 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Fig.16 The layout of the transformer power combiner balancing device is shown. The second primary winding NP2 and the fifth primary winding NP5 are on the first metal plate 111. The sixth primary winding NP6 and the third primary winding NP3 are on the second metal plate 112. The fourth primary winding NP4 and the seventh primary winding NP7 are on the third metal plate 113. The eighth primary winding NP8 and the first primary winding NP1 are on the fourth metal plate 114. Fig.17 As shown, the first metal plate 111 , the second metal plate 112 , the third metal plate 113 , and the fourth metal plate 114 form a square geometric shape.

[0092] The first conductive element 401 is connected between Vm1 and Vm2. The second conductive element 402 is connected between Vp1 and Vp2. The third conductive element 403 is connected between Vm3 and Vm4. The fourth conductive element is connected between Vp3 and Vp4. Fig.17 As shown, the first conductive element 401 , the second conductive element 402 , the third conductive element 403 , and the fourth conductive element 404 are symmetrical with respect to the center of the square geometric shape.

[0093] Fig.18 A schematic diagram of yet another transformer power combiner system according to various embodiments of the present application is shown. Fig.18 The transformer power combiner system shown in Fig.16 is similar to that shown in Fig.18 Only two conducting elements are used in the transformer power combiner system. Fig.18 As shown, the first conductive element 401 is used to connect Vm1, Vm2, Vm3 and Vm4 together. The second conductive element 402 is used to connect Vp1, Vp2, Vp3 and Vp4 together.

[0094] Fig.19 The various embodiments according to the present application are shown Fig.18 The layout of the transformer power combiner balancing device is shown. The second primary winding NP2 and the fifth primary winding NP5 are on the first metal plate 111. The sixth primary winding NP6 and the third primary winding NP3 are on the second metal plate 112. The fourth primary winding NP4 and the seventh primary winding NP7 are on the third metal plate 113. The eighth primary winding NP8 and the first primary winding NP1 are on the fourth metal plate 114. Fig.19 As shown, the first metal plate 111 , the second metal plate 112 , the third metal plate 113 , and the fourth metal plate 114 form a square geometric shape.

[0095] The first conductive element 401 includes two parts. The first part is connected between Vm1 and Vm2. The second part is connected between Vm3 and Vm4. The second conductive element 402 includes two parts. The first part is connected between Vp1 and Vp2. The second part is connected between Vp3 and Vp4. Fig.19 As shown, the first conductive element 401 and the second conductive element 402 are symmetrical with respect to the center of the square geometric shape.

[0096] Fig. 20 The formation of various embodiments according to the present application is shown as follows Figure 4 Flowchart of the transformer power combiner system shown. Fig. 20 The flowchart shown is only an example and should not unduly limit the scope of the claims. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize many variations, substitutions, and modifications. For example, Fig. 20 The various steps shown in may be added, deleted, substituted, rearranged and repeated.

[0097] In step 2002, a primary winding of a distributed transformer is formed on a first metal layer. The first primary winding and the second primary winding of the distributed transformer are configured to be coupled to a negative output terminal and a positive output terminal of a first power amplifier, respectively. The third primary winding and the fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer are configured to be coupled to a negative output terminal and a positive output terminal of a second power amplifier, respectively.

[0098] In step 2004, a secondary winding of a distributed transformer is formed on a second metal layer.

[0099] In step 2006 , a first conductive element is configured to be connected between a negative output terminal of the first power amplifier and a negative output terminal of the second power amplifier.

[0100] In step 2008, a second conductive element is configured to be connected between a positive output terminal of the first power amplifier and a positive output terminal of the second power amplifier.

[0001] The method also includes forming a first metal trace, which includes a first primary winding and a fourth primary winding of a distributed transformer, wherein the first metal trace extends from a first negative port coupled to a negative output terminal of a first power amplifier to a second positive port coupled to a positive output terminal of a second power amplifier; forming a second metal trace, which includes a second primary winding and a third primary winding of a distributed transformer, wherein the second metal trace extends from the first positive port coupled to the positive output terminal of the first power amplifier to the second negative port coupled to the negative output terminal of the second power amplifier; and forming a third metal trace, which includes a first secondary winding, a second secondary winding, a third secondary winding, and a fourth secondary winding of the distributed transformer, wherein the third metal trace extends from the first output terminal to the second output terminal of the distributed transformer.

[0102] In some embodiments, the first conductive element includes a first portion coupled to the first negative port, a second portion coupled to the second negative port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the first conductive element, the second conductive element includes a first portion coupled to the first positive port, a second portion coupled to the second positive port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the second conductive element, and wherein the first portion of the first conductive element is parallel to the first portion of the second conductive element, the second portion of the first conductive element is parallel to the second portion of the second conductive element, and the intermediate portion of the first conductive element and the intermediate portion of the second conductive element are formed in different metal layers and diagonally cross each other.

[0103] The method also includes adding a first inductor element in a first portion of the first conductive element, adding a first capacitor element in a second portion of the first conductive element, adding a second capacitor element in a first portion of the second conductive element, adding a second inductor element in a second portion of the second conductive element, configuring the first inductor element and the first capacitor element so that the first conductive element has a first predetermined impedance at an operating frequency, and configuring the second inductor element and the second capacitor element so that the second conductive element has a second predetermined impedance at the operating frequency.

[0104] Although the embodiments of the present application and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the application as defined by the appended claims.

[0105] In addition, the scope of the present application is not limited to the specific embodiments of the processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of matter, means, methods, and steps described in the specification. It is easy for a person of ordinary skill in the art to understand from the present disclosure that existing or to-be-developed processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps can use substantially the same functions or achieve substantially the same results as the corresponding embodiments described herein, according to the contents of the present application. Therefore, the scope of the appended claims includes such processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

Claims

1. A transformer power combiner balancing device, characterized in that: include: a first power amplifier having a negative output terminal coupled to a first primary winding of a distributed transformer and a positive output terminal coupled to a second primary winding of the distributed transformer; a second power amplifier having a negative output terminal coupled to a third primary winding of the distributed transformer and a positive output terminal coupled to a fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer; a first conductive element connected between a negative output terminal of the first power amplifier and a negative output terminal of the second power amplifier; as well as The second conductive element is connected between the positive output terminal of the first power amplifier and the positive output terminal of the second power amplifier.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that Further including: a first secondary winding of the distributed transformer, the first secondary winding being magnetically coupled to the first primary winding of the distributed transformer; a second secondary winding of the distributed transformer, the second secondary winding being magnetically coupled to the second primary winding of the distributed transformer; a third secondary winding of the distributed transformer, the third secondary winding being magnetically coupled to the third primary winding of the distributed transformer; as well as A fourth secondary winding of the distributed transformer, the fourth secondary winding being magnetically coupled to the fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer, wherein the first secondary winding, the second secondary winding, the third secondary winding and the fourth secondary winding of the distributed transformer are connected in series between a first output terminal and a second output terminal.

3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first primary winding, the second primary winding, the third primary winding and the fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer are formed on a first metal layer; as well as The first secondary winding, the second secondary winding, the third secondary winding, and the fourth secondary winding of the distributed transformer are formed on a second metal layer.

4. The device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first primary winding and the fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer form a first metal trace extending from a first negative port coupled to the negative output terminal of the first power amplifier to a second positive port coupled to the positive output terminal of the second power amplifier; the second primary winding and the third primary winding of the distributed transformer forming a second metal trace, the second metal trace extending from a first positive port coupled to a positive output terminal of the first power amplifier to a second negative port coupled to the negative output terminal of the second power amplifier, and wherein the first metal trace and the second metal trace are symmetrical with respect to a midline between the first metal trace and the second metal trace; as well as The first secondary winding, the second secondary winding, the third secondary winding, and the fourth secondary winding of the distributed transformer form a third metal trace extending from the first output end to the second output end.

5. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first conductive element includes a first portion coupled to the first negative port, a second portion coupled to the second negative port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the first conductive element; as well as The second conductive element comprises a first portion coupled to the first positive port, a second portion coupled to the second positive port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the second conductive element, and wherein: The first portion of the first conductive element is parallel to the first portion of the second conductive element; The second portion of the first conductive element is parallel to the second portion of the second conductive element; and The middle portion of the first conductive element and the middle portion of the second conductive element are formed in different metal layers and diagonally cross each other.

6. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first conductive element includes a first portion coupled to the first negative port, a second portion coupled to the second negative port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the first conductive element, and wherein the three portions of the first conductive element are formed on two different metal layers; as well as The second conductive element comprises a first portion coupled to the first positive port, a second portion coupled to the second positive port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the second conductive element, and wherein the three portions of the second conductive element are formed on the two different metal layers, and wherein: A portion of the first portion of the first conductive element diagonally crosses a portion of the first portion of the second conductive element; A portion of the second portion of the first conductive element diagonally crosses a portion of the second portion of the second conductive element; and A portion of the middle portion of the first conductive element diagonally crosses a portion of the middle portion of the second conductive element.

7. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first conductive element includes a first portion coupled to the first negative port, a second portion coupled to the second negative port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the first conductive element, and wherein the three portions of the first conductive element are formed on the second metal layer; as well as The second conductive element includes a first portion coupled to the first positive port, a second portion coupled to the second positive port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the second conductive element, and wherein the three portions of the second conductive element are formed on the first metal layer, and wherein: A portion of the first portion of the first conductive element diagonally crosses a portion of the first portion of the second conductive element; A portion of the second portion of the first conductive element diagonally crosses a portion of the second portion of the second conductive element; and A portion of the middle portion of the first conductive element diagonally crosses a portion of the middle portion of the second conductive element.

8. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that: the first conductive element comprising a first portion coupled to the first negative port and a second portion coupled to the second negative port; as well as The second conductive element comprises a first portion coupled to the first positive port and a second portion coupled to the second positive port, and wherein: A portion of the first portion of the first conductive element diagonally crosses a portion of the first portion of the second conductive element; and The second portion of the first conductive element is parallel to the second portion of the second conductive element.

9. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that: the first conductive element comprising a first portion coupled to the first negative port and a second portion coupled to the second negative port; as well as The second conductive element comprises a first portion coupled to the first positive port and a second portion coupled to the second positive port, and wherein: The first portion of the first conductive element is parallel to the first portion of the second conductive element; as well as A portion of the second portion of the first conductive element diagonally crosses a portion of the second portion of the second conductive element.

10. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first conductive element includes a first portion coupled to the first negative port, a second portion coupled to the second negative port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the first conductive element, wherein the first portion of the first conductive element includes a first inductive element and the second portion of the first conductive element includes a first capacitive element; as well as The second conductive element comprises a first portion coupled to the first positive port, a second portion coupled to the second positive port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the second conductive element, wherein the first portion of the second conductive element comprises a second capacitive element, the second portion of the second conductive element comprises a second inductive element, and wherein: The first portion of the first conductive element is parallel to the first portion of the second conductive element; The second portion of the first conductive element is parallel to the second portion of the second conductive element; The middle portion of the first conductive element and the middle portion of the second conductive element are formed in different metal layers and cross each other diagonally; The first inductive element and the first capacitive element are configured so that at an operating frequency, the first conductive element has a first predetermined impedance; and The second inductive element and the second capacitive element are configured so that the second conductive element has a second predetermined impedance at an operating frequency.

11. The device according to claim 10, characterized in that: The first capacitive element comprises a plurality of first capacitor switch networks connected in parallel; and The second capacitive element includes a plurality of second capacitor switch networks connected in parallel.

12. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that Further including: a third power amplifier having a negative output terminal coupled to a fifth primary winding of the distributed transformer and a positive output terminal coupled to a sixth primary winding of the distributed transformer; a fourth power amplifier having a negative output terminal coupled to the seventh primary winding of the distributed transformer and a positive output terminal coupled to the eighth primary winding of the distributed transformer; a third conductive element connected between the negative output terminal of the third power amplifier and the negative output terminal of the fourth power amplifier; as well as a fourth conductive element connected between the positive output terminal of the third power amplifier and the positive output terminal of the fourth power amplifier, wherein: The second primary winding and the fifth primary winding are on a first metal plate; The sixth primary winding and the third primary winding are on a second metal plate; The fourth primary winding and the seventh primary winding are on a third metal plate; the eighth primary winding and the first primary winding are on a fourth metal plate, wherein the first metal plate, the second metal plate, the third metal plate, and the fourth metal plate form a square geometric shape; and The first conductive element, the second conductive element, the third conductive element, and the fourth conductive element are symmetrical with respect to a center of the square geometric shape.

13. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that Further including: a third power amplifier having a negative output terminal coupled to a fifth primary winding of the distributed transformer and a positive output terminal coupled to a sixth primary winding of the distributed transformer; a fourth power amplifier having a negative output terminal coupled to a seventh primary winding of the distributed transformer and a positive output terminal coupled to an eighth primary winding of the distributed transformer, wherein: The first conductive element is coupled to a negative output terminal of the third power amplifier and a negative output terminal of the fourth power amplifier; The second conductive element is coupled to a positive output terminal of the third power amplifier and a positive output terminal of the fourth power amplifier; The second primary winding and the fifth primary winding are on a first metal plate; The sixth primary winding and the third primary winding are on a second metal plate; The fourth primary winding and the seventh primary winding are on a third metal plate; the eighth primary winding and the first primary winding are on a fourth metal plate, wherein the first metal plate, the second metal plate, the third metal plate, and the fourth metal plate form a square geometric shape; and The first conductive element and the second conductive element are symmetrical with respect to a center of the square geometric shape.

14. A transformer power combiner balance control method, characterized in that: include: forming a primary winding of a distributed transformer on the first metal layer, wherein the first primary winding and the second primary winding of the distributed transformer are configured to be coupled to the negative output terminal and the positive output terminal of the first power amplifier, respectively, and the third primary winding and the fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer are configured to be coupled to the negative output terminal and the positive output terminal of the second power amplifier, respectively; forming a secondary winding of the distributed transformer on the second metal layer; configuring a first conductive element to be connected between a negative output terminal of the first power amplifier and a negative output terminal of the second power amplifier; and The second conductive element is configured to be connected between the positive output terminal of the first power amplifier and the positive output terminal of the second power amplifier.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that Further including: forming a first metal trace including the first primary winding and the fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer, wherein the first metal trace extends from a first negative port coupled to a negative output terminal of the first power amplifier to a second positive port coupled to a positive output terminal of the second power amplifier; forming a second metal trace including the second primary winding and the third primary winding of the distributed transformer, wherein the second metal trace extends from a first positive port coupled to a positive output terminal of the first power amplifier to a second negative port coupled to a negative output terminal of the second power amplifier; as well as A third metal trace is formed, the third metal trace including the first secondary winding, the second secondary winding, the third secondary winding, and the fourth secondary winding of the distributed transformer, wherein the third metal trace extends from the first output terminal to the second output terminal of the distributed transformer.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that: The first conductive element includes a first portion coupled to the first negative port, a second portion coupled to the second negative port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the first conductive element; as well as The second conductive element includes a first portion coupled to the first positive port, a second portion coupled to the second positive port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the second conductive element, wherein: The first portion of the first conductive element is parallel to the first portion of the second conductive element; The second portion of the first conductive element is parallel to the second portion of the second conductive element; and The middle portion of the first conductive element and the middle portion of the second conductive element are formed in different metal layers and diagonally cross each other.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that Further including: adding a first inductive element in a first portion of the first conductive element; adding a first capacitive element in the second portion of the first conductive element; adding a second capacitive element in the first portion of the second conductive element; adding a second inductive element in a second portion of the second conductive element; configuring the first inductive element and the first capacitive element so that at an operating frequency, the first conductive element has a first predetermined impedance; as well as The second inductive element and the second capacitive element are configured such that the second conductive element has a second predetermined impedance at an operating frequency.

18. A system, characterized in that: include: a first power amplifier having a negative output terminal coupled to a first primary winding of a distributed transformer and a positive output terminal coupled to a second primary winding of the distributed transformer; a second power amplifier having a negative output terminal coupled to a third primary winding of the distributed transformer and a positive output terminal coupled to a fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer; a first conductive element connected between a negative output terminal of the first power amplifier and a negative output terminal of the second power amplifier; a second conductive element connected between the positive output terminal of the first power amplifier and the positive output terminal of the second power amplifier; a first secondary winding of the distributed transformer, the first secondary winding being magnetically coupled to the first primary winding of the distributed transformer; a second secondary winding of the distributed transformer, the second secondary winding being magnetically coupled to the second primary winding of the distributed transformer; a third secondary winding of the distributed transformer, the third secondary winding being magnetically coupled to the third primary winding of the distributed transformer; as well as A fourth secondary winding of the distributed transformer, the fourth secondary winding being magnetically coupled to the fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer, wherein the first secondary winding, the second secondary winding, the third secondary winding and the fourth secondary winding of the distributed transformer are connected in series between a first output terminal and a second output terminal.

19. The system according to claim 18, characterized in that: The first primary winding, the second primary winding, the third primary winding and the fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer are formed on a first metal layer, wherein: The first primary winding and the fourth primary winding of the distributed transformer form a first metal trace extending from a first negative port coupled to a negative output terminal of the first power amplifier to a second positive port coupled to a positive output terminal of the second power amplifier; and the second primary winding and the third primary winding of the distributed transformer forming a second metal trace extending from a first positive port coupled to a positive output terminal of the first power amplifier to a second negative port coupled to a negative output terminal of the second power amplifier, wherein the first metal trace and the second metal trace are symmetrical with respect to a midline between the first metal trace and the second metal trace; and The first secondary winding, the second secondary winding, the third secondary winding and the fourth secondary winding of the distributed transformer are formed on a second metal layer, and the third secondary winding and the fourth secondary winding of the distributed transformer form a third metal trace, and the third metal trace extends from the first output end to the second output end.

20. The system according to claim 19, characterized in that: The first conductive element includes a first portion coupled to the first negative port, a second portion coupled to the second negative port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the first conductive element; as well as The second conductive element includes a first portion coupled to the first positive port, a second portion coupled to the second positive port, and an intermediate portion connected between the first portion and the second portion of the second conductive element, wherein: The first portion of the first conductive element is parallel to the first portion of the second conductive element; The second portion of the first conductive element is parallel to the second portion of the second conductive element; and The middle portion of the first conductive element and the middle portion of the second conductive element are formed in different metal layers and diagonally cross each other.

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