Tracker circuit and tracking method

Abstract

A tracker circuit (1A) is provided with an output switching circuit (30) configured so as to selectively output at least one of a plurality of discrete voltages to power amplifiers (2A, 2B) configured so as to amplify a high-frequency signal (RFA) in a frequency band (A) and a high-frequency signal (RFB) in a frequency band (B), and is also provided with: a voltage supply path (P41) for supplying a voltage to the power amplifiers (2A, 2B); the output switch circuit (30) and the power amplifier (2A) are connected; a voltage supply path (P42) that connects the output switching circuit (30) and the power amplifier (2B); and a filter circuit (40A) that can be connected to the voltage supply paths (P41, P42) in a shunt manner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a tracker circuit and a tracking method. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the power added efficiency (PAE) has been improved by applying the envelope tracking (ET) mode to the power amplifier. Patent document 1 discloses a technology related to the digital ET mode for supplying multiple discrete voltages. In addition, Patent document 2 discloses a technology related to the symbol power tracking (SPT) mode for supplying multiple discrete voltages.

[0003] Patent Document 1: U.S. Patent No. 8829993

[0004] Patent Document 2: U.S. Patent No. 10686407

[0005] However, in the above-mentioned conventional technology, distortion of high-frequency signals may increase in the power amplifier. Summary of the invention

[0006] Therefore, the present invention provides a tracker circuit and a tracking method capable of suppressing distortion of a high-frequency signal amplified using a plurality of discrete voltages.

[0007] A tracker circuit of one embodiment of the present invention comprises an output switch circuit configured to selectively output at least one of a plurality of discrete voltages to a first power amplifier and a second power amplifier, wherein the first power amplifier is configured to amplify a first high-frequency signal of a first frequency band, and the second power amplifier is configured to amplify a second high-frequency signal of a second frequency band. The tracker circuit also comprises: a first voltage supply path connected between the output switch circuit and the first power amplifier; a second voltage supply path connected between the output switch circuit and the second power amplifier; and a first filter circuit capable of being shunt-connected to the first voltage supply path and the second voltage supply path.

[0008] A tracker circuit of one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first external connection terminal connected to a first power amplifier; a second external connection terminal connected to a second power amplifier; an output switching circuit configured to selectively output at least one of a plurality of discrete voltages to the first external connection terminal and the second external connection terminal; a first voltage supply path connected between the output switching circuit and the first external connection terminal; a second voltage supply path connected between the output switching circuit and the second external connection terminal; and a first filter circuit connected between the first voltage supply path and a ground line, and connected between the second voltage supply path and the ground line.

[0009] A tracking method of one embodiment of the present invention comprises the following steps: (i) when a first high-frequency signal of a first frequency band is amplified by a first power amplifier, if the channel bandwidth of the first high-frequency signal is greater than a threshold width, the filter circuit is not connected to the first voltage supply path; if the channel bandwidth of the first high-frequency signal is less than the threshold width, the filter circuit is connected to the first voltage supply path; (ii) at least one of a plurality of discrete voltages is selectively supplied to the first power amplifier via the first voltage supply path; and when a second high-frequency signal of a second frequency band is amplified by a second power amplifier, (i) the filter circuit is connected to the second voltage supply path; and (ii) at least one of a plurality of discrete voltages is selectively supplied to the second power amplifier via the second voltage supply path.

[0010] According to the tracker circuit and the like of one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to suppress distortion of a high-frequency signal amplified using a plurality of discrete voltages. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1A This is a graph showing an example of transition of the power supply voltage in the average power tracking (APT: Average Power Tracking) mode.

[0012] Figure 1B This is a graph showing an example of the transition of the power supply voltage in the simulated ET mode.

[0013] Figure 1C This is a graph showing an example of transition of the power supply voltage in the digital ET mode.

[0014] Figure 2 It is a circuit configuration diagram of a communication device according to Embodiment 1 and its modified example.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a circuit configuration diagram of a pre-regulator circuit, a switched capacitor circuit, an output switch circuit, and a filter circuit according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a circuit configuration diagram of a digital control circuit according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a flowchart showing the tracking method of implementation mode 1.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a top view of the tracker module according to Embodiment 1.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a top view of the tracker module according to Embodiment 1.

[0020] Figure 8This is a cross-sectional view of the tracker module according to Embodiment 1.

[0021] Fig. 9 This is a partial circuit configuration diagram of a tracker circuit according to Variation 1 of Implementation Example 1.

[0022] Fig.10 This is a partial circuit configuration diagram of a tracker circuit according to a second variation of the first embodiment.

[0023] Fig.11 This is a circuit configuration diagram of a communication device according to the second embodiment.

[0024] Fig.12 This is a partial circuit structure diagram of a tracker circuit in embodiment 2.

[0025] Fig.13 It is a partial circuit structure diagram of a tracker circuit according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] (The process leading to the present invention)

[0027] When a plurality of discrete voltages are supplied to a power amplifier, noise increases due to discrete changes in voltage levels. In particular, when a digital ET mode in which discrete changes in voltage levels are rapid is used, the increase in noise becomes significant.

[0028] In particular, the inventors have discovered that when the power supply voltage has large noise, spurious emissions increase due to intermodulation distortion (IMD) (for example, distortion components generated by adding the frequency of noise to the frequency of a high-frequency signal), and the adjacent channel leakage power ratio (ACPR / ACLR: Adjacent Channel Power Ratio / Adjacent Channel Leakage Ratio) deteriorates.

[0029] If a filter circuit for attenuating such spurious emission is inserted into the voltage supply path, the size of the tracker circuit will increase. This problem becomes significant in particular when the tracker circuit supplies voltage to a plurality of power amplifiers.

[0030] Therefore, the tracker circuit and tracking method that can suppress the distortion of high-frequency signals amplified using multiple discrete voltages and suppress the large-scale tracker circuit are described in detail below based on the embodiments. It should be noted that the embodiments described below are all general or specific examples. The values, shapes, materials, components, configurations of components, and connection methods shown in the following embodiments are examples and do not limit the present invention.

[0031] In addition, each figure is a schematic diagram that appropriately emphasizes, omits, or adjusts the ratio in order to illustrate the present invention, and is not necessarily strictly illustrated, and may differ from the actual shape, positional relationship, and ratio. In each figure, the same reference numeral is sometimes added to substantially the same structure, and repeated descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0032] In the following figures, the x-axis and the y-axis are axes that are orthogonal to each other on a plane parallel to the main surface of the module substrate. Specifically, when the module substrate has a rectangular shape in a plan view, the x-axis is parallel to the first side of the module substrate, and the y-axis is parallel to the second side of the module substrate that is orthogonal to the first side. In addition, the z-axis is an axis perpendicular to the main surface of the module substrate, and its positive direction indicates the upward direction, and its negative direction indicates the downward direction.

[0033] In the circuit structure of the present invention, "connection" includes not only direct connection through connecting terminals and / or wiring conductors, but also electrical connection through other circuit elements. "Direct connection" means direct connection through connecting terminals and / or wiring conductors without going through other circuit elements. "Connected between A and B" means connected between A and B and both A and B, and means a path connected in series between A and B. "Path between A and B" means a path formed by conductors that electrically connect A and B. "Connected in series to the path" means connected in series on the path, and means connected between one end of the path and the other end of the path. "Shunted connection to the path" means connected between the path and the ground wire.

[0034] In the component configuration of the present invention, "components are configured on a substrate" includes components configured on the main surface of a substrate, and components configured inside a substrate. "Components are configured on the main surface of a substrate" includes not only the case where components are configured to contact the main surface of a substrate, but also the case where components are not in contact with the main surface but are configured above the main surface (for example, components are stacked on other components configured to contact the main surface). In addition, "components are configured on the main surface of a substrate" may also include components configured in recesses formed on the main surface. "Components are configured inside a substrate" includes not only the case where components are encapsulated in a module substrate, but also the case where all components are configured between the two main surfaces of a substrate but part of the components are not covered by the substrate, and the case where only part of the components are configured inside a substrate.

[0035] In addition, in the component configuration of the present invention, "a top view of the module substrate" means observing an object by orthogonally projecting it onto the xy plane from the positive side of the z-axis. "A overlaps with B when viewed from above" means that at least a portion of the area of ​​A orthogonally projected onto the xy plane overlaps with at least a portion of the area of ​​B orthogonally projected onto the xy plane. In addition, "A is configured between B and C" means that at least one of the multiple line segments connecting an arbitrary point in B and an arbitrary point in C passes through A.

[0036] In addition, in the component configuration of the present invention, "A and B are adjacently configured" means that A and B are close to each other, and specifically means that there are no other circuit components in the space opposite to A and B. In other words, "A and B are adjacently configured" means that any of the multiple line segments from any point on the surface of A opposite to B along the normal direction of the surface to B does not pass through circuit components other than A and B. Here, circuit components refer to components including active components and / or passive components. In other words, circuit components include active components including transistors or diodes, and passive components including inductors, converters, capacitors or resistors, but do not include electrical mechanical components including terminals, connectors or wiring.

[0037] In the present invention, a "terminal" refers to a point where a conductor in an element ends. In addition, when the resistance of the conductor between elements is sufficiently low, the terminal can be interpreted not only as a single point but also as an arbitrary point on the conductor between elements or the entire conductor.

[0038] In addition, phrases such as "parallel" and "perpendicular" that indicate the relationship between elements, phrases such as "rectangular" that indicate the shape of an element, and numerical ranges do not necessarily have strict meanings but also include substantially equivalent ranges, such as errors of several %.

[0039] First, as a technique for efficiently amplifying high-frequency signals, a tracking mode for supplying a power amplifier with a power supply voltage dynamically adjusted over time based on the high-frequency signal will be described. The tracking mode refers to a mode for dynamically adjusting the power supply voltage applied to the power amplifier circuit. There are several types of tracking modes, but here, reference is made to the following. Figure 1A to Figure 1C The APT mode and ET mode (including the analog ET mode and the digital ET mode) are described. Figure 1A to Figure 1C In FIG. 1 , the horizontal axis represents time and the vertical axis represents voltage. In addition, the thick solid line represents the power supply voltage and the thin solid line (waveform) represents the modulation signal.

[0040] Figure 1A : is a graph showing an example of the transition of the power supply voltage in the APT mode. In the APT mode, the power supply voltage is changed to a plurality of discrete voltage levels in units of one frame based on the average power.

[0041] A frame is a unit that constitutes a high-frequency signal (modulated signal). For example, in 5GNR (5th Generation New Radio) and LTE (Long Term Evolution), a frame contains ten subframes, each of which contains multiple time slots, and each time slot consists of multiple symbols. The subframe length is 1ms and the frame length is 10ms.

[0042] In addition, a mode in which the voltage level is varied in units of one frame or larger than one frame based on average power is called an APT mode, and is distinguished from a mode in which the voltage level is varied in units smaller than one frame (e.g., a subframe, a time slot, or a symbol). For example, a mode in which the voltage level is varied in units of a symbol is called a symbol power tracking (SPT: Symbol Power Tracking) mode, and is distinguished from the APT mode.

[0043] Figure 1B : is a graph showing an example of the change of the power supply voltage in the analog ET mode. In the analog ET mode, the envelope of the modulation signal is tracked by continuously changing the power supply voltage based on the envelope signal.

[0044] The envelope signal is a signal representing the envelope of the modulation signal. The envelope value is, for example, represented by (I 2 +Q 2 ). Here, (I, Q) represents a constellation point. A constellation point refers to a point on a constellation diagram that represents a signal modulated by digital modulation. For example, (I, Q) is determined based on transmission information, such as by a BBIC (Baseband Integrated Circuit).

[0045] Figure 1C : is a graph showing an example of the transition of the power supply voltage in the digital ET mode. In the digital ET mode, the power supply voltage is varied to a plurality of discrete voltage levels within one frame based on the envelope signal to track the envelope of the modulation signal.

[0046] (Implementation Method 1)

[0047] The following describes the first embodiment. The communication device 7A of this embodiment is equivalent to a user terminal (UE: User Equipment) in a cellular network, typically a mobile phone, a smart phone, a tablet computer, a wearable device, etc. In addition, the communication device 7A may also be an IoT (Internet of Things) sensor device, a medical / health care device, a car, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV: Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) (so-called drone), an automatic guided vehicle (AGV: Automated Guided Vehicle). In addition, the communication device 7A may also function as a BS (Base Station: Base Station) in a cellular network.

[0048] Reference Figure 2 The circuit configurations of a communication device 7A and a tracker circuit 1A according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 2It is a circuit configuration diagram of a communication device 7A according to the present embodiment and its modified example.

[0049] also, Figure 2 The circuit configurations are illustrative, and the communication device 7A and the tracker circuit 1A can be implemented using any of a variety of circuit implementations and circuit technologies. Therefore, the description of the communication device 7A and the tracker circuit 1A provided below should not be interpreted in a limiting sense.

[0050] [1.1 Circuit Configuration of Communication Device 7A]

[0051] First, refer to Figure 2 A communication device 7A according to the present embodiment will be described. The communication device 7A includes a tracker circuit 1A, power amplifiers 2A and 2B, filters 3A to 3C, switches 4A to 4C, an RFIC (Radio Frequency Integrated Circuit) 5, and antennas 6A and 6B.

[0052] The tracker circuit 1A can supply a plurality of discrete voltages V to the power amplifier 2A based on the tracking mode. T1 , can supply multiple discrete voltages V to the power amplifier 2B T2 As the tracking mode, a digital ET mode or an SPT mode can be used, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown, the tracker circuit 1A includes a pre-regulator circuit 10, a switched capacitor circuit 20, an output switch circuit 30, a filter circuit 40A, a DC power supply 50, a digital control circuit 60, external connection terminals 141 and 142, and a switch S55 (see Figure 3 ).

[0054] The external connection terminal 141 is an example of a first external connection terminal, and is connected to the power amplifier 2A outside the tracker circuit 1A, and is connected to the output switch circuit 30 via the voltage supply path P41 inside the tracker circuit 1A.

[0055] The external connection terminal 142 is an example of a second external connection terminal, and is connected to the power amplifier 2B outside the tracker circuit 1A, and is connected to the output switch circuit 30 via the voltage supply path P42 inside the tracker circuit 1A.

[0056] The voltage supply path P41 is an example of a first voltage supply path, and is a part of a path connecting the output switch circuit 30 and the power amplifier 2A. Here, the voltage supply path P41 is a path directly connecting the output switch circuit 30 and the external connection terminal 141. In other words, in the present embodiment, no circuit element (active element and passive element) is connected in series in the voltage supply path P41. In addition, the output switch circuit 30 and the external connection terminal 141 may not be directly connected. In other words, a circuit element may also be connected in series in the voltage supply path P41.

[0057] The voltage supply path P42 is an example of a second voltage supply path, and is a part of the path connecting the output switch circuit 30 and the power amplifier 2B. Here, the voltage supply path P42 is a path connecting the output switch circuit 30 and the external connection terminal 142, and partially overlaps with the voltage supply path P41. In addition, the voltage supply path P42 may not overlap with the voltage supply path P41 at all.

[0058] The pre-regulator circuit 10 includes a power inductor and a switch. The power inductor is an inductor used for stepping up and / or stepping down a DC (Direct Current) voltage. The power inductor is connected in series to a DC path. In addition, the power inductor can also be connected (configured in parallel) between the DC path and the ground. The pre-regulator circuit 10 can use the power inductor to convert the input voltage into a first voltage. Such a pre-regulator circuit 10 is also called a magnetic regulator or a DC / DC converter.

[0059] The switched capacitor circuit 20 includes a plurality of capacitors and a plurality of switches, and can generate a plurality of second voltages each having a plurality of discrete voltage levels as a plurality of discrete voltages based on the first voltage from the pre-regulator circuit 10. The switched capacitor circuit 20 is also called a switched-capacitor voltage ladder circuit.

[0060] The output switch circuit 30 is configured to modulate the power supply voltage by selecting at least one voltage from a plurality of second voltages generated in the switch capacitor circuit 20 and outputting it to the power amplifier 2A. At this time, the voltage is supplied to the power amplifier 2A via the voltage supply path P41. The output switch circuit 30 is controlled based on the digital control signal. In addition, there is also a case where the output switch circuit 30 is called a power supply modulator circuit.

[0061] The filter circuit 40A is an example of a first filter circuit and is a pulse shaping network. The filter circuit 40A is configured to be shunt-connectable to the voltage supply paths P41 and P42. The filter circuit 40A can attenuate noise components of signals (multiple discrete voltages) transmitted through the voltage supply paths P41 and P42.

[0062] The DC power source 50 can supply a DC voltage to the pre-regulator circuit 10. As the DC power source 50, for example, a rechargeable battery can be used, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0063] The digital control circuit 60 can control the pre-regulator circuit 10 , the switched capacitor circuit 20 , the output switch circuit 30 , and the filter circuit 40A based on the digital control signal from the RFIC 5 .

[0064] In addition, the tracker circuit 1A may not include at least one of the pre-regulator circuit 10, the switched capacitor circuit 20, the output switch circuit 30, the filter circuit 40A, the DC power supply 50, and the digital control circuit 60. For example, the tracker circuit 1A may not include the DC power supply 50. In addition, any combination of the pre-regulator circuit 10, the switched capacitor circuit 20, the output switch circuit 30, and the filter circuit 40A may be integrated into a single circuit. In addition, the tracker circuit 1A may include a plurality of voltage supply circuits instead of the pre-regulator circuit 10 and the switched capacitor circuit 20 as in Patent Document 2. In this case, the output switch circuit 30 may also be configured to select at least one of the plurality of voltage supply circuits.

[0065] The power amplifier 2A is an example of a first power amplifier, and is connected between the RFIC 5 and the filter 3A. The power amplifier 2A is connected to the tracker circuit 1A. The power amplifier 2A can use a plurality of discrete voltages V received from the tracker circuit 1A. T1 , amplifies the high frequency signal RF of band A received from RFIC5 A (An example of the first high frequency signal).

[0066] The power amplifier 2B is an example of a second power amplifier, and is connected between the RFIC 5 and the filters 3B and 3C. The power amplifier 2B is connected to the tracker circuit 1A. The power amplifier 2B can use a plurality of discrete voltages V received from the tracker circuit 1A. T2 , amplifies the high frequency signal RF of band B received from RFIC5 B (An example of the second high-frequency signal) and the high-frequency signal RF of the frequency band C C (An example of the second high frequency signal).

[0067] The filter 3A is connected between the power amplifier 2A and the antenna 6A. The filter 3A is a bandpass filter having a passband including the frequency band A.

[0068] The filter 3B is connected between the power amplifier 2B and the antenna 6B. The filter 3B is a bandpass filter having a passband including the frequency band B.

[0069] The filter 3C is connected between the power amplifier 2B and the antenna 6B. The filter 3C is a bandpass filter having a passband including the transmission band of the frequency band C.

[0070] Frequency bands A to C are frequency bands used for communication systems built using radio access technology (RAT), and are predefined by standardization organizations such as 3GPP (registered trademark) (3rd Generation Partnership Project) and IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers). Examples of communication systems include 5GNR (5th Generation New Radio) systems, LTE (Long Term Evolution) systems, and WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) systems.

[0071] Band A is an example of a first band, and in the present embodiment, is a band to which time division duplex (TDD) is applied (i.e., a TDD band). In addition, band A may also be a band to which frequency division duplex (FDD) is applied (i.e., an FDD band). In this case, the communication device 7A may not include the switch 4A. Bands B and C are both examples of a second band. Band B is a TDD band, and band C is an FDD band.

[0072] In this embodiment, frequency band A is included in the ultra-high frequency group (3300-5000 MHz), and frequency bands B and C are included in the medium-high frequency group (1427-2690 MHz). In addition, frequency bands A-C are not limited to frequency bands included in the ultra-high frequency group or the medium-high frequency group. For example, frequency bands A-C may also be included in the same frequency band group.

[0073] Switch 4A includes a terminal connected to filter 3A, a terminal connected to the output of power amplifier 2A, and a terminal connected to the input of a low noise amplifier (not shown). Switch 4A can switch the connection of filter 3A between power amplifier 2A and the low noise amplifier.

[0074] The switch 4B includes a terminal connected to the output end of the power amplifier 2B, a terminal connected to one end of the filter 3B, and a terminal connected to one end of the filter 3C, and includes a terminal connected to the input end of a low noise amplifier (not shown) as required. The switch 4B can switch the connection of the power amplifier 2B between the filters 3B and 3C. In addition, the switch 4B can also switch the connection of the filter 3B between the power amplifier 2B and the low noise amplifier.

[0075] The switch 4C includes a terminal connected to the antenna 6B, a terminal connected to the other end of the filter 3B, and a terminal connected to the other end of the filter 3C. The switch 4C can switch the connection of the antenna 6B between the filters 3B and 3C.

[0076] RFIC5 is an example of a signal processing circuit that processes a high-frequency signal. Specifically, RFIC5 performs signal processing on an input transmission signal by up-conversion, etc., and supplies the high-frequency transmission signal generated by the signal processing to power amplifiers 2A and 2B. In addition, RFIC5 has a control unit that controls the tracker circuit 1A. In addition, part or all of the functions of the control unit of RFIC5 can also be installed outside RFIC5.

[0077] The antenna 6A outputs a transmission signal of the frequency band A input from the power amplifier 2A via the filter 3A. The antenna 6A may not be included in the communication device 7A.

[0078] The antenna 6B outputs transmission signals of the frequency bands B and C input from the power amplifier 2B via the filters 3B and 3C. The antenna 6B may not be included in the communication device 7A.

[0079] also, Figure 2 The circuit configuration of the communication device 7A shown is an example and is not limited thereto. For example, the communication device 7A may also include a circuit that uses a higher frequency signal RF A The communication device 7A may include a baseband signal processing circuit for performing signal processing in a low intermediate frequency band. In addition, the communication device 7A may also include a filter having a passband including a reception frequency band of frequency band C. At this time, the filter can be installed as a duplexer together with the filter 3C. In addition, one of the filters 3B and 3C may not be included in the communication device 7A. In this case, the switch 4B and / or 4C may not be included in the communication device 7A.

[0080] [1.2 Circuit structure of tracker circuit 1A]

[0081] Next, refer to Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 The circuit configuration of the pre-regulator circuit 10 , the switched capacitor circuit 20 , the output switch circuit 30 , the filter circuit 40A, and the digital control circuit 60 included in the tracker circuit 1A will be described. Figure 3 1 is a circuit configuration diagram of the pre-regulator circuit 10 , the switched capacitor circuit 20 , the output switch circuit 30 , and the filter circuit 40A according to the present embodiment. Figure 4 2 is a circuit configuration diagram of the digital control circuit 60 according to the present embodiment.

[0082] also, Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 The circuit configuration is an example, and the pre-regulator circuit 10, the switched capacitor circuit 20, the output switch circuit 30, the filter circuit 40A, and the digital control circuit 60 can be implemented using any of a variety of circuit implementations and circuit technologies. Therefore, the description of each circuit provided below should not be interpreted in a limiting sense.

[0083] [1.2.1 Circuit Structure of Switched Capacitor Circuit 20]

[0084] First, the circuit structure of the switched capacitor circuit 20 is described. Figure 3 As shown, the switched capacitor circuit 20 includes capacitors C11 to C16, capacitors C10, C20, C30 and C40, switches S11 to S14, S21 to S24, S31 to S34, and S41 to S44. Energy and charge are input from the pre-regulator circuit 10 to the switched capacitor circuit 20 at nodes N1 to N4, and are led out from the switched capacitor circuit 20 to the output switch circuit 30 at nodes N1 to N4.

[0085] The capacitors C11 to C16 function as flying capacitors (also called cross-circuit capacitors). In other words, each capacitor C11 to C16 is used to step up or step down the first voltage supplied from the pre-regulator circuit 10. More specifically, the capacitors C11 to C16 move charges between the capacitors C11 to C16 and the nodes N1 to N4 to maintain voltages V1 to V4 (voltages relative to the ground potential) that satisfy V1: V2: V3: V4 = 1: 2: 3: 4 at the four nodes N1 to N4. The voltages V1 to V4 correspond to a plurality of second voltages each having a plurality of discrete voltage levels.

[0086] The capacitor C11 has two electrodes. One of the two electrodes of the capacitor C11 is connected to one end of the switch S11 and one end of the switch S12. The other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C11 is connected to one end of the switch S21 and one end of the switch S22.

[0087] The capacitor C12 has two electrodes. One of the two electrodes of the capacitor C12 is connected to one end of the switch S21 and one end of the switch S22. The other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C12 is connected to one end of the switch S31 and one end of the switch S32.

[0088] The capacitor C13 has two electrodes. One of the two electrodes of the capacitor C13 is connected to one end of the switch S31 and one end of the switch S32. The other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C13 is connected to one end of the switch S41 and one end of the switch S42.

[0089] The capacitor C14 has two electrodes. One of the two electrodes of the capacitor C14 is connected to one end of the switch S13 and one end of the switch S14. The other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C14 is connected to one end of the switch S23 and one end of the switch S24.

[0090] The capacitor C15 has two electrodes. One of the two electrodes of the capacitor C15 is connected to one end of the switch S23 and one end of the switch S24. The other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C15 is connected to one end of the switch S33 and one end of the switch S34.

[0091] The capacitor C16 has two electrodes. One of the two electrodes of the capacitor C16 is connected to one end of the switch S33 and one end of the switch S34. The other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C16 is connected to one end of the switch S43 and one end of the switch S44.

[0092] The group of capacitors C11 and C14 , the group of capacitors C12 and C15 , and the group of capacitors C13 and C16 can be charged and discharged complementarily by repeating the first stage and the second stage.

[0093] Specifically, in the first stage, switches S12, S13, S22, S23, S32, S33, S42, and S43 are turned on. As a result, for example, one of the two electrodes of capacitor C12 is connected to node N3, the other of the two electrodes of capacitor C12 and one of the two electrodes of capacitor C15 are connected to node N2, and the other of the two electrodes of capacitor C15 is connected to node N1.

[0094] On the other hand, in the second phase, switches S11, S14, S21, S24, S31, S34, S41, and S44 are turned on. As a result, for example, one of the two electrodes of capacitor C15 is connected to node N3, the other of the two electrodes of capacitor C15 and one of the two electrodes of capacitor C12 are connected to node N2, and the other of the two electrodes of capacitor C12 is connected to node N1.

[0095] By repeating the first and second stages, for example, when one of the capacitors C12 and C15 is charged by the node N2, the other of the capacitors C12 and C15 can be discharged to the capacitor C30. In other words, the capacitors C12 and C15 can be charged and discharged complementarily.

[0096] The group of capacitors C11 and C14 and the group of capacitors C13 and C16 can also be charged and discharged complementarily similarly to the group of capacitors C12 and C15 by repeating the first stage and the second stage.

[0097] The capacitors C10 , C20 , C30 , and C40 function as smoothing capacitors, respectively. In other words, the capacitors C10 , C20 , C30 , and C40 are used to hold and smooth the voltages V1 to V4 at the nodes N1 to N4 , respectively.

[0098] The capacitor C10 is connected between the node N1 and the ground. Specifically, one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C10 is connected to the node N1. On the other hand, the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C10 is connected to the ground.

[0099] The capacitor C20 is connected between the nodes N2 and N1. Specifically, one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C20 is connected to the node N2. On the other hand, the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C20 is connected to the node N1.

[0100] The capacitor C30 is connected between the nodes N3 and N2. Specifically, one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C30 is connected to the node N3. On the other hand, the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C30 is connected to the node N2.

[0101] The capacitor C40 is connected between the nodes N4 and N3. Specifically, one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C40 is connected to the node N4. On the other hand, the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C40 is connected to the node N3.

[0102] The switch S11 is connected between one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C11 and the node N3. Specifically, one end of the switch S11 is connected to one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C11. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S11 is connected to the node N3.

[0103] The switch S12 is connected between one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C11 and the node N4. Specifically, one end of the switch S12 is connected to one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C11. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S12 is connected to the node N4.

[0104] The switch S21 is connected between one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C12 and the node N2. Specifically, one end of the switch S21 is connected to one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C12 and the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C11. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S21 is connected to the node N2.

[0105] The switch S22 is connected between one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C12 and the node N3. Specifically, one end of the switch S22 is connected to one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C12 and the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C11. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S22 is connected to the node N3.

[0106] The switch S31 is connected between the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C12 and the node N1. Specifically, one end of the switch S31 is connected to the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C12 and one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C13. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S31 is connected to the node N1.

[0107] The switch S32 is connected between the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C12 and the node N2. Specifically, one end of the switch S32 is connected to the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C12 and one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C13. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S32 is connected to the node N2. In other words, the other end of the switch S32 is connected to the other end of the switch S21.

[0108] The switch S41 is connected between the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C13 and the ground line. Specifically, one end of the switch S41 is connected to the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C13. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S41 is connected to the ground line.

[0109] The switch S42 is connected between the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C13 and the node N1. Specifically, one end of the switch S42 is connected to the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C13. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S42 is connected to the node N1. In other words, the other end of the switch S42 is connected to the other end of the switch S31.

[0110] The switch S13 is connected between one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C14 and the node N3. Specifically, one end of the switch S13 is connected to one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C14. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S13 is connected to the node N3. In other words, the other end of the switch S13 is connected to the other end of the switch S11 and the other end of the switch S22.

[0111] The switch S14 is connected between one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C14 and the node N4. Specifically, one end of the switch S14 is connected to one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C14. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S14 is connected to the node N4. In other words, the other end of the switch S14 is connected to the other end of the switch S12.

[0112] The switch S23 is connected between one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C15 and the node N2. Specifically, one end of the switch S23 is connected to one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C15 and the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C14. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S23 is connected to the node N2. In other words, the other end of the switch S23 is connected to the other end of the switch S21 and the other end of the switch S32.

[0113] The switch S24 is connected between one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C15 and the node N3. Specifically, one end of the switch S24 is connected to one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C15 and the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C14. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S24 is connected to the node N3. In other words, the other end of the switch S24 is connected to the other end of the switch S11, the other end of the switch S22, and the other end of the switch S13.

[0114] The switch S33 is connected between the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C15 and the node N1. Specifically, one end of the switch S33 is connected to the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C15 and one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C16. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S33 is connected to the node N1. In other words, the other end of the switch S33 is connected to the other end of the switch S31 and the other end of the switch S42.

[0115] The switch S34 is connected between the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C15 and the node N2. Specifically, one end of the switch S34 is connected to the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C15 and one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C16. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S34 is connected to the node N2. In other words, the other end of the switch S34 is connected to the other end of the switch S21, the other end of the switch S32, and the other end of the switch S23.

[0116] The switch S43 is connected between the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C16 and the ground line. Specifically, one end of the switch S43 is connected to the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C16. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S43 is connected to the ground line.

[0117] The switch S44 is connected between the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C16 and the node N1. Specifically, one end of the switch S44 is connected to the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C16. On the other hand, the other end of the switch S44 is connected to the node N1. In other words, the other end of the switch S44 is connected to the other end of the switch S31, the other end of the switch S42, and the other end of the switch S33.

[0118] The switches of the first group including switches S12, S13, S22, S23, S32, S33, S42 and S43 and the switches of the second group including switches S11, S14, S21, S24, S31, S34, S41 and S44 are switched on and off complementarily based on the control signal S2. Specifically, in the first stage, the switches of the first group are turned on, and the switches of the second group are turned off. Conversely, in the second stage, the switches of the first group are turned off, and the switches of the second group are turned on.

[0119] For example, in one of the first stage and the second stage, the capacitors C10 to C40 are charged from the capacitors C11 to C13, and in the other of the first stage and the second stage, the capacitors C10 to C40 are charged from the capacitors C14 to C16. In other words, the capacitors C10 to C40 are always charged from the capacitors C11 to C13 or the capacitors C14 to C16, so even if the current flows from the nodes N1 to N4 to the output switch circuit 30 at a high speed, the nodes N1 to N4 can be replenished with charges at a high speed, so the potential fluctuation of the nodes N1 to N4 can be suppressed.

[0120] By operating in this way, the switch capacitor circuit 20 can maintain approximately equal voltages at both ends of each of the capacitors C10, C20, C30, and C40. Specifically, at the four nodes labeled V1 to V4, voltages V1 to V4 (voltages relative to the ground potential) that satisfy V1: V2: V3: V4 = 1: 2: 3: 4 are maintained. The voltage levels of the voltages V1 to V4 correspond to a plurality of discrete voltage levels that can be supplied to the output switch circuit 30 through the switch capacitor circuit 20.

[0121] In addition, the voltage ratio (V1:V2:V3:V4) is not limited to (1:2:3:4). For example, the voltage ratio (V1:V2:V3:V4) may be (1:2:4:8).

[0122] in addition, Figure 3The structure of the switched capacitor circuit 20 shown is an example and is not limited thereto. Figure 3 In the embodiment, the switched capacitor circuit 20 is configured to supply voltages of four discrete voltage levels, but is not limited thereto. The switched capacitor circuit 20 may also be configured to supply voltages of any number of discrete voltage levels or more. For example, when supplying voltages of two discrete voltage levels, the switched capacitor circuit 20 may include at least capacitors C12 and C15, and switches S21 to S24, and S31 to S34.

[0123] [1.2.2 Circuit Structure of Output Switch Circuit 30]

[0124] Next, the circuit structure of the output switch circuit 30 is described. The output switch circuit 30 is connected to the digital control circuit 60. Figure 3 As shown, the output switch circuit 30 includes input terminals 131 to 134 , switches S51 to S54 , and an output terminal 130 .

[0125] The output terminal 130 is connected to the external connection terminal 141. The output terminal 130 is a terminal for supplying a power supply voltage selected from the voltages V1 to V4 to the power amplifier 2A via the external connection terminal 141.

[0126] The input terminals 131 to 134 are respectively connected to the nodes N4 to N1 of the switched capacitor circuit 20. The input terminals 131 to 134 are terminals for receiving the voltages V4 to V1 from the switched capacitor circuit 20.

[0127] The switch S51 is connected between the input terminal 131 and the output terminal 130. Specifically, the switch S51 has a terminal connected to the input terminal 131 and a terminal connected to the output terminal 130. In this connection structure, the switch S51 can switch the connection and non-connection between the input terminal 131 and the output terminal 130 by switching on / off (closed / opened) according to the control signal S3.

[0128] The switch S52 is connected between the input terminal 132 and the output terminal 130. Specifically, the switch S52 has a terminal connected to the input terminal 132 and a terminal connected to the output terminal 130. In this connection structure, the switch S52 can switch the connection and non-connection between the input terminal 132 and the output terminal 130 by switching on / off according to the control signal S3.

[0129] The switch S53 is connected between the input terminal 133 and the output terminal 130. Specifically, the switch S53 has a terminal connected to the input terminal 133 and a terminal connected to the output terminal 130. In this connection structure, the switch S53 can switch the connection and non-connection between the input terminal 133 and the output terminal 130 by switching on / off according to the control signal S3.

[0130] The switch S54 is connected between the input terminal 134 and the output terminal 130. Specifically, the switch S54 has a terminal connected to the input terminal 134 and a terminal connected to the output terminal 130. In this connection structure, the switch S54 can switch the connection and non-connection between the input terminal 134 and the output terminal 130 by switching on / off according to the control signal S3.

[0131] The switches S51 to S54 are controlled to be exclusively turned on. In other words, only one of the switches S51 to S54 is turned on, and the rest of the switches S51 to S54 are turned off. Thus, the output switch circuit 30 can output one voltage selected from the voltages V1 to V4.

[0132] also, Figure 3 The structure of the output switch circuit 30 shown is an example and is not limited thereto. In particular, the switches S51 to S54 may have any structure as long as they can select at least one of the four input terminals 131 to 134 to be connected to the output terminal 130. For example, the output switch circuit 30 may also include a switch connected between the switches S51 to S53 and the switch S54 and the output terminal 130. For another example, the output switch circuit 30 may also include a switch connected between the switches S51 and S52 and the switches S53 and S54 and the output terminal 130.

[0133] Furthermore, when voltages of two discrete voltage levels are supplied from the switched capacitor circuit 20 , the output switch circuit 30 only needs to include at least two of the switches S51 to S54 .

[0134] [1.2.3 Circuit Structure of Pre-regulator Circuit 10]

[0135] First, the structure of the pre-regulator circuit 10 is described. Figure 3 As shown, the pre-regulator circuit 10 includes an input terminal 110 , output terminals 111 to 114 , inductor connection terminals 115 and 116 , switches S61 to S63 , S71 and S72 , a power inductor L71 , and capacitors C61 to C64 .

[0136] The input terminal 110 is an input terminal for a DC voltage. In other words, the input terminal 110 is a terminal for receiving an input voltage from the DC power supply 50 .

[0137] The output terminal 111 is an output terminal of the voltage V4. In other words, the output terminal 111 is a terminal for supplying the voltage V4 to the switched capacitor circuit 20. The output terminal 111 is connected to the node N4 of the switched capacitor circuit 20.

[0138] The output terminal 112 is an output terminal of the voltage V3. In other words, the output terminal 112 is a terminal for supplying the voltage V3 to the switched capacitor circuit 20. The output terminal 112 is connected to the node N3 of the switched capacitor circuit 20.

[0139] The output terminal 113 is an output terminal of the voltage V2. In other words, the output terminal 113 is a terminal for supplying the voltage V2 to the switched capacitor circuit 20. The output terminal 113 is connected to the node N2 of the switched capacitor circuit 20.

[0140] The output terminal 114 is an output terminal of the voltage V1. In other words, the output terminal 114 is a terminal for supplying the voltage V1 to the switched capacitor circuit 20. The output terminal 114 is connected to the node N1 of the switched capacitor circuit 20.

[0141] The inductor connection terminal 115 is connected to one end of the power inductor L71 , and the inductor connection terminal 116 is connected to the other end of the power inductor L71 .

[0142] The switch S71 is connected between the input terminal 110 and one end of the power inductor L71. Specifically, the switch S71 has a terminal connected to the input terminal 110 and a terminal connected to one end of the power inductor L71 via the inductor connection terminal 115. In this connection structure, the switch S71 can switch the connection and non-connection between the input terminal 110 and one end of the power inductor L71 by switching on / off based on the control signal S1.

[0143] The switch S72 is connected between one end of the power inductor L71 and the ground line. Specifically, the switch S72 has a terminal connected to one end of the power inductor L71 via the inductor connection terminal 115, and a terminal connected to the ground line. In this connection structure, the switch S72 can switch the connection and non-connection between one end of the power inductor L71 and the ground line by switching on / off based on the control signal S1.

[0144] The switch S61 is connected between the other end of the power inductor L71 and the output terminal 111. Specifically, the switch S61 has a terminal connected to the other end of the power inductor L71 via the inductor connection terminal 116, and a terminal connected to the output terminal 111. In this connection structure, the switch S61 can switch the connection and non-connection between the other end of the power inductor L71 and the output terminal 111 by switching on / off based on the control signal S1.

[0145] The switch S62 is connected between the other end of the power inductor L71 and the output terminal 112. Specifically, the switch S62 has a terminal connected to the other end of the power inductor L71 via the inductor connection terminal 116, and a terminal connected to the output terminal 112. In this connection structure, the switch S62 can switch the connection and non-connection between the other end of the power inductor L71 and the output terminal 112 by switching on / off based on the control signal S1.

[0146] The switch S63 is connected between the other end of the power inductor L71 and the output terminal 113. Specifically, the switch S63 has a terminal connected to the other end of the power inductor L71 via the inductor connection terminal 116, and a terminal connected to the output terminal 113. In this connection structure, the switch S63 can switch the connection and non-connection between the other end of the power inductor L71 and the output terminal 113 by switching on / off based on the control signal S1.

[0147] One of the two electrodes of the capacitor C61 is connected to the switch S61 and the output terminal 111. The other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C61 is connected to the switch S62, the output terminal 112, and one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C62.

[0148] One of the two electrodes of the capacitor C62 is connected to the switch S62, the output terminal 112, and the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C61, and the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C62 is connected to the path connecting the switch S63, the output terminal 113, and one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C63.

[0149] One of the two electrodes of the capacitor C63 is connected to the switch S63, the output terminal 113, and the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C62. The other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C63 is connected to the output terminal 114 and one of the two electrodes of the capacitor C64.

[0150] One of the two electrodes of the capacitor C64 is connected to the output terminal 114 and the other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C63. The other of the two electrodes of the capacitor C64 is connected to the ground.

[0151] The switches S61 to S63 are controlled to be exclusively turned on. In other words, only one of the switches S61 to S63 is turned on, and the remaining switches of the switches S61 to S63 are turned off. By turning on only one of the switches S61 to S63, the pre-regulator circuit 10 can change the voltage supplied to the switched capacitor circuit 20 to the voltage level of the voltage V2 to V4.

[0152] The pre-regulator circuit 10 configured in this manner can supply electric charge to the switched capacitor circuit 20 via at least one of the output terminals 111 to 113 .

[0153] Furthermore, when the input voltage is converted into one first voltage, the pre-regulator circuit 10 only needs to include at least the switches S71 and S72 and the power inductor L71 .

[0154] [1.2.4 Circuit Structure of Filter Circuit 40A]

[0155] Next, the circuit structure of the filter circuit 40A is described. The filter circuit 40A is configured to be connected to the voltage supply paths P41 and P42 in a shunt manner, and can attenuate the noise components of the signal (multiple discrete voltages) transmitted on the voltage supply paths P41 and P42. The filter circuit 40A is sometimes called a pulse shaping circuit or a terminal circuit.

[0156] like Figure 3 As shown, the filter circuit 40A is connected to the voltage supply path P41 via a switch S55. In other words, the filter circuit 40A is connected between the voltage supply path P41 and the ground via the switch S55. In addition, the filter circuit 40A is also connected between the voltage supply path P42 and the ground. The filter circuit 40A includes an inductor L51 and a capacitor C51 connected in series.

[0157] The inductor L51 is an example of a first inductor, and is connected between the switch S55 and the capacitor C51. Specifically, one end of the inductor L51 is connected to the switch S55, and the other end of the inductor L51 is connected to the capacitor C51.

[0158] The capacitor C51 is an example of a first capacitor, and is connected between the inductor L51 and the ground line. Specifically, one end of the capacitor C51 is connected to the inductor L51, and the other end of the capacitor C51 is connected to the ground line.

[0159] The switch S55 is an example of a first switch, and is connected between the output switch circuit 30 and the external connection terminal 142, and is connected between the voltage supply path P41 and the filter circuit 40A. Specifically, one end of the switch S55 is connected to the voltage supply path P41, and the other end of the switch S55 is connected to the inductor L51 and the external connection terminal 142.

[0160] In the switch S55 connected in this way, on / off is switched based on the control signal S4. Specifically, on / off of the switch S55 is controlled as follows.

[0161] (1) Amplifying the high frequency signal RF through the power amplifier 2A A, and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2B B RF C In the case of high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth (that is, the modulation bandwidth) is greater than the threshold width, the switch S55 is opened (disconnected). As a result, the inductor L51 and the capacitor C51 are disconnected from the voltage supply path P41. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2A via the external connection terminal 141. T1 However, the filter circuit 40A does not function as a band-stop filter (also called a notch filter) in the voltage supply path P41.

[0162] (2) Amplifying the high frequency signal RF through the power amplifier 2A A , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2B B And RF C In the case of high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is less than the threshold width, the switch S55 is closed (turned on). As a result, the inductor L51 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P41 in a shunt manner. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2A via the external connection terminal 141. T1 , the filter circuit 40A functions as a band-stop filter in the voltage supply path P41.

[0163] (3) The high frequency signal RF is amplified by the power amplifier 2B. B or RF C , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2A A In the case of , the switch S55 is closed, and the inductor L51 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P42 by shunt. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2B via the external connection terminal 142. T2 , the filter circuit 40A functions as a band-stop filter in the voltage supply path P42.

[0164] As the threshold width (an example of the first threshold width) used for controlling the switch S55, a value (for example, 100 MHz, etc.) predetermined through experiments and / or experience can be used.

[0165] As the stop band of the filter circuit 40A, a frequency band depending on the threshold width is realized. For example, when 50 MHz is used as the threshold width and 1.5 is used as the specified coefficient, the stop band of the filter circuit 40A includes a frequency (75 MHz) obtained by multiplying the value of the threshold width (50 MHz) by the specified coefficient (1.5). Thus, the filter circuit 40A can reduce the noise component near 75 MHz on the voltage supply path P41. As a result, the high-frequency signal RF can be suppressed in the power amplifier 2A. A The IMD between the 75 MHz component and the noise can reduce the adjacent channel leakage power (ACP: Adjacent Channel leakage Power) in the power amplifier 2A. The threshold width and the predetermined coefficient are examples and are not limited to these values.

[0166] The stop band is defined as a frequency band having an insertion loss of 15 dB or more. Therefore, the stop band of the filter circuit 40A can be determined by measuring the power loss between the output end of the output switch circuit 30 and the external connection terminal 141 and detecting the frequency band where the measured loss is 15 dB or more.

[0167] also, Figure 3 The structure of the filter circuit 40A shown is an example and is not limited to this. For example, the filter circuit 40A may not be connected to the voltage supply path P41 via the switch S55. In other words, the switch S55 may not be included in the tracker circuit 1A. For another example, the switch S55 may be connected between the voltage supply path P42 and the filter circuit 40A, or may be connected between the filter circuit 40A and the ground line. In addition, the filter circuit 40A may also be partially or completely composed of parasitic reactance and / or parasitic resistance. The parasitic reactance, for example, includes the inductance and / or capacitance of the metal wiring (metal trace) connecting the two nodes. In addition, the parasitic resistance, for example, includes the resistance of the metal wiring connecting the two nodes.

[0168] For example, when the power amplifier 2A selectively amplifies transmission signals of a plurality of frequency bands, the switch S55 may be controlled to be turned on / off according to the frequency band of the amplified transmission signal.

[0169] [1.2.5 Circuit structure of digital control circuit 60]

[0170] Next, the circuit structure of the digital control circuit 60 is described. Figure 4 As shown, the digital control circuit 60 includes a first controller 61 , a second controller 62 , capacitors C81 and C82 , and control terminals 601 to 604 .

[0171] The first controller 61 is capable of processing the source synchronous digital control signal received from the RFIC5 via the control terminals 601 and 602 to generate control signals S1, S2 and S4. The control signal S1 is a signal for controlling the on / off of switches S61 to S63, S71 and S72 included in the pre-regulator circuit 10. The control signal S2 is a signal for controlling the on / off of switches S11 to S14, S21 to S24, S31 to S34 and S41 to S44 included in the switch capacitor circuit 20. The control signal S4 is a signal for controlling the on / off of switch S55. In addition, a feedback signal for controlling the pre-regulator circuit 10 may also be input into the first controller 61.

[0172] In addition, the digital control signal processed in the first controller 61 is not limited to the source synchronous digital control signal. For example, the first controller 61 may also process the clock embedded digital control signal. In addition, the first controller 61 may also generate a control signal for controlling the output switch circuit 30.

[0173] In addition, although in the present embodiment, a set of clock signals and data signals are used as digital control signals for the pre-regulator circuit 10, the switched capacitor circuit 20, and the filter circuit 40A, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a set of clock signals and data signals may be used separately as digital control signals for the pre-regulator circuit 10, the switched capacitor circuit 20, and the filter circuit 40A.

[0174] The second controller 62 processes the digital control level (DCL) signals (DCL1, DCL2) received from the RFIC5 via the control terminals 603 and 604 to generate the control signal S3. The DCL signals (DCL1, DCL2) are generated based on the envelope signal of the high frequency signal, etc., by the RFIC5. The control signal S3 is a signal for controlling the on / off of the switches S51 to S54 included in the output switch circuit 30.

[0175] The DCL signals (DCL1, DCL2) are each a one-bit signal. Voltages V1 to V4 are represented by a combination of two one-bit signals. For example, V1, V2, V3, and V4 are represented by "00", "01", "10", and "11", respectively. Gray code can also be used to express voltage levels.

[0176] The capacitor C81 is connected between the first controller 61 and the ground line. For example, the capacitor C81 is connected between the power line and the ground line for supplying power to the first controller 61, and functions as a bypass capacitor. The capacitor C82 is connected between the second controller 62 and the ground line. In addition, the capacitors C81 and C82 may not be included in the digital control circuit 60.

[0177] In addition, although in the present embodiment, two digital control level signals are used for the control of the output switch circuit 30, the number of digital control level signals is not limited thereto. For example, one or more arbitrary numbers of digital control level signals may be used depending on the number of voltage levels that can be selected by each output switch circuit 30. In addition, the digital control signal used for the control of the output switch circuit 30 is not limited to the digital control level signal.

[0178] [1.3 Tracking method]

[0179] Next, refer to Figure 5 A method of supplying a plurality of discrete voltages, that is, a tracking method, of the tracker circuit 1A configured as described above will be described. Figure 5 This is a flowchart showing the tracking method according to the present embodiment.

[0180] For example, RFIC5 determines whether to amplify the high-frequency signal RF in frequency band A through power amplifier 2A. A (S101) Here, when it is determined that the high frequency signal RF in the frequency band A is amplified by the power amplifier 2A, A In the case of (S101: Yes), it is determined that the high frequency signal RF A The channel bandwidth of the high frequency signal RF is less than the threshold width (S103). A When the channel bandwidth is less than the threshold width (S103: Yes), the digital control circuit 60 receives the digital control signal indicating the closing of the switch S55, and sends the control signal S4 for closing the switch S55 to the switch S55. By closing the switch S55 based on the control signal S4, the filter circuit 40A is connected to the voltage supply path P41 (S105).

[0181] On the other hand, when the high frequency signal RF is determined A When the channel bandwidth is greater than the threshold width (S103: No), the digital control circuit 60 receives the digital control signal indicating that the switch S55 is turned on, and sends a control signal S4 for turning on the switch S55 to the switch S55. By turning on the switch S55 based on the control signal S4, the filter circuit 40A is disconnected from the voltage supply path P41 (S107).

[0182] In the state where the switch S55 is controlled in this way, the output switch circuit 30 selectively outputs at least one of the plurality of discrete voltages to the external connection terminal 141 based on the control signal S3 (S109). As a result, at least one of the plurality of discrete voltages is selectively supplied to the power amplifier 2A.

[0183] In the case where it is not determined that the high frequency signal RF of the frequency band A is amplified by the power amplifier 2A A In the case of (S101: No), in other words, when it is determined that the high-frequency signal RF in the frequency band B is amplified by the power amplifier 2B, B Or the high frequency signal RF of band C C In the case of , the digital control circuit 60 receives the digital control signal indicating closing the switch S55, and sends the control signal S4 for closing the switch S55 to the switch S55. By closing the switch S55 based on the control signal S4, the output switch circuit 30 is connected to the external connection terminal 142 (in other words, connected to the voltage supply path P42), and the filter circuit 40A is connected to the voltage supply path P42 (S111).

[0184] In the state where the switch S55 is controlled in this way, the output switch circuit 30 selectively outputs at least one of the plurality of discrete voltages to the external connection terminal 142 based on the control signal S3 (S113). As a result, at least one of the plurality of discrete voltages is selectively supplied to the power amplifier 2B.

[0185] [1.4 Example of installation of tracker circuit 1A]

[0186] Next, as an example of installing the tracker circuit 1A configured as above, refer to Figure 6 to Figure 8 The tracker module 100 will be described. In addition, in this implementation example, the power inductor L71 included in the pre-regulator circuit 10 is not arranged on the module substrate 90 , but the present invention is not limited thereto. In other words, the power inductor L71 may be arranged on the module substrate 90 .

[0187] Figure 6 1 is a top view of tracker module 100 according to the present embodiment. Figure 7 1 is a plan view of the tracker module 100 according to the present embodiment, and is a view showing the main surface 90 b side of the module substrate 90 as viewed from the positive side along the z-axis. Figure 8 2 is a cross-sectional view of tracker module 100 according to the present embodiment. Figure 8 The cross sections of the tracker module 100 are Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 Section on line VIII-VIII.

[0188] In addition, Figure 6 to Figure 8In FIG. 1 , a portion of wiring connecting a plurality of circuit components disposed on the module substrate 90 is omitted from illustration. Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 In the figure, the resin member 91 covering the plurality of circuit components and the surface shielding electrode layer 92 covering the resin member 91 are omitted. Figure 6 In FIG. 1 , shaded blocks represent arbitrary circuit components that are not essential to the present invention.

[0189] The tracker module 100 includes Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 In addition to the multiple circuit components of active elements and passive elements included in the pre-regulator circuit 10, switch capacitor circuit 20, output switch circuit 30, filter circuit 40A, and digital control circuit 60 shown, it also has a module substrate 90, a resin component 91, a shielding electrode layer 92, and multiple electrodes 150.

[0190] The module substrate 90 has main surfaces 90a and 90b facing each other. A ground electrode layer 90e and the like are formed in the module substrate 90 and on the main surface 90a. Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 In the embodiment, the module substrate 90 has a rectangular shape in a plan view, but is not limited to this shape.

[0191] As the module substrate 90, for example, a low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC: Low Temperature Co-fired Ceramics) substrate or a high temperature co-fired ceramic (HTCC: High Temperature Co-fired Ceramics) substrate having a stacked structure of multiple dielectric layers, a component-embedded substrate, a substrate having a redistribution layer (RDL: Redistribution Layer), or a printed circuit substrate can be used, but it is not limited to these substrates.

[0192] The integrated circuit 80 , capacitors C10 to C16 , C20 , C30 , C40 , C51 , C61 to C64 , C81 , and C82 , an inductor L51 , and a resin member 91 are arranged on the main surface 90 a .

[0193] The integrated circuit 80 includes a PR switch section 80a, an SC switch section 80b, an OS switch section 80c, and a filter switch section 80d. The PR switch section 80a includes switches S61 to S63, S71, and S72. The SC switch section 80b includes switches S11 to S14, S21 to S24, S31 to S34, and S41 to S44. The OS switch section 80c includes switches S51 to S54. The filter switch section 80d includes a switch S55.

[0194] In addition, although Figure 6 In the embodiment, the PR switch section 80a, the SC switch section 80b, the OS switch section 80c and the filter switch section 80d are included in a single integrated circuit 80, but are not limited to this. For example, the PR switch section 80a and the SC switch section 80b may be included in one integrated circuit, and the OS switch section 80c and the filter switch section 80d may be included in other integrated circuits. For another example, the SC switch section 80b, the OS switch section 80c and the filter switch section 80d may be included in one integrated circuit, and the PR switch section 80a may be included in other integrated circuits. For another example, the PR switch section 80a, the OS switch section 80c and the filter switch section 80d may be included in one integrated circuit, and the SC switch section 80b may be included in other integrated circuits. For another example, the PR switch section 80a, the SC switch section 80b, the OS switch section 80c and the filter switch section 80d may be independently included in four integrated circuits. In addition, multiple integrated circuits can be manufactured at different process technology nodes.

[0195] In addition, although Figure 6 In the embodiment, the integrated circuit 80 has a rectangular shape in a plan view of the module substrate 90 , but is not limited to this shape.

[0196] The integrated circuit 80 can be formed using, for example, CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor), and specifically, can be manufactured by an SOI (Silicon on Insulator) process. The integrated circuit 80 is not limited to CMOS.

[0197] Capacitors C10 to C16, C20, C30, C40, C51, C61 to C64, C81, and C82 are mounted as chip capacitors, respectively. A chip capacitor refers to a surface mount device (SMD: Surface Mount Device) constituting a capacitor. In addition, the mounting of multiple capacitors is not limited to chip capacitors. For example, a part or all of the multiple capacitors may be included in an integrated passive device (IPD: Integrated Passive Device), or may be included in an integrated circuit 80.

[0198] The inductor L51 is mounted as a chip inductor. A chip inductor refers to an SMD that constitutes an inductor. In addition, the mounting of the inductor L51 is not limited to a chip inductor. For example, the inductor L51 may also be included in an IPD.

[0199] The plurality of capacitors and inductors arranged on the main surface 90 a are grouped for each circuit and arranged around the integrated circuit 80 .

[0200] Specifically, in a plan view of the module substrate 90, the group of capacitors C61 to C64 included in the pre-regulator circuit 10 is arranged in a region on the main surface 90a sandwiched between a straight line along the left side of the integrated circuit 80 and a straight line along the left side of the module substrate 90. Thus, the group of circuit components included in the pre-regulator circuit 10 is arranged near the PR switch section 80a in the integrated circuit 80.

[0201] When the module substrate 90 is viewed from above, the group of capacitors C10 to C16, C20, C30, and C40 included in the switched capacitor circuit 20 is arranged in an area on the main surface 90a sandwiched between a straight line along the upper side of the integrated circuit 80 and a straight line along the upper side of the module substrate 90, and an area on the main surface 90a sandwiched between a straight line along the right side of the integrated circuit 80 and a straight line along the right side of the module substrate 90. Thus, the group of circuit components included in the switched capacitor circuit 20 is arranged near the SC switch section 80b in the integrated circuit 80. In other words, the SC switch section 80b is arranged at a position closer to the switched capacitor circuit 20 than each of the PR switch section 80a and the OS switch section 80c.

[0202] In a plan view of the module substrate 90, the group of capacitors C51 and inductors L51 included in the filter circuit 40A is arranged in a region on the main surface 90a sandwiched between a straight line along the lower side of the integrated circuit 80 and a straight line along the lower side of the module substrate 90. Thus, the group of circuit components included in the filter circuit 40A is arranged near the filter switch section 80d in the integrated circuit 80. In other words, the filter switch section 80d is arranged at a position closer to the capacitor C51 and inductor L51 of the filter circuit 40A than the PR switch section 80a and the SC switch section 80b.

[0203] A plurality of electrodes 150 are arranged on the main surface 90b. At least one of the plurality of electrodes 150 is Figure 2 The external connection terminals 141 shown play a role. The plurality of electrodes 150 are electrically connected to the plurality of electronic components arranged on the main surface 90a via through-hole conductors formed in the module substrate 90. Copper electrodes can be used as the plurality of electrodes 150, but are not limited thereto. For example, solder electrodes can also be used as the plurality of electrodes.

[0204] Resin member 91 covers main surface 90a and at least a portion of the plurality of electronic components on main surface 90a. Resin member 91 has a function of ensuring reliability such as mechanical strength and moisture resistance of the plurality of electronic components on main surface 90a. Tracker module 100 may not include resin member 91.

[0205] The shielding electrode layer 92 is an example of a metal layer, for example, a metal thin film formed by a sputtering method. The shielding electrode layer 92 is formed to cover the surface (top and side) of the resin member 91. The shielding electrode layer 92 is connected to the ground line to suppress the intrusion of external noise into the electronic components constituting the tracker module 100, and the noise generated in the tracker module 100 from interfering with other modules or other devices. In addition, the tracker module 100 may not include the shielding electrode layer 92.

[0206] also, Figure 6 to Figure 8 The structure of the tracker module 100 shown is an example and is not limited thereto. For example, a part of the capacitor and the inductor arranged on the main surface 90a may be formed in the module substrate 90. In addition, a part of the capacitor and the inductor arranged on the main surface 90a may not be included in the tracker module 100, and may not be arranged on the module substrate 90.

[0207] [1.5 Effects, etc.]

[0208] As described above, the tracker circuit 1A of this embodiment includes an output switch circuit 30 configured to selectively output at least one of a plurality of discrete voltages to the power amplifiers 2A and 2B. The power amplifier 2A is configured to amplify the high-frequency signal RF in the frequency band A. A The power amplifier 2B is configured to amplify the high frequency signal RF of the frequency band B. B The tracker circuit also includes: a voltage supply path P41, connecting the output switch circuit 30 and the power amplifier 2A; a voltage supply path P42, connecting the output switch circuit 30 and the power amplifier 2B; and a filter circuit 40A, which can be connected to the voltage supply paths P41 and P42 in a shunt manner.

[0209] In addition, according to other viewpoints, the tracker circuit 1A of this embodiment includes: an external connection terminal 141, connected to the power amplifier 2A; an external connection terminal 142, connected to the power amplifier 2B; an output switch circuit 30, configured to selectively output at least one of a plurality of discrete voltages to the external connection terminals 141 and 142; a voltage supply path P41, connecting the output switch circuit 30 and the external connection terminal 141; a voltage supply path P42, connecting the output switch circuit 30 and the external connection terminal 142; and a filter circuit 40A, connected between the voltage supply path P41 and the ground, and connected between the voltage supply path P42 and the ground.

[0210] Accordingly, since the filter circuit 40A can be connected in shunt with the voltage supply paths P41 and P42 of the output switch circuit 30, noise can be reduced in the voltage supply paths P41 and P42. Therefore, the IMD in the power amplifiers 2A and 2B can be suppressed, and spurious emissions can be reduced, such as improving ACPR / ACLR. In addition, the filter circuit 40A is not connected in series with the voltage supply paths P41 and P42, but can be connected in shunt. Therefore, the loss in the voltage supply paths P41 and P42 can be reduced, and the degradation of multiple discrete voltages supplied to the power amplifiers 2A and 2B can be suppressed. In addition, since the filter circuit 40A can be connected to both the voltage supply paths P41 and P42, the circuit scale can be reduced compared to the case where the voltage supply paths P41 and P42 require filter circuits independently.

[0211] For example, the tracker circuit 1A of this embodiment may further include a switch S55 connected between the voltage supply path P41 and the filter circuit 40A, and the filter circuit 40A may include an inductor L51 and a capacitor C51 connected in series between the switch S55 and the ground.

[0212] Accordingly, since the switch S55 is connected between the voltage supply path P41 and the filter circuit 40A, the connection and disconnection of the filter circuit 40A and the voltage supply path P41 can be switched. Therefore, the reduction of noise on the priority voltage supply path P41 and the suppression of degradation of multiple discrete voltages on the priority voltage supply path P41 can be switched.

[0213] For example, in the tracker circuit 1A of the present embodiment, one end of the switch S55 may be connected to the output switch circuit 30 , and the other end of the switch S55 may be connected to the filter circuit 40A and the power amplifier 2B (external connection terminal 142 ).

[0214] According to this, since the switch S55 is connected in series to the voltage supply path P42, the voltage supply path P42 can be disconnected from the voltage supply path P41 by opening the switch S55. Therefore, the degradation of the plurality of discrete voltages on the voltage supply path P41 can be further suppressed.

[0215] For example, in the tracker circuit 1A of the present embodiment, after the high frequency signal RF is amplified by the power amplifier 2A, A In the case of (i) if the high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth of the signal RF is above the first threshold width, the switch S55 is turned on. (ii) If the high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is less than the first threshold width, the switch S55 is closed, and the high frequency signal RF can also be amplified by the power amplifier 2B. B In this case, close switch S55.

[0216] Accordingly, in the high frequency signal RF A When the channel bandwidth is narrow, close the switch S55 of the filter circuit 40A. If the channel bandwidth is narrow, the distance (frequency) from the center frequency of the channel to the adjacent channel is short, so the frequency of IMD that affects ACP is reduced. When multiple discrete voltages are supplied, the lower the frequency on the voltage supply path P41, the greater the noise. Therefore, if the channel bandwidth is narrow, the noise of the frequency of IMD that affects ACP is larger. Therefore, when the channel bandwidth is narrow, by closing the switch S55, the noise of the frequency of IMD that affects ACP can be reduced preferentially, and the spurious emission (that is, ACP) in the power amplifier 2A can be effectively reduced. On the other hand, in the case of the high-frequency signal RF A When the channel bandwidth is wide, the switch S55 of the filter circuit 40A is opened. If the channel bandwidth is wide, the changes of the plurality of discrete voltages become faster, so a better responsiveness is required for the voltage supply path P41. Therefore, when the channel bandwidth is wide, by opening the switch S55, the degradation of the responsiveness of the voltage supply path P41 can be suppressed, and the degradation of the plurality of discrete voltages on the voltage supply path P41 can be effectively suppressed.

[0217] In the tracker circuit 1A of the present embodiment, the frequency band A may be included in the range of 3300 to 5000 MHz, and the frequency band B may be included in the range of 1427 to 2690 MHz.

[0218] Accordingly, the connection and non-connection of the filter circuit 40A can be switched on the voltage supply path P41 for the higher frequency band A that can utilize a wider channel bandwidth. The wider the channel bandwidth, the faster the change in the power of the high-frequency signal, and the faster the change in the multiple discrete voltages that track it. Therefore, the degradation suppression effect of the multiple discrete voltages caused by the filter circuit 40A being cut off from the voltage supply path P41 for the higher frequency band A that can utilize a wider channel bandwidth is greater.

[0219] In addition, the tracking method of this embodiment is to amplify the high frequency signal RF of the frequency band A by the power amplifier 2A. A In the case of (i) if the high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is above the threshold width, the filter circuit 40A is not connected to the voltage supply path P41. A If the channel bandwidth is less than the threshold width, the filter circuit 40A is connected to the voltage supply path P41, (ii) at least one of the plurality of discrete voltages is selectively supplied to the power amplifier 2A via the voltage supply path P41, and the high-frequency signal RF of the frequency band B is amplified by the power amplifier 2B. B In the case of (i) the filter circuit 40A is connected to the voltage supply path P42, and (ii) at least one of the plurality of discrete voltages is selectively supplied to the power amplifier 2B via the voltage supply path P42.

[0220] Accordingly, in the high frequency signal RF A In the case where the channel bandwidth is narrow, the filter circuit 40A can be connected to the voltage supply path P41. If the channel bandwidth is narrow, the distance (frequency) from the center frequency of the channel to the adjacent channel is short, so the frequency of IMD that affects ACP is reduced. In the case of supplying multiple discrete voltages, the lower the frequency on the voltage supply path P41, the greater the noise, so if the channel bandwidth is narrow, the noise of the frequency of IMD that affects ACP is larger. Therefore, in the case of a narrow channel bandwidth, by connecting the filter circuit 40A to the voltage supply path P41, the noise of the frequency of IMD that affects ACP can be preferentially reduced, and the spurious emission (that is, ACP) in the power amplifier 2A can be effectively reduced. On the other hand, in the case of the high-frequency signal RF AWhen the channel bandwidth is wide, the filter circuit 40A can be cut off from the voltage supply path P41. If the channel bandwidth is wide, the changes of the plurality of discrete voltages become faster, so a better responsiveness is required for the voltage supply path P41. Therefore, when the channel bandwidth is wide, by cutting off the filter circuit 40A from the voltage supply path P41, the degradation of the responsiveness of the voltage supply path P41 can be suppressed, and the degradation of the plurality of discrete voltages on the voltage supply path P41 can be effectively suppressed.

[0221] (Variation 1 of Implementation Example 1)

[0222] Next, a modification example 1 of the embodiment 1 will be described. In this modification example, the configuration of the main filter circuit is different from that of the embodiment 1. Hereinafter, the tracker circuit of this modification example will be described with reference to the drawings, focusing on the differences from the embodiment 1.

[0223] [2.1 Circuit structure of tracker circuit 1B]

[0224] Reference Figure 2 as well as Fig. 9 The circuit configuration of the tracker circuit 1B according to this modification will be described. Fig. 9 1 is a partial circuit diagram of a tracker circuit 1B according to this variation.

[0225] also, Fig. 9 The circuit configuration is exemplified, and the tracker circuit 1B and the filter circuit 40B can be implemented using any of a variety of circuit implementations and circuit technologies. Therefore, the description of the filter circuit 40B provided below should not be interpreted in a limiting sense.

[0226] like Figure 2 as well as Fig. 9 As shown, the tracker circuit 1B includes a pre-regulator circuit 10, a switched capacitor circuit 20, an output switch circuit 30, a filter circuit 40B, a DC power supply 50, a digital control circuit 60, external connection terminals 141 and 142, and switches S55 to S5A.

[0227] Filter circuit 40B is an example of a first filter circuit, which is a pulse shaping network. Filter circuit 40B is configured to be connected to voltage supply paths P41 and P42 in shunt. Filter circuit 40B can attenuate the noise component of the signal (multiple discrete voltages) transmitted on voltage supply paths P41 and P42. Specifically, filter circuit 40B is connected to voltage supply path P41 in shunt via switch S55 or S56. In other words, filter circuit 40B is connected between voltage supply path P41 and ground via switch S55 or S56. And, filter circuit 40B is connected to voltage supply path P42 in shunt via switch S58 or S59. In other words, filter circuit 40B is connected between voltage supply path P42 and ground via switch S58 or S59.

[0228] like Fig. 9 As shown, the filter circuit 40B includes inductors L51 and L52 connected in series, and a capacitor C51.

[0229] The inductor L51 is an example of a first inductor, and is connected between the switches S55, S58, the inductor L52, and the capacitor C51. Specifically, one end of the inductor L51 is connected to the capacitor C51, and the other end of the inductor L51 is connected to the switches S55, S58, and the inductor L52.

[0230] The inductor L52 is an example of a second inductor, and is connected between the switches S56 and S59 and the inductor L51. Specifically, one end of the inductor L52 is connected to the switches S56 and S59, and the other end of the inductor L52 is connected to the inductor L51.

[0231] The capacitor C51 is an example of a first capacitor, and is connected between the inductor L51 and the ground line. Specifically, one end of the capacitor C51 is connected to the inductor L51, and the other end of the capacitor C51 is connected to the ground line.

[0232] Switches S55 and S56 are examples of the first switch and the second switch, respectively, and are connected in parallel between the voltage supply path P41 and the filter circuit 40B. Specifically, one end of the switch S55 is connected to the switch S57 and the external connection terminal 141, and the other end of the switch S55 is connected to the inductor L51. One end of the switch S56 is connected to the switch S57 and the external connection terminal 141, and the other end of the switch S56 is connected to the inductor L52.

[0233] The switch S57 is an example of a third switch and is connected in series to the voltage supply path P41. Specifically, one end of the switch S57 is connected to the output switch circuit 30, and the other end of the switch S57 is connected to the external connection terminal 141. In addition, the switch S57 may not be included in the tracker circuit 1B.

[0234] Switches S58 and S59 are examples of a fourth switch and a fifth switch, respectively, and are connected in parallel between the voltage supply path P42 and the filter circuit 40B. Specifically, one end of the switch S58 is connected to the switch S5A and the external connection terminal 142, and the other end of the switch S58 is connected to the inductor L51. One end of the switch S59 is connected to the switch S5A and the external connection terminal 142, and the other end of the switch S59 is connected to the inductor L52.

[0235] The switch S5A is an example of a sixth switch and is connected in series to the voltage supply path P42. Specifically, one end of the switch S5A is connected to the output switch circuit 30, and the other end of the switch S5A is connected to the external connection terminal 142. In addition, the switch S5A may not be included in the tracker circuit 1B.

[0236] In the switches S55 to S5A connected in this way, on / off is switched based on the control signal S4. Specifically, on / off of the switches S55 to S5A is controlled as follows.

[0237] (1) Amplifying the high frequency signal RF through the power amplifier 2A A , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2B B RF C In the case of high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is greater than the first threshold width, the switch S57 is closed, and the switches S55, S56, and S58 to S5A are opened. Thus, the inductors L51 and L52 and the capacitor C51 are disconnected from the voltage supply path P41. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2A via the external connection terminal 141. T1 , but the filter circuit 40B does not function as a band-stop filter for the voltage supply path P41.

[0238] (2) Amplifying the high frequency signal RF through the power amplifier 2A A , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2B B RF C In the case of high frequency signal RF AIf the channel bandwidth is greater than the second threshold width and less than the first threshold width, the switches S55 and S57 are closed, and the switches S56 and S58 to S5A are opened. As a result, the inductor L51 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P41 in a shunt manner. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2A via the external connection terminal 141. T1 The filter circuit 40B functions as a first band-stop filter having a first stopband depending on the first threshold width on the voltage supply path P41. For example, when the first threshold width is 75 MHz, a stopband including a frequency (75 MHz) obtained by multiplying the value of the first threshold width (75 MHz) by a predetermined coefficient (1.5) is realized as the first stopband.

[0239] (3) Amplifying the high frequency signal RF through the power amplifier 2A A , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2B B And RF C In the case of high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is less than the second threshold width, the switches S56 and S57 are closed, and the switches S55 and S58 to S5A are opened. As a result, the inductors L51 and L52 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P41 in a shunt manner. At this time, the power amplifier 2A is supplied with a plurality of discrete voltages V via the external connection terminal 141. T1 The filter circuit 40B functions as a second band-stop filter having a second stopband depending on the second threshold width on the voltage supply path P41. For example, when the second threshold width is 20 MHz, a stopband including a frequency (30 MHz) obtained by multiplying the value of the second threshold width (20 MHz) by a predetermined coefficient (1.5) is realized as the second stopband.

[0240] (4) The high frequency signal RF is amplified by the power amplifier 2B. B or RF C , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2A A In the case of high frequency signal RF B or RF C If the channel bandwidth is greater than the first threshold width, the switch S5A is closed and the switches S55 to S59 are opened. Thus, the inductors L51 and L52 and the capacitor C51 are disconnected from the voltage supply path P42. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2B via the external connection terminal 142. T2 , but the filter circuit 40B does not function as a band-stop filter for the voltage supply path P42.

[0241] (5) The high frequency signal RF is amplified by the power amplifier 2B.B or RF C , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2A A In the case of high frequency signal RF B or RF C If the channel bandwidth is greater than the second threshold width and less than the first threshold width, the switches S58 and S5A are closed, and the switches S55 to S57 and S59 are opened. As a result, the inductor L51 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P42 in a shunt manner. At this time, the power amplifier 2B is supplied with a plurality of discrete voltages V via the external connection terminal 142. T2 The filter circuit 40B functions as a first band-stop filter having a first stop band on the voltage supply path P42.

[0242] (6) The high frequency signal RF is amplified by the power amplifier 2B. B or RF C , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2A A In the case of high frequency signal RF B or RF C If the channel bandwidth is less than the second threshold width, the switches S59 and S5A are closed, and the switches S55 to S58 are opened. As a result, the inductors L51 and L52 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P42 in a shunt manner. At this time, the power amplifier 2B is supplied with a plurality of discrete voltages V via the external connection terminal 142. T2 The filter circuit 40B functions as a second band-stop filter having a second stop band on the voltage supply path P42.

[0243] As the first threshold width and the second threshold width used in the control of the switches S55 to S5A, values ​​predetermined by experiments and / or experience can be used. As the first threshold width, a frequency width wider than the second threshold width (e.g., 100 MHz) is used, and as the second threshold width, a frequency width narrower than the first threshold width (e.g., 50 MHz) is used.

[0244] By the switch control as described above, the filter circuit 40B functions as a variable band-stop filter whose stop band changes according to the channel bandwidth.

[0245] In addition, the values ​​of the first threshold width, the second threshold width, and the predetermined coefficient are merely examples, and are not limited to the above-described values.

[0246] [2.2 Effects, etc.]

[0247] As described above, the tracker circuit 1B of this variant may also include: switches S55 and S56, connected in parallel between the voltage supply path P41 and the filter circuit 40B; switch S57, connected between the output switch circuit 30 and the power amplifier 2A (external connection terminal 141); switches S58 and S59, connected in parallel between the voltage supply path P42 and the filter circuit 40B; and switch S5A, connected between the output switch circuit 30 and the power amplifier 2B (external connection terminal 142). The filter circuit 40B may also include a series connection. The inductor L51 and L52 and the capacitor C51 may be connected. One end of the switch S55 and one end of the switch S56 may be connected to the voltage supply path P41. One end of the switch S58 and one end of the switch S59 may be connected to the voltage supply path P42. The other end of the switch S55 and the other end of the switch S58 may be connected to one end of the inductor L51 and one end of the inductor L52. The other end of the switch S56 and the other end of the switch S59 may be connected to the other end of the inductor L52. The capacitor C51 may be connected between the other end of the inductor L51 and the ground.

[0248] According to this, the connection and non-connection of the filter circuit 40B with the voltage supply paths P41 and P42 can be switched by switches S55 to S5A. In addition, in the connection of the filter circuit 40B with the voltage supply paths P41 and P42, the shunt connection of the inductors L51 and L52 and the capacitor C51 and the shunt connection of the inductor L51 and the capacitor C51 can be switched. Therefore, the stop band of the filter circuit 40B can be changed, and a stop band suitable for suppressing IMD in the power amplifiers 2A and 2B can be selected. As a result, the spurious emission in the power amplifiers 2A and 2B can be effectively reduced.

[0249] For example, in the tracker circuit 1B of this modified example, the high frequency signal RF may be amplified by the power amplifier 2A. A In the case of (i) if the high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is above the first threshold width, the switch S57 is closed, and the switches S55, S56 and S58 to S5A are opened. (ii) If the high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is greater than the second threshold width and less than the first threshold width, then the switches S55 and S57 are closed, and the switches S56 and S58 to S5A are opened. (iii) If the high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is less than the second threshold width, the switches S56 and S57 are closed, and the switches S55 and S58 to S5A are opened, and the high frequency signal RF can also be amplified by the power amplifier 2B. B or RFC In the case of (i) if the high frequency signal RF B or RF C If the channel bandwidth is above the first threshold width, the switch S5A is closed, and the switches S55 to S59 are opened. (ii) If the high frequency signal RF B or RF C If the channel bandwidth is greater than the second threshold width and less than the first threshold width, then the switches S58 and S5A are closed, and the switches S55 to S57 and S59 are opened. (iii) If the high frequency signal RF B or RF C If the channel bandwidth is less than the second threshold width, switches S59 and S5A are closed, and switches S55 to S58 are opened.

[0250] Accordingly, in the high frequency signal RF A When the channel bandwidth is narrow, the filter circuit 40B can be connected to the voltage supply path P41 by shunt, and the high-frequency signal RF B or RF C When the channel bandwidth is narrow, the filter circuit 40B can be connected to the voltage supply path P42. In this way, the noise of the frequency generated by the IMD that affects the ACP can be reduced, and the spurious emission (that is, ACP) in the power amplifiers 2A and 2B can be effectively reduced. In addition, the high-frequency signal RF A ~RF C The channel bandwidth of the switching inductor L52 is connected and disconnected. In this way, a stop band corresponding to the channel bandwidth can be achieved, and the spurious emission in the power amplifiers 2A and 2B can be reduced more effectively. On the other hand, in the case of high frequency signal RF A RF B When the channel bandwidth is wide, the filter circuit 40B can be cut off from the voltage supply paths P41 and P42. Thus, the degradation of the responsiveness of the voltage supply paths P41 and P42 can be suppressed, and the degradation of the plurality of discrete voltages on the voltage supply paths P41 and P42 can be effectively suppressed.

[0251] (Variation 2 of Implementation Example 1)

[0252] Next, a variation 2 of embodiment 1 is described. In this variation, the connection between the filter circuit and the voltage supply path and the number of switches used for the connection are mainly different from those of variation 1 of embodiment 1. Hereinafter, the tracker circuit of this variation is described with reference to the accompanying drawings, centering on the points that are different from variation 1.

[0253] [3.1 Circuit structure of tracker circuit 1C]

[0254] Reference Figure 2 as well as Fig.10 The circuit configuration of a tracker circuit 1C according to this modification example will be described. Fig.10 FIG. 1 is a partial circuit diagram of a tracker circuit 1C according to this variation.

[0255] also, Figure 2 as well as Fig.10 The circuit configuration is exemplified, and the tracker circuit 1C and the filter circuit 40B can be implemented using any of a variety of circuit implementations and circuit technologies. Therefore, the description of the tracker circuit 1C and the filter circuit 40B provided below should not be interpreted in a limiting sense.

[0256] like Figure 2 as well as Fig.10 As shown, the tracker circuit 1C includes a pre-regulator circuit 10, a switched capacitor circuit 20, an output switch circuit 30, a filter circuit 40B, a DC power supply 50, a digital control circuit 60, external connection terminals 141 and 142, and switches S55 and S56.

[0257] Filter circuit 40B is an example of a first filter circuit, configured to be connected to voltage supply paths P41 and P42 in shunt. Filter circuit 40B can attenuate the noise component of the signal (multiple discrete voltages) transmitted on voltage supply paths P41 and P42. Specifically, filter circuit 40B is connected to voltage supply path P41 in shunt via switch S55 or S56. In other words, filter circuit 40B is connected between voltage supply path P41 and ground via switch S55 or S56. And, filter circuit 40B is connected to voltage supply path P42 in shunt via switch S55 or S56. In other words, filter circuit 40B is connected between voltage supply path P42 and ground via switch S55 or S56.

[0258] like Fig.10 As shown, the filter circuit 40B includes inductors L51 and L52 connected in series, and a capacitor C51.

[0259] The inductor L51 is an example of a first inductor, and is connected between the switch S55 and the inductor L52 and the capacitor C51. Specifically, one end of the inductor L51 is connected to the switch S55 and the inductor L52, and the other end of the inductor L51 is connected to the capacitor C51.

[0260] Inductor L52 is an example of a second inductor, and is connected between switch S55 and external connection terminal 142 and between switch S56 and inductor L51. Specifically, one end of inductor L52 is connected to switch S55 and inductor L51, and the other end of inductor L52 is connected to switch S56 and external connection terminal 142.

[0261] In addition, in this modification, there is a case where the inductor L52 is connected in series with the voltage supply path P42. In other words, a larger current flows through the inductor L52 than the inductor L51. Therefore, the rated current of the inductor L52 is larger than the rated current of the inductor L51. Therefore, the size of the inductor L52 is larger than the size of the inductor L51.

[0262] The rated current is the current value above which the quality cannot be guaranteed when a DC current flows. Here, the rated current of an inductor is the so-called DC superimposition rated current, which can be determined by measuring the current value when the inductance value decreases by 30% from the initial inductance value without superimposition current.

[0263] The capacitor C51 is an example of a first capacitor, and is connected between the inductor L51 and the ground line. Specifically, one end of the capacitor C51 is connected to the inductor L51, and the other end of the capacitor C51 is connected to the ground line.

[0264] The switches S55 and S56 are examples of the first switch and the second switch, respectively, and are connected in parallel between the voltage supply path P41 and the filter circuit 40B. Specifically, one end of the switch S55 is connected to the voltage supply path P41, and the other end of the switch S55 is connected to the inductors L51 and L52. One end of the switch S56 is connected to the voltage supply path P41, and the other end of the switch S56 is connected to the inductor L52 and the external connection terminal 142.

[0265] In the switches S55 and S56 connected in this way, on / off is switched based on the control signal S4. Specifically, on / off of the switches S55 and S56 is controlled as follows.

[0266] (1) Amplifying the high frequency signal RF through the power amplifier 2A A , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2B B And RF C In the case of high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is greater than the first threshold width, switches S55 and S56 are opened. As a result, inductors L51 and L52 and capacitor C51 are disconnected from voltage supply path P41. At this time, multiple discrete voltages V are supplied to power amplifier 2A via external connection terminal 141. T1, but the filter circuit 40B does not function as a band-stop filter for the voltage supply path P41.

[0267] (2) Amplifying the high frequency signal RF through the power amplifier 2A A , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2B B And RF C In the case of high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is greater than the second threshold width and less than the first threshold width, the switch S55 is closed and the switch S56 is opened. As a result, the inductor L51 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P41 in a shunt manner. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2A via the external connection terminal 141. T1 The filter circuit 40B functions as a first band-stop filter having a first stopband depending on the first threshold width on the voltage supply path P41. For example, when the first threshold width is 50 MHz, a stopband including a frequency (75 MHz) obtained by multiplying the value of the first threshold width (50 MHz) by a predetermined coefficient (1.5) is realized as the first stopband.

[0268] (3) Amplifying the high frequency signal RF through the power amplifier 2A A , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2B B And RF C In the case of high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is less than the second threshold width, the switch S55 is opened and the switch S56 is closed. As a result, the inductors L51 and L52 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P41 in a shunt manner. At this time, the power amplifier 2A is supplied with a plurality of discrete voltages V via the external connection terminal 141. T1 The filter circuit 40B functions as a second band-stop filter having a second stopband depending on the second threshold width on the voltage supply path P41. For example, when the second threshold width is 20 MHz, a stopband including a frequency (30 MHz) obtained by multiplying the value of the second threshold width (20 MHz) by a predetermined coefficient (1.5) is realized as the second stopband.

[0269] (4) The high frequency signal RF is amplified by the power amplifier 2B. B , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2A A In the case of high frequency signal RF BIf the channel bandwidth is greater than the second threshold width, the switch S55 is closed and the switch S56 is opened. As a result, the inductor L51 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P42 in a shunt manner, and the inductor L52 is connected in series to the voltage supply path P42. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2B via the external connection terminal 142. T2 The filter circuit 40B functions as a third band-stop filter having a third stop band on the voltage supply path P42.

[0270] (5) The high frequency signal RF is amplified by the power amplifier 2B. B , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2A A In the case of high frequency signal RF B If the channel bandwidth is less than the second threshold width, the switch S55 is opened and the switch S56 is closed. As a result, the inductors L51 and L52 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P42 in a shunt manner. At this time, the power amplifier 2B is supplied with a plurality of discrete voltages V via the external connection terminal 142. T2 The filter circuit 40B functions as a second band-stop filter having a second stop band on the voltage supply path P42.

[0271] (6) The high frequency signal RF is amplified by the power amplifier 2B. C , and the high frequency signal RF is not amplified by the power amplifier 2A A In the case of , the switch S55 is closed, and the switch S56 is opened. As a result, the inductor L51 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P42 in a shunt manner, and the inductor L52 is connected in series to the voltage supply path P42. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2B via the external connection terminal 142. T2 The filter circuit 40B functions as a third band-stop filter having a third stop band on the voltage supply path P42.

[0272] As the first threshold width and the second threshold width used for controlling the switches S55 and S56 , the same threshold widths as those in the first modification of the first embodiment can be used.

[0273] By the switch control as described above, the filter circuit 40B functions as a variable band-stop filter whose stop band changes according to the channel bandwidth.

[0274] [3.2 Effects, etc.]

[0275] As described above, the tracker circuit 1C of this variant may also include: switches S55 and S56, which are connected in parallel between the voltage supply path P41 and the filter circuit 40B, and the filter circuit 40B may include inductors L51 and L52 and a capacitor C51 connected in series. One end of the switch S55 and one end of the switch S56 may be connected to the first voltage supply path, and the other end of the switch S55 may be connected to one end of the inductor L51 and one end of the inductor L52. The other end of the switch S56 may be connected to the other end of the inductor L52 and the second power amplifier (external connection terminal 142), and the capacitor C51 may be connected between the other end of the inductor L51 and the ground.

[0276] Accordingly, the connection between the inductor L52 and the voltage supply paths P41 and P42 can be switched by the switches S55 and S56, and the stop band of the filter circuit 40B can be changed. In particular, the voltage supply path P41 can be switched by the two switches S55 and S56 to cut off the inductors L51, L52 and capacitor C51 from the voltage supply path P41, to shunt the inductors L51 and capacitor C51 to the voltage supply path P41, and to shunt the inductors L51, L52 and capacitor C51 to the voltage supply path P41. In addition, the voltage supply path P42 can be switched by the two switches S55 and S56 to shunt the inductors L51 and capacitor C51 to the voltage supply path P42, and to connect the inductors L52 in series to the voltage supply path P42, and to shunt the inductors L51, L52 and capacitor C51 to the voltage supply path P42. In this way, in the filter circuit 40B, the two switches S55 and S56 can realize switching of a plurality of stop bands of the two voltage supply paths P41 and P42 .

[0277] For example, in the tracker circuit 1C of this modified example, the high frequency signal RF may be amplified by the power amplifier 2A. A In the case of (i) if the high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is above the first threshold width, switches S55 and S56 are turned on. (ii) If the high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth of the high frequency signal RF is greater than the second threshold width and less than the first threshold width, the switch S55 is closed and the switch S56 is opened. (iii) A If the channel bandwidth is less than the second threshold width, the switch S55 is opened, and the switch S56 is closed, and the high frequency signal RF can also be amplified by the power amplifier 2B. B In the case of (i) if the high frequency signal RF BIf the channel bandwidth of the high frequency signal RF is above the second threshold width, the switch S55 is closed and the switch S56 is opened. (ii) B If the channel bandwidth is less than the second threshold width, the switch S55 is opened, and the switch S56 is closed.

[0278] Thus, the switches S55 and S56 can be switched on / off according to the frequency band and channel bandwidth of the high-frequency signal, and a balance can be achieved between reducing noise on the voltage supply paths P41 and P42 and suppressing degradation of a plurality of discrete voltages.

[0279] For example, in the tracker circuit 1C of the present modification, the frequency band A may be included in the range of 3300 to 5000 MHz, and the frequency bands B and C may be included in the range of 1427 to 2690 MHz.

[0280] Accordingly, the wider and higher-frequency channel bandwidth that the tracker circuit 1C can utilize, the more types of stopbands can be realized according to the channel bandwidth. Therefore, the stopband can be controlled more finely according to the channel bandwidth, and the spurious emissions in the power amplifiers 2A and 2B can be effectively reduced.

[0281] For example, in the tracker circuit 1C of the present modification, the rated current of the inductor L52 may be larger than the rated current of the inductor L51.

[0282] Thus, the rated current of the inductor L52 that can be connected in series to the voltage supply path P42 can be made higher than the rated current of the inductor L51 that is not connected in series to the voltage supply paths P41 and P42 , thereby contributing to the stable operation of the tracker circuit 1C.

[0283] (Implementation Method 2)

[0284] Next, Embodiment 2 is described. The tracker circuit of this embodiment differs from the tracker circuit of Embodiment 1 and its variants mainly in that it can supply multiple discrete voltages to three different power amplifiers. Hereinafter, the tracker circuit of this embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, with a focus on the differences from Variation 2 of Embodiment 1.

[0285] [4.1 Circuit Structure of Communication Device 7D]

[0286] First, refer to Fig.11 The communication device 7D according to this embodiment will be described. Fig.11 It is a circuit configuration diagram of a communication device 7D according to this embodiment.

[0287] also, Fig.11The circuit configuration is an example, and the communication device 7D can be implemented using any of a variety of circuit implementations and circuit technologies. Therefore, the description of the communication device 7D provided below should not be interpreted in a limiting sense.

[0288] like Fig.11 As shown, the communication device 7D includes a tracker circuit 1D, power amplifiers 2A, 2B, and 2D, filters 3A to 3D, switches 4A to 4C, an RFIC 5, and antennas 6A, 6B, and 6D.

[0289] The tracker circuit 1D can supply a plurality of discrete voltages V in a tracking mode to the power amplifiers 2A and 2B respectively. T1 and V T2 , and can supply a plurality of discrete voltages V based on the tracking mode to the power amplifier 2D T3 .like Fig.11 As shown, the tracker circuit 1D includes a pre-regulator circuit 10, a switched capacitor circuit 20, an output switch circuit 30, filter circuits 40B and 40D, a DC power supply 50, a digital control circuit 60, external connection terminals 141 to 143, switches S55, S56, and S5B (see Fig.12 ).

[0290] The external connection terminal 143 is an example of a third external connection terminal, and is connected to the power amplifier 2D outside the tracker circuit 1D, and is connected to the output switch circuit 30 via the voltage supply path P43 inside the tracker circuit 1D.

[0291] The voltage supply path P43 is an example of a third voltage supply path, and is a part of the path connecting the output switch circuit 30 and the power amplifier 2D. Here, the voltage supply path P43 is a path connecting the output switch circuit 30 and the external connection terminal 143, and partially overlaps with the voltage supply paths P41 and P42. In addition, the voltage supply path P43 may not overlap with the voltage supply paths P41 and P42 at all.

[0292] The power amplifier 2D is an example of a third power amplifier, and is connected between the RFIC5 and the filter 3D. The power amplifier 2D is connected to the tracker circuit 1D. The power amplifier 2D can use a plurality of discrete voltages V received from the tracker circuit 1D. T3 , amplifies the high frequency signal RF of band D received from RFIC5 D (An example of the third high frequency signal).

[0293] The filter 3D is connected between the power amplifier 2D and the antenna 6D. The filter 3D is a bandpass filter having a passband including a transmission band of the frequency band D.

[0294] Band D is a frequency band used for a communication system constructed using RAT, and is predefined by a standardization organization or the like. Band D is an example of a third frequency band, and in this embodiment, is an FDD frequency band. In this embodiment, band D is included in the low frequency group (698-960 MHz). In addition, band D is not limited to the FDD frequency band, nor is it limited to the frequency band included in the low frequency group.

[0295] The antenna 6D outputs a transmission signal in the frequency band D input from the power amplifier 2D via the filter 3D. The antenna 6D may not be included in the communication device 7D.

[0296] [4.2 Circuit structure of tracker circuit 1D]

[0297] Next, refer to Fig.11 as well as Fig.12 The circuit structure of the tracker circuit 1D will be described. Fig.12 1 is a partial circuit configuration diagram of a tracker circuit 1D according to the present embodiment.

[0298] also, Fig.12 The circuit configuration is exemplified, and the tracker circuit 1D and the filter circuit 40D can be implemented using any of a variety of circuit implementations and circuit technologies. Therefore, the description of the tracker circuit 1D and the filter circuit 40D provided below should not be interpreted in a limiting sense.

[0299] The filter circuit 40D is an example of a second filter circuit, and is configured to be connected to the voltage supply paths P41 to P43 in a shunt manner. The filter circuit 40D can attenuate the noise component of the signal (a plurality of discrete voltages) transmitted on the voltage supply paths P41 to P43. Specifically, Fig.12 As shown, the filter circuit 40D includes an inductor L53 and a capacitor C52 connected in series.

[0300] The inductor L53 is an example of a third inductor, and is connected between the voltage supply path P43 and the capacitor C52. Specifically, one end of the inductor L53 is connected to the switch S5B and the external connection terminal 143, and the other end of the inductor L53 is connected to the capacitor C52.

[0301] The capacitor C52 is an example of a second capacitor, and is connected between the inductor L53 and the ground line. Specifically, one end of the capacitor C52 is connected to the inductor L53, and the other end of the capacitor C52 is connected to the ground line.

[0302] The switch S5B is an example of a third switch, and is connected between the output switch circuit 30 and the external connection terminal 143, and is connected between the voltage supply path P42 and the inductor L53. Specifically, one end of the switch S5B is connected to the inductor L52 and the external connection terminal 142, and the other end of the switch S5B is connected to the inductor L53 and the external connection terminal 143.

[0303] In the switch S5B connected in this way, on / off is switched based on the control signal S4. Specifically, on / off of the switches S55, S56, and S5B are controlled as follows.

[0304] (1) Amplifying the high frequency signal RF through the power amplifier 2A A , and without amplifying the high frequency signal by power amplifiers 2B and 2D, if the high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is greater than the first threshold width, switches S55, S56, and S5B are opened. As a result, inductors L51 to L53 and capacitors C51 and C52 are disconnected from voltage supply path P41. At this time, multiple discrete voltages V are supplied to power amplifier 2A via external connection terminal 141. T1 However, the filter circuits 40B and 40D do not function as band-stop filters for the voltage supply path P41.

[0305] (2) Amplifying the high frequency signal RF through the power amplifier 2A A , and without amplifying the high frequency signal by power amplifiers 2B and 2D, if the high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is greater than the second threshold width and less than the first threshold width, the switch S55 is closed, and the switches S56 and S5B are opened. As a result, the inductor L51 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P41 in a shunt manner. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2A via the external connection terminal 141. T1 The filter circuit 40B functions as a first band-stop filter having a first stop band depending on a first threshold width on the voltage supply path P41.

[0306] (3) Amplifying the high frequency signal RF through the power amplifier 2A A , and without amplifying the high frequency signal by power amplifiers 2B and 2D, if the high frequency signal RF AIf the channel bandwidth is less than the second threshold width, the switch S55 is opened, and the switches S56 and S5B are closed. As a result, the inductors L51 and L52 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P41 in a shunt manner, and the inductor L53 and the capacitor C52 are also connected to the voltage supply path P41 in a shunt manner. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2A via the external connection terminal 141. T1 The filter circuits 40B and 40D function as second band-stop filters having a second stop band depending on the second threshold width on the voltage supply path P41.

[0307] (4) The high frequency signal RF is amplified by the power amplifier 2B. B , and without amplifying the high frequency signal by power amplifiers 2A and 2D, if the high frequency signal RF B If the channel bandwidth is greater than the second threshold width, the switch S55 is closed, and the switches S56 and S5B are opened. As a result, the inductor L51 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P42 in a shunt manner, and the inductor L52 is connected in series to the voltage supply path P42. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2B via the external connection terminal 142. T2 The filter circuit 40B functions as a third band-stop filter having a third stop band on the voltage supply path P42.

[0308] (5) The high frequency signal RF is amplified by the power amplifier 2B. B , and without amplifying the high frequency signal by power amplifiers 2A and 2D, if the high frequency signal RF B If the channel bandwidth is less than the second threshold width, the switch S55 is opened, and the switches S56 and S5B are closed. As a result, the inductors L51 and L52 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P42 in a shunt manner, and the inductor L53 and the capacitor C52 are also connected to the voltage supply path P42 in a shunt manner. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2B via the external connection terminal 142. T2 The filter circuits 40B and 40D function as a second band-stop filter having a second stop band on the voltage supply path P42.

[0309] (6) The high frequency signal RF is amplified by the power amplifier 2B. C, and when the high frequency signal is not amplified by the power amplifiers 2A and 2D, the switch S55 is closed, and the switches S56 and S5B are opened. As a result, the inductor L51 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P42 in a shunt manner, and the inductor L52 is connected in series to the voltage supply path P42. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2B via the external connection terminal 142. T2 The filter circuit 40B functions as a third band-stop filter having a third stop band on the voltage supply path P42.

[0310] (7) Amplifying the high frequency signal RF through the power amplifier 2D D , and when the high frequency signal is not amplified by the power amplifiers 2A and 2B, the switch S55 is opened, and the switches S56 and S5B are closed. As a result, the inductors L51 and L52 and the capacitor C51 are connected to the voltage supply path P43 in a shunt manner, and the inductor L53 and the capacitor C52 are also connected to the voltage supply path P43 in a shunt manner. At this time, a plurality of discrete voltages V are supplied to the power amplifier 2D via the external connection terminal 143. T3 The filter circuits 40B and 40D function as a second band-stop filter having a second stop band on the voltage supply path P43.

[0311] As the first threshold width and the second threshold width used for controlling the switches S55 , S56 , and S5B, the same threshold widths as those in the first modification of the first embodiment can be used.

[0312] By the switch control as described above, the filter circuits 40B and 40D function as variable band rejection filters whose rejection bands are changed according to the channel bandwidth.

[0313] [4.3 Effects, etc.]

[0314] As described above, in the tracker circuit 1D of the present embodiment, the output switch circuit 30 may be configured to further selectively output at least one of the plurality of discrete voltages to the power amplifier 2D, and the power amplifier 2D may be configured to amplify the high frequency signal RF in the frequency band D. DThe tracker circuit 1D may also include: a voltage supply path P43, connected between the output switch circuit 30 and the power amplifier 2D; a filter circuit 40D, which can be connected to the voltage supply paths P41, P42 and P43 in shunt; switches S55 and S56, connected in parallel between the voltage supply path P41 and the filter circuit 40B; and a switch S5B, connected between the voltage supply path P42 and the filter circuit 40D. The filter circuit 40B may include inductors L51 and L52 connected in series and capacitors C51. The filter circuit 40D may include inductors L53 and capacitors C52 connected in series. The switch S55 may also be connected in parallel. One end and one end of the switch S56 are connected to the voltage supply path P41, the other end of the switch S55 can be connected to one end of the inductor L51 and one end of the inductor L52, the other end of the switch S56 can be connected to the other end of the inductor L52 and the power amplifier 2B, the capacitor C51 can be connected between the other end of the inductor L51 and the ground, one end of the switch S5B can be connected to the other end of the inductor L52 in the voltage supply path P42 and the power amplifier 2B, the other end of the switch S5B can be connected to one end of the inductor L53 and the power amplifier 2D, and the capacitor C52 can be connected between the other end of the inductor L53 and the ground.

[0315] In other words, the tracker circuit 1D of this embodiment may further include: an external connection terminal 143 connected to the power amplifier 2D; a voltage supply path P43 connected between the output switch circuit 30 and the external connection terminal 143; a filter circuit 40D connected between the voltage supply path P41 and the ground, and between the voltage supply path P42 and the ground, and between the voltage supply path P43 and the ground; switches S55 and S56 connected in parallel between the voltage supply path P41 and the filter circuit 40B; and a switch S5B connected between the voltage supply path P42 and the filter circuit 40D. The filter circuit 40B may include inductors L51 and L52 and a capacitor C51 connected in series. The filter circuit 40D may also include inductors L51 and L52 and a capacitor C51 connected in series. 0D includes an inductor L53 and a capacitor C52 connected in series. One end of a switch S55 and one end of a switch S56 may be connected to a voltage supply path P41, the other end of the switch S55 may be connected to one end of the inductor L51 and one end of the inductor L52, the other end of the switch S56 may be connected to the other end of the inductor L52 and an external connection terminal 142, the capacitor C51 may be connected between the other end of the inductor L51 and a ground line, one end of a switch S5B may be connected to the other end of the inductor L52 in the voltage supply path P42 and an external connection terminal 142, the other end of the switch S5B may be connected to one end of the inductor L53 and an external connection terminal 143, or the capacitor C52 may be connected between the other end of the inductor L53 and a ground line.

[0316] According to this, the connection of part or all of the inductors L51 to L53 and the capacitors C51 and C52 to the voltage supply paths P41 to P43 can be switched by the switches S55 to S5B, and the stop band of the filter circuit 40D can be changed. In particular, the voltage supply path P41 can be switched by the three switches S55 to S5B to cut off the inductors L51 to L53 and the capacitors C51 and C52 from the voltage supply path P41, to connect the inductors L51 and the capacitors C51 to the voltage supply path P41 in a shunt manner, and to connect the inductors L51 to L53 and the capacitors C51 and C52 to the voltage supply path P41 in a shunt manner. In addition, the voltage supply path P42 can be switched by three switches S55 to S5B to connect the inductor L51 and the capacitor C51 to the voltage supply path P42 in a shunt manner, and the inductor L52 can be connected in series to the voltage supply path P42, and the inductors L51 to L53 and the capacitors C51 and C52 can be connected to the voltage supply path P42 in a shunt manner. In this way, in the filter circuit 40D, the switching of multiple stop bands of the three voltage supply paths P41 to P43 can be realized by the three switches S55 to S5B.

[0317] For example, in the tracker circuit 1D of the present embodiment, the high frequency signal RF may be amplified by the power amplifier 2A. A In the case of (i) if the high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is above the first threshold width, switches S55, S56 and S5B are turned on. (ii) If the high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is greater than the second threshold width and less than the first threshold width, then the switch S55 is closed, and the switches S56 and S5B are opened. (iii) If the high frequency signal RF A If the channel bandwidth is less than the second threshold width, the switch S55 is opened, and the switches S56 and S5B are closed, and the high-frequency signal RF can also be amplified by the power amplifier 2B. B In the case of (i) if the high frequency signal RF B If the channel bandwidth is above the second threshold width, the switch S55 is closed, and the switches S56 and S5B are opened. (ii) If the high frequency signal RF B If the channel bandwidth is less than the second threshold width, the switch S55 is opened, and the switches S56 and S5B are closed, and the high frequency signal RF can also be amplified by the power amplifier 2D. D In this case, the switch S55 is opened, and the switches S56 and S5B are closed.

[0318] Thus, the switches S55, S56 and S5B can be switched on / off according to the frequency band and channel bandwidth of the high-frequency signal, and a balance can be achieved between reducing noise on the voltage supply paths P41 to P43 and suppressing degradation of a plurality of discrete voltages.

[0319] For example, in the tracker circuit 1D of this embodiment, the frequency band A may be included in the range of 3300 to 5000 MHz, the frequency bands B and C may be included in the range of 1427 to 2690 MHz, and the frequency band D may be included in the range of 698 to 960 MHz.

[0320] Accordingly, the wider and higher frequency the channel bandwidth that the filter circuit 40D can utilize, the more types of stopbands can be realized according to the channel bandwidth. Therefore, the stopband can be controlled more finely according to the channel bandwidth, and the spurious emissions in the power amplifiers 2A, 2B, and 2D can be effectively reduced.

[0321] (Other Embodiments)

[0322] The tracker circuit and tracking method of the present invention are described above based on the embodiments, but the tracker circuit and tracking method of the present invention are not limited to the above embodiments. Other embodiments implemented by combining any constituent elements in the above embodiments, modified examples obtained by implementing various modifications that can be conceived by those skilled in the art to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention, and various devices in which the above tracker circuit is built-in are also included in the present invention.

[0323] For example, in the circuit configurations of the various circuits of the above-described embodiments, other circuit elements and wirings may be inserted between the paths connecting the various circuit elements and signal paths disclosed in the drawings. For example, an impedance matching circuit may be inserted between the power amplifier 2A and the filter 3A.

[0324] In addition, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, a plurality of discrete voltages are supplied from the switched capacitor circuit to the output switch circuit, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a plurality of voltages may be supplied from a plurality of DCDC converters, respectively. In addition, when the voltage levels of the plurality of discrete voltages are equally spaced, it is preferred to use a switched capacitor circuit, which is effective for miniaturization of the tracker module.

[0325] In addition, in each of the above embodiments, four discrete voltages are supplied to the power amplifier, but the number of discrete voltages is not limited to 4. For example, as long as the plurality of discrete voltages includes at least a voltage corresponding to the maximum output power and a voltage corresponding to the output power with the highest generation frequency, PAE can be improved.

[0326] In the first embodiment, the plurality of circuit components of the tracker circuit 1A are arranged on the main surface 90a of the module substrate 90, but they may be arranged on both the main surfaces 90a and 90b. In this case, for example, the integrated circuit 80 may be arranged on the main surface 90b.

[0327] In addition, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the switch connecting the filter circuit to the voltage supply path is controlled to be turned on / off based on the channel bandwidth of the high-frequency signal, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, in the case where a power amplifier can amplify high-frequency signals of multiple frequency bands, the switch can be controlled to be turned on / off based on the frequency band of the high-frequency signal amplified by the power amplifier.

[0328] In addition, in each of the above embodiments, the tracker circuit includes one output switch circuit 30, but may also include a plurality of output switch circuits. Fig.13 As shown, the tracker circuit may be configured to include two output switch circuits and to supply a plurality of discrete voltages to six power amplifiers via six external connection terminals.

[0329] Fig.13FIG. 1 is a partial circuit diagram of a tracker circuit according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig.13 In FIG. 1 , the tracker circuit includes output switch circuits 31 and 32 , filter circuits 41B, 41D, 42B, and 42D, external connection terminals 141 to 146 , switches S55 , S56 , S5B, and S5C to S5G.

[0330] The external connection terminals 144 to 146 are connected to different power amplifiers (not shown). The external connection terminals 144 to 146 are used to supply a plurality of discrete voltages V T4 ~V T6 Terminals.

[0331] The output switch circuits 31 and 32 each have the same structure as the output switch circuit 30 .

[0332] The filter circuits 41B and 42B are similar to the filter circuit 40B, and include inductors L51 and L52 , respectively, and a capacitor C51 .

[0333] The filter circuits 41D and 42D are similar to the filter circuit 40D, and each includes an inductor L53 and a capacitor C52.

[0334] The switch S5C is connected between the voltage supply path P42 and the external connection terminal 146. By closing the switch S5C, the output switch circuit 31 can also output a plurality of discrete voltages to the external connection terminal 146. In other words, the output switch circuit 31 can output a plurality of discrete voltages to the external connection terminal 146 in addition to the external connection terminals 141 to 143.

[0335] The switches S5D to S5G correspond to the switches S55 , S56 , S5B, and S5C, respectively. Therefore, the output switch circuit 32 can output a plurality of discrete voltages to the external connection terminal 143 in addition to the external connection terminals 144 to 146 .

[0336] In addition, Figure 3 , Fig. 9 , Fig.10 or Fig.12 In the circuit structure of FIG. 1 , the tracker circuit 1A / 1B / 1C / 1D may further include one or more arbitrary additional filter circuits on the voltage supply path P41.

[0337] For example, in Figure 3In the circuit structure of FIG. 4 , an arbitrary additional filter circuit may be connected between the output switch circuit 30 and a node on the voltage supply path P41 to which the switch S55 is connected. For example, an arbitrary additional filter circuit may be connected between a node on the voltage supply path P41 to which the switch S55 is connected and the external connection terminal 141. These arbitrary additional filter circuits may be, for example, the same as the filter circuit 40A, and include an inductor and a capacitor.

[0338] In addition, for example, Fig. 9 , Fig.10 or Fig.12 In the circuit structure of , an arbitrary additional filter circuit may be connected between the output switch circuit 30 and a node on the voltage supply path P41 connected to the switch S55. For another example, an arbitrary additional filter circuit may be connected between a node on the voltage supply path P41 connected to the switch S55 and a node on the voltage supply path P41 connected to the switch S56. For another example, an arbitrary additional filter circuit may be connected between a node on the voltage supply path P41 connected to the switch S56 and the external connection terminal 141. These arbitrary additional filter circuits may be, for example, the same as the filter circuit 40B, including an inductor and a capacitor.

[0339] The present invention can be widely used in communication devices such as mobile phones as a tracker circuit for supplying voltage to a power amplifier.

[0340] Description of Reference Numerals

[0341] 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D…tracker circuit, 2A, 2B, 2D…power amplifier, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D…filter, 4A, 4B, 4C…switch, 5…RFIC, 6A, 6B, 6D…antenna, 7A, 7D…communication device, 10…pre-regulator circuit, 20…switched capacitor circuit, 30, 31, 32…output switch circuit, 40A, 40B, 40D, 41B, 41D, 42B, 42D…filter circuit, 50…DC power supply, 60…digital control circuit, 61…first controller, 62…second controller, 80…integrated circuit, 80a…PR switch section, 80b…SC switch section, 80c… OS switch unit, 80d…filter switch unit, 90…module substrate, 90a, 90b…main surface, 90e…ground electrode layer, 91…resin component, 92…shielding electrode layer, 100…tracker module, 110, 131, 132, 133, 134…input terminal, 111, 112, 113, 114, 130…output terminal, 115, 116…inductor connection terminal, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146…external connection terminal, 150…electrode, 601, 602, 603, 604…control terminal, P41, P42, P43, P44, P45, P46…voltage supply path.

Claims

1. A tracker circuit, wherein: An output switch circuit is provided which is configured to selectively output at least one of a plurality of discrete voltages to a first power amplifier and a second power amplifier, wherein the first power amplifier is configured to amplify a first high-frequency signal in a first frequency band, and the second power amplifier is configured to amplify a second high-frequency signal in a second frequency band, Also available: A first voltage supply path connected between the output switch circuit and the first power amplifier; A second voltage supply path is connected between the output switch circuit and the second power amplifier; and The first filter circuit can be connected to the first voltage supply path and the second voltage supply path in a bypass manner.

2. The tracker circuit according to claim 1, wherein: The tracker circuit further includes a first switch connected between the first voltage supply path and the first filter circuit. The first filter circuit includes a first inductor and a first capacitor connected in series between the first switch and a ground line.

3. The tracker circuit of claim 2, wherein: One end of the first switch is connected to the output switch circuit. The other end of the first switch is connected to the first filter circuit and the second power amplifier.

4. The tracker circuit of claim 3, wherein: When the first high frequency signal is amplified by the first power amplifier, (i) if the channel bandwidth of the first high frequency signal is greater than a first threshold width, the first switch is opened, and (ii) if the channel bandwidth of the first high frequency signal is less than the first threshold width, the first switch is closed. When the second high frequency signal is amplified by the second power amplifier, the first switch is closed.

5. The tracker circuit of claim 1 , wherein: The above tracker circuit also has: A first switch and a second switch are connected in parallel between the first voltage supply path and the first filter circuit; A third switch connected between the output switch circuit and the first power amplifier; a fourth switch and a fifth switch connected in parallel between the second voltage supply path and the first filter circuit; and a sixth switch connected between the output switch circuit and the second power amplifier, The first filter circuit comprises a first inductor, a second inductor and a first capacitor connected in series. One end of the first switch and one end of the second switch are connected to the first voltage supply path. One end of the fourth switch and one end of the fifth switch are connected to the second voltage supply path. The other end of the first switch and the other end of the fourth switch are connected to one end of the first inductor and one end of the second inductor, The other end of the second switch and the other end of the fifth switch are connected to the other end of the second inductor. The first capacitor is connected between the other end of the first inductor and the ground.

6. The tracker circuit of claim 5, wherein: When the first high-frequency signal is amplified by the first power amplifier, (i) if the channel bandwidth of the first high-frequency signal is greater than the first threshold width, the third switch is closed, and the first switch, the second switch, the fourth switch, the fifth switch, and the sixth switch are opened; (ii) if the channel bandwidth of the first high-frequency signal is greater than the second threshold width and less than the first threshold width, the first switch and the third switch are closed, and the second switch, the fourth switch, the fifth switch, and the sixth switch are opened; (iii) if the channel bandwidth of the first high-frequency signal is less than the second threshold width, the second switch and the third switch are closed, and the first switch, the fourth switch, the fifth switch, and the sixth switch are opened; When the second high-frequency signal is amplified by the second power amplifier, (i) if the channel bandwidth of the second high-frequency signal is greater than the first threshold width, the sixth switch is closed, and the first switch, the second switch, the third switch, the fourth switch and the fifth switch are opened; (ii) if the channel bandwidth of the second high-frequency signal is greater than the second threshold width and less than the first threshold width, the fourth switch and the sixth switch are closed, and the first switch, the second switch, the third switch and the fifth switch are opened; (iii) if the channel bandwidth of the second high-frequency signal is less than the second threshold width, the fifth switch and the sixth switch are closed, and the first switch, the second switch, the third switch and the fourth switch are opened.

7. The tracker circuit of claim 1 , wherein: The tracker circuit further includes a first switch and a second switch connected in parallel between the first voltage supply path and the first filter circuit. The first filter circuit comprises a first inductor, a second inductor and a first capacitor connected in series. One end of the first switch and one end of the second switch are connected to the first voltage supply path. The other end of the first switch is connected to one end of the first inductor and one end of the second inductor. The other end of the second switch is connected to the other end of the second inductor and the second power amplifier. The first capacitor is connected between the other end of the first inductor and the ground.

8. The tracker circuit of claim 7, wherein: When the first high-frequency signal is amplified by the first power amplifier, (i) if the channel bandwidth of the first high-frequency signal is greater than a first threshold width, the first switch and the second switch are opened; (ii) if the channel bandwidth of the first high-frequency signal is greater than a second threshold width and less than the first threshold width, the first switch is closed and the second switch is opened; (iii) if the channel bandwidth of the first high-frequency signal is less than the second threshold width, the first switch is opened and the second switch is closed. When the second high-frequency signal is amplified by the second power amplifier, (i) if the channel bandwidth of the second high-frequency signal is greater than the second threshold width, the first switch is closed and the second switch is opened; (ii) if the channel bandwidth of the second high-frequency signal is less than the second threshold width, the first switch is opened and the second switch is closed.

9. The tracker circuit according to claim 7 or 8, wherein: The first frequency band is within the range of 3300 to 5000 MHz. The second frequency band is included in the range of 1427 to 2690 MHz.

10. The tracker circuit of claim 1, wherein: The output switch circuit is configured to further selectively output at least one of the plurality of discrete voltages to a third power amplifier. The third power amplifier is configured to amplify a third high frequency signal in a third frequency band. The above tracker circuit also has: A third voltage supply path connected between the output switch circuit and the third power amplifier; A second filter circuit capable of being connected to the first voltage supply path, the second voltage supply path, and the third voltage supply path in a shunt manner; A first switch and a second switch are connected in parallel between the first voltage supply path and the first filter circuit; and A third switch is connected between the second voltage supply path and the second filter circuit. The first filter circuit comprises a first inductor, a second inductor and a first capacitor connected in series. The second filter circuit comprises a third inductor and a second capacitor connected in series. One end of the first switch and one end of the second switch are connected to the first voltage supply path. The other end of the first switch is connected to one end of the first inductor and one end of the second inductor. The other end of the second switch is connected to the other end of the second inductor and the second power amplifier. The first capacitor is connected between the other end of the first inductor and the ground line. One end of the third switch is connected to the other end of the second inductor in the second voltage supply path and the second power amplifier. The other end of the third switch is connected to one end of the third inductor and the third power amplifier. The second capacitor is connected between the other end of the third inductor and the ground.

11. The tracker circuit of claim 10, wherein: When the first high-frequency signal is amplified by the first power amplifier, (i) if the channel bandwidth of the first high-frequency signal is greater than a first threshold width, the first switch, the second switch, and the third switch are opened; (ii) if the channel bandwidth of the first high-frequency signal is greater than a second threshold width and less than the first threshold width, the first switch is closed, and the second switch and the third switch are opened; (iii) if the channel bandwidth of the first high-frequency signal is less than the second threshold width, the first switch is opened, and the second switch and the third switch are closed. When the second high frequency signal is amplified by the second power amplifier, (i) if the channel bandwidth of the second high frequency signal is greater than the second threshold width, the first switch is closed, and the second switch and the third switch are opened; (ii) if the channel bandwidth of the second high frequency signal is less than the second threshold width, the first switch is opened, and the second switch and the third switch are closed. When the third high frequency signal is amplified by the third power amplifier, the first switch is opened, and the second switch and the third switch are closed.

12. The tracker circuit according to claim 10 or 11, wherein: The first frequency band is within the range of 3300 to 5000 MHz. The second frequency band is within the range of 1427 to 2690 MHz. The third frequency band mentioned above is included in the range of 698 to 960 MHz.

13. The tracker circuit according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein: The rated current of the second inductor is larger than the rated current of the first inductor.

14. A tracker circuit, wherein: have: A first external connection terminal connected to a first power amplifier; A second external connection terminal connected to a second power amplifier; an output switch circuit configured to selectively output at least one of a plurality of discrete voltages to the first external connection terminal and the second external connection terminal; A first voltage supply path connected between the output switch circuit and the first external connection terminal; A second voltage supply path connected between the output switch circuit and the second external connection terminal; as well as The first filter circuit is connected between the first voltage supply path and the ground, and is also connected between the second voltage supply path and the ground.

15. The tracker circuit of claim 14, wherein: The tracker circuit further includes a first switch connected between the first voltage supply path and the first filter circuit. The first filter circuit includes a first inductor and a first capacitor connected in series between the first switch and a ground line.

16. The tracker circuit of claim 15, wherein: One end of the first switch is connected to the output switch circuit. The other end of the first switch is connected to the first filter circuit and the second external connection terminal.

17. The tracker circuit of claim 14, wherein: The above tracker circuit also has: A first switch and a second switch are connected in parallel between the first voltage supply path and the first filter circuit; A third switch connected between the output switch circuit and the first external connection terminal; a fourth switch and a fifth switch connected in parallel between the second voltage supply path and the first filter circuit; and a sixth switch connected between the output switch circuit and the second external connection terminal, The first filter circuit comprises a first inductor, a second inductor and a first capacitor connected in series. One end of the first switch and one end of the second switch are connected to the first voltage supply path. One end of the fourth switch and one end of the fifth switch are connected to the second voltage supply path. The other end of the first switch and the other end of the fourth switch are connected to one end of the first inductor and one end of the second inductor, The other end of the second switch and the other end of the fifth switch are connected to the other end of the second inductor. The first capacitor is connected between the other end of the first inductor and the ground.

18. The tracker circuit of claim 14, wherein: The tracker circuit further includes a first switch and a second switch connected in parallel between the first voltage supply path and the first filter circuit. The first filter circuit comprises a first inductor, a second inductor and a first capacitor connected in series. One end of the first switch and one end of the second switch are connected to the first voltage supply path. The other end of the first switch is connected to one end of the first inductor and one end of the second inductor. The other end of the second switch is connected to the other end of the second inductor and the second external connection terminal. The first capacitor is connected between the other end of the first inductor and the ground.

19. The tracker circuit of claim 14, wherein: The above tracker circuit also has: A third external connection terminal connected to a third power amplifier; A third voltage supply path connected between the output switch circuit and the third external connection terminal; a second filter circuit connected between the first voltage supply path and the ground, connected between the second voltage supply path and the ground, and connected between the third voltage supply path and the ground; A first switch and a second switch are connected in parallel between the first voltage supply path and the first filter circuit; and A third switch is connected between the second voltage supply path and the second filter circuit. The first filter circuit comprises a first inductor, a second inductor and a first capacitor connected in series. The second filter circuit comprises a third inductor and a second capacitor connected in series. One end of the first switch and one end of the second switch are connected to the first voltage supply path. The other end of the first switch is connected to one end of the first inductor and one end of the second inductor. The other end of the second switch is connected to the other end of the second inductor and the second external connection terminal. The first capacitor is connected between the other end of the first inductor and the ground line. One end of the third switch is connected to the other end of the second inductor in the second voltage supply path and the second external connection terminal. The other end of the third switch is connected to one end of the third inductor and the third external connection terminal. The second capacitor is connected between the other end of the third inductor and the ground.

20. A tracking method, wherein: When a first high frequency signal in a first frequency band is amplified by a first power amplifier, (i) if the channel bandwidth of the first high-frequency signal is greater than a threshold width, the filter circuit is not connected to the first voltage supply path; if the channel bandwidth of the first high-frequency signal is less than the threshold width, the filter circuit is connected to the first voltage supply path; (ii) selectively supplying at least one of a plurality of discrete voltages to the first power amplifier via the first voltage supply path, When a second high frequency signal in a second frequency band is amplified by a second power amplifier, (i) connecting the filter circuit to a second voltage supply path, (ii) selectively supplying at least one of a plurality of discrete voltages to the second power amplifier via the second voltage supply path.

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