Low noise amplifier device in wireless communication system and receiver using same

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a receiver that expands a reception operating range by improving a noise factor (NF) and linearity of an LNA in a wireless communication system. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the receiver for receiving an RF signal in a wireless communication system comprises: an LNA device configured to convert the RF signal into a differential signal and output, a portion of the RF signal being distributed to an input of at least one transformer through a signal path of at least one switch based on a first control signal, an impedance of at least one variable load connected to an output of the at least one transformer is controlled based on a second control signal; a control circuit outputting at least one of the first control signal and the second control signal to the LNA device; and a signal processor applying the RF signal to the LNA device and controlling the control circuit to apply at least one of the first control signal and the second control signal to the LNA device based on an input power level of the RF signal, wherein the first control signal controls the LNA device such that the portion of the RF signal is distributed by the control circuit to the at least one transformer of a plurality of transformers in the LNA device, the second control signal variably controls an impedance of the at least one of a plurality of variable loads in the LNA device.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a low noise amplifier (LNA) device of a receiver that receives a wireless signal in a wireless communication system. BACKGROUND

[0002] As the technology of wireless communication technology evolves through generations, the technology has mainly developed for human service development, such as voice call, multimedia service, and data service. As the 5th-Generation (5G) communication system is commercialized, it is expected that the number of connected devices will grow exponentially, and more and more devices will access the communication network. Examples of connected devices can include vehicles, robots, drones, home appliances, displays, smart sensors connected to various infrastructures, construction machinery, and factory equipment. Mobile devices are expected to evolve in various forms, such as augmented reality glasses, virtual reality head-mounted devices, and hologram devices. In order to provide various services by connecting hundreds of billions of devices and things in the 6th-Generation (6G) era, there have been ongoing efforts to develop improved 6G communication systems. Therefore, the 6G communication system is also called a beyond-5G system.

[0003] It is expected that the 6G communication system, which is commercialized around 2030, will have a peak data rate of Teri (1000 Gbps) and a wireless latency of less than 100 microseconds, so its speed will be 50 times that of the 5G communication system, and the wireless latency will be 1 / 10.

[0004] In order to achieve such a high data rate and ultra-low latency, it is considered to implement the 6G communication system in a Terahertz band (for example, 95 GHz to 3 THz bands). Since the Terahertz band has more severe path loss and atmospheric absorption than the millimeter wave band introduced in 5G, it is expected that technologies capable of securing signal transmission distance (i.e., coverage) will become more critical. As major technologies to secure coverage, it is necessary to develop radio frequency (RF) elements, antennas, new waveforms having better coverage than orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), beamforming, and massive multiple input multiple output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, and multi-antenna transmission techniques such as large-scale antennas. In addition, technologies related to improving coverage of the Terahertz band signal, such as lenses and antennas based on metamaterials, orbital angular momentum (OAM), and reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS), are also under continuous discussion.

[0005] In addition, in order to improve the spectral efficiency and overall network performance, the following technologies have been developed for the 6G communication system: a full-duplex technology that enables uplink and downlink transmissions to use the same frequency resources at the same time; a network technology that utilizes satellites, high-altitude platform stations (HAPS), etc. in an integrated manner; an improved network structure for supporting mobile base stations, etc. and implementing network operation optimization and automation, etc.; a dynamic spectrum sharing technology that enables conflict avoidance based on spectrum usage prediction; the application of AI in wireless communication by utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in the design phase of 6G development and internalizing end-to-end AI support functions to improve overall network operation; and a next-generation distributed computing technology that overcomes the limitations of UE computing power through network-accessible super-high-performance communication and computing resources such as mobile edge computing (MEC), the cloud, etc. In addition, efforts are being made to strengthen connectivity between devices, optimize networks, promote network entity software, and improve the openness of wireless communication by designing new protocols for 6G communication systems, developing mechanisms to implement hardware-based security environments and data security usage, and developing technologies to maintain privacy.

[0006] It is expected that research and development of 6G communication systems will bring about next-generation hyperconnectivity experiences in hyperconnectivity including person-to-machine (P2M) and machine-to-machine (M2M). In particular, it is expected that services such as truly immersive extended reality (XR), high-fidelity mobile holograms, and digital replicas can be provided through 6G communication systems. In addition, services such as remote surgery for enhanced safety and reliability, industrial automation, and emergency response will be provided through 6G communication systems to enable these technologies to be applied to various fields such as industry, medicine, automobiles, and home appliances.

[0007] In a wireless communication system, a receiver is a device that amplifies a radio frequency (RF) signal input through an antenna using a low noise amplifier (LNA) and down-converts the amplified signal to an intermediate frequency band or a base band through a mixer. The reception operating range (Rx dynamic range) of the receiver is determined by the linearity that determines the maximum input level that the low noise amplifier circuit can allow and the noise figure (NF) that determines the minimum input level. The noise figure (NF) is an index indicating how much noise is added when an input signal passes through a specific device or circuit block.

[0008] Figure 1 The structure of a general receiver using an LNA and the reception operating range in a wireless communication system are shown.

[0009] Figure 1The receiver 100 can be, for example, a receiver that receives a millimeter wave signal in a 5G system. The receiver 100 can include an LNA 110 for amplifying and outputting an RF signal received through an antenna, a mixer 120 for down-converting the amplified signal to an IF signal or a baseband signal, and an IF amplifier 130 for amplifying and outputting the down-converted signal. Generally, the LNA 110 can employ a small-size transistor design to minimize a noise figure. On the other hand, the linearity of the LNA 110 is proportional to the transistor size.

[0010] Figure 1 (a) shows a case where the input power level of the RF signal 101 in the receiver 100 is lower than the minimum input power level of the LNA 110, and thus exceeds the reception operating range of the receiver 100. As shown in (a), when the input power level of the RF signal 101 is lower than the noise figure, the RF signal 101, which is outside the reception operating range of the receiver 100, cannot be processed. Figure 1 (a) shows a case where the input power level of the RF signal 101 in the receiver 100 is lower than the minimum input power level of the LNA 110, and thus exceeds the reception operating range of the receiver 100. As shown in (a), when the input power level of the RF signal 101 is lower than the noise figure, the RF signal 101, which is outside the reception operating range of the receiver 100, cannot be processed.

[0011] Figure 1 (b) shows a case where the input power level of the RF signal 102 is within the reception operating range of the receiver 100, i.e., higher than the minimum input power level of the LNA 110 and lower than the maximum input level of the LNA 110 that allows the linearity to be maintained. As shown in (b), when the input power level of the RF signal 102 is within the reception operating range of the receiver 100, the receiver 100 normally outputs the RF signal 101 as an IF signal or a baseband signal (104). Figure 1 (b) shows a case where the input power level of the RF signal 102 is within the reception operating range of the receiver 100, i.e., higher than the minimum input power level of the LNA 110 and lower than the maximum input level of the LNA 110 that allows the linearity to be maintained. As shown in (b), when the input power level of the RF signal 102 is within the reception operating range of the receiver 100, the receiver 100 normally outputs the RF signal 101 as an IF signal or a baseband signal (104).

[0012] Figure 1 (c) shows a case where the input power level of the RF signal 103 in the receiver 100 is higher than the minimum input power level of the LNA 110, but partially exceeds the maximum input level of the LNA 110, and thus partially exceeds the reception operating range of the receiver 100. As shown in (c), when the input power level of the RF signal 101 partially exceeds the reception operating range of the receiver 100, the linearity of the LNA 110 in the receiver 100 can not be maintained, and thus the output signal 105 can include a distorted component. Figure 1 (c) shows a case where the input power level of the RF signal 103 in the receiver 100 is higher than the minimum input power level of the LNA 110, but partially exceeds the maximum input level of the LNA 110, and thus partially exceeds the reception operating range of the receiver 100. As shown in (c), when the input power level of the RF signal 101 partially exceeds the reception operating range of the receiver 100, the linearity of the LNA 110 in the receiver 100 can not be maintained, and thus the output signal 105 can include a distorted component.

[0013] Since the linearity of the LNA 110 in the receiver 100 has a characteristic that is proportional to the size of the transistor included in the LNA 110, the LNA 110 can be referred to as a low linearity module. Therefore, the LNA located at the input end of the receiver needs to achieve the minimum noise figure within the range of maintaining linearity in design. Meanwhile, in a wireless communication system using multiple-input multiple-output-orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (MIMO-OFDM), due to a high peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR), the LNA device of the receiver can be saturated and cause a decline in reception performance. Therefore, the conventional receiver essentially needs an attenuator to reduce the input power level of the LNA. SUMMARY

[0014] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0015] The present disclosure provides a receiver that improves the noise figure (NF) and linearity of an LNA to expand the reception operating range (Rx dynamic range) in a wireless communication system.

[0016] In addition, the present disclosure provides an RF chip that improves the noise figure (NF) and linearity of an LNA to expand the reception operating range in a wireless communication system.

[0017] The present disclosure also provides an LNA device of a receiver that has improved noise figure (NF) and linearity in a wireless communication system.

[0018] In addition, the present disclosure provides an LNA device, a receiver, and an RF chip that expand the reception operating range in a wireless communication system using a millimeter wave or terahertz band.

[0019] TECHNICAL SOLUTION

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a receiver receiving a radio frequency (RF) signal in a wireless communication system includes a low noise amplifier (LNA) device configured to convert and output a radio frequency (RF) signal into a differential signal, a portion of the RF signal being distributed to an input terminal of at least one transformer based on a first control signal through a signal path of at least one switch, and an impedance of at least one variable load connected to an output terminal of the at least one transformer being controlled based on a second control signal; a control circuit configured to output at least one of the first control signal and the second control signal to the LNA device; and a signal processor configured to apply the RF signal to the LNA device and control the control circuit to apply at least one of the first control signal and the second control signal to the LNA device based on an input power level of the RF signal, wherein the first control signal controls the LNA device such that a portion of the RF signal is distributed to at least one transformer of a plurality of transformers of the LNA device, and the second control signal variably controls an impedance of at least one variable load of a plurality of variable loads in the LNA device.

[0021] Further, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a radio frequency (RF) chip receiving a RF signal in a wireless communication system includes a low noise amplifier (LNA) device configured to convert and output a radio frequency (RF) signal into a differential signal, a portion of the RF signal being distributed to an input terminal of at least one transformer based on a first control signal through a signal path of at least one switch, and an impedance of at least one variable load connected to an output terminal of the at least one transformer being controlled based on a second control signal; a control circuit configured to output at least one of the first control signal and the second control signal to the LNA device; and a signal processor configured to apply the RF signal to the LNA device and control the control circuit to apply at least one of the first control signal and the second control signal to the LNA device based on an input power level of the RF signal, wherein the first control signal controls the LNA device such that a portion of the RF signal is distributed to at least one transformer of a plurality of transformers of the LNA device, and the second control signal variably controls an impedance of at least one variable load of a plurality of variable loads in the LNA device.

[0022] Further, in an embodiment of the present disclosure, the LNA device includes a mode selector, an operation mode of the mode selector being selected by the signal processor based on control of the input power level of the RF signal. The mode selector includes a plurality of transformers connected in parallel to an input terminal of the RF signal, a plurality of switches connected to input terminals of the plurality of transformers, and a plurality of variable loads connected to output terminals of the plurality of transformers except for a first transformer to which the RF signal is directly applied.

[0023] Further, in the embodiments of the present disclosure, the LNA device includes a mode selector, and an operation mode of the mode selector is selected by the signal processor based on control of an input power level of the RF signal. The mode selector includes at least two transformers connected in series with an input terminal of the RF signal, and a plurality of transformers connected in parallel with rear stages of the at least two transformers; a plurality of switches connected to input terminals of the plurality of transformers; and a plurality of variable loads connected to output terminals of the plurality of transformers except for a first transformer to which the RF signal is directly applied. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 A structure of a general receiver using an LNA in a wireless communication system and a reception operating range are shown; Figure 2 An example of a single-ended type LNA device in a wireless communication system is shown; Figure 3a and Figure 3b A single-ended type LNA device in which an attenuator is connected to a front end of an amplifier in a wireless communication system is shown; Figure 4a and Figure 4b A single-ended type LNA device in which an attenuator is connected to a rear end of an amplifier in a wireless communication system is shown; Figure 5a and Figure 5b A single-ended type LNA device using a passive attenuator in a wireless communication system is shown; Figure 6 An example of a receiver including a single-ended type LNA device in a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 7a , Figure 7b and Figure 7c Operation of a single-ended type LNA device in a receiver having a Figure 6 structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 8 An example of a receiver including a single-ended type LNA device in a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 9a , Figure 9b and Figure 9c Operation of a single-ended type LNA device in a receiver having a Figure 8 structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 10a and Figure 10b An effect of expansion of a reception operating range in a receiver using an LNA device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 11a and Figure 11bThis illustrates the effect of preserving amplifier gain characteristics in a receiver using an LNA device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 12a , Figure 12b and Figure 12c Simulation results are shown of adjusting the input power level transmitted from the LNA device to the amplifier via a mode selector according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The embodiments of this disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this context, it should be noted that the same components in the drawings are indicated by the same reference numerals wherever possible. Furthermore, it should be noted that the drawings of this disclosure are only for aiding understanding of the invention, and the invention is not limited to the forms or arrangements shown in the drawings. Detailed descriptions of known functions or structures will be omitted when illustrating the spirit of the invention. It should be noted that in the following description, only the parts necessary for understanding the operation of the various embodiments of the invention are described; descriptions of other parts will be omitted to avoid obscuring the spirit of the invention. Moreover, although this disclosure uses terminology used in certain communication standards (e.g., the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP)) to describe various embodiments, this is merely illustrative. The various embodiments of this disclosure can be readily modified and applied to other communication systems.

[0026] In this disclosure, it should be understood that blocks in each flowchart and combinations of flowcharts can be executed by computer program instructions. Since the computer program instructions can be configured in a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus, the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, generate means for performing the functions described by the blocks of each flowchart. Since the computer program instructions can be stored in a computer-usable or computer-readable storage device or orientable to a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to implement the functions in a particular manner, the instructions stored in the computer-usable or computer-readable storage device can generate an article including instruction means for performing the functions described by the blocks of each flowchart. Since the computer program instructions can be configured in a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, can generate a process that executes on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, such that a series of operational steps performed on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus provide steps for performing the functions described by the blocks of each flowchart.

[0027] Furthermore, each block may represent a code module, code segment, or code section, which includes one or more executable instructions for performing a specific logical function. It should also be noted that in some alternative embodiments, the functions mentioned in a block may occur in a different order. For example, two blocks shown consecutively may actually be executed substantially in parallel, or may be executed in reverse order according to their respective functions.

[0028] As used herein, the term "unit" refers to a software element or a hardware element, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). The "unit" has a specific function. However, the "unit" is not limited to software or hardware. The "unit" can be configured in a storage medium that can be addressed, or can be configured as one or more processors that execute a program. Thus, the "unit" includes, by way of example, elements such as software elements, object-oriented software elements, class elements, and task elements, processes, functions, attributes, procedures, sub-routines, program code segments, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables. The functions provided in the components and "units" can be combined into fewer components and "units", or further divided into additional components and "units". Furthermore, components and "units" can be implemented to execute one or more CPUs in a device or a secure multimedia card. According to an embodiment, the "…unit" can include one or more processors.

[0029] As used herein, phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include all possible combinations of the items listed with those phrases. As used herein, terminology such as "first" and "second" can be used to distinguish one component from another component, but does not limit the components in other aspects (for example, importance or order).

[0030] Figure 2 An example of a single-ended LNA device in a wireless communication system is illustrated.

[0031] Referring to Figure 2 The LNA device includes a plurality of multi-stage connected transformers (TFs) 211, 212, 213,... outputting differential signals having a 180-degree phase difference, a plurality of multi-stage connected amplifiers 221, 222,... connected between two of the plurality of transformers 211, 212, 213,..., respectively, and an attenuator 231 connected between first and second transformers of the plurality of transformers 211, 212, 213,....

[0032] In Figure 2 Each of the plurality of transformers (TFs) 211, 212, 213,... includes a first coil connected to an input end and a second coil connected to an output end, and the first coil and the second coil include an inductive component. The transformers (TFs) 211, 212, 213,... convert an input signal in the first coil into a differential signal having a 180-degree phase difference and output the same to the output end of the second coil. Each of the plurality of amplifiers 221, 222,... constitutes a plurality of amplifier stages (first, second,...) for amplifying and outputting an input signal. AsFigure 2 As shown, in the amplifier stages (first stage, second stage,...), the amplifier of each stage includes a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) with input terminals 21 and 22 connected to the gate, output terminals 23 and 24 connected to the drain, and capacitors C1 and C2 connected between the drain and the input terminals 21 and 22. The output terminals 23 and 24 of each amplifier are connected to the input terminals of a transformer whose output terminals are connected to the input terminals of the next stage amplifier.

[0033] For example, in a single-ended LNA device with the structure of Figure 2 The parasitic capacitance (CGD) between the gate and the drain of the transistor (MOSFET) in the millimeter wave or terahertz band limits the physical maximum available gain (MAG), which makes it difficult to design an amplifier with high gain characteristics. Therefore, a differential amplifier structure using capacitors C1 and C2 as cross-coupled capacitors (Cn) to cancel Cgd is more common. Since the LNA device in the receiver receives an RF signal through a single antenna (not shown), the transformer (TF) 211 that converts a single-ended signal RF IN into a differential signal with a phase difference of 180 degrees is located at the input terminal of the LNA device. Figure 2 The multi-stage connected transformers (TF) 211, 212, 213,... including the transformer (TF) 211 at the input terminal are used for impedance matching between the antenna and the amplifier stages (first stage, second stage,...). As described above, in a wireless communication system supporting MIMO-OFDM, due to the high PAPR, the amplifier in the LNA device can be saturated, resulting in a decrease in the receiver characteristics (e.g., deterioration of linearity, resulting in a reduction in the receiver operating range). To solve this problem, a typical LNA device can require an attenuator 231 to control the input power level of the input signal within the receiver operating range.

[0034] However, in an LNA device using an attenuator, the receiver operating range can be reduced or the gain characteristics can be changed.

[0035] Figure 3a An example of a single-ended LNA device with an attenuator connected to the front end of the amplifier in a wireless communication system is shown.

[0036] Similar to the LNA device of Figure 2 , Figure 3aThe LNA device includes: multiple multi-stage transformers (TFs) 311, 312, 313, 314... that output differential signals; multiple amplifiers 321, 322... that are connected in multiple stages between two of the multiple transformers 311, 312, 313, 314...; and an attenuator 231 connected between the first transformer 311 and the second transformer 312 at the front end of the LNA device. The first transformer 311 receives a single-ended signal RF through a single antenna (not shown). IN It outputs a differential signal, and attenuator 331 attenuates the output differential signal. The attenuated differential signal is then input to the input terminal of the second transformer 312.

[0037] If as Figure 3a As shown, the LNA device is designed with a transformer 312 for interstage impedance matching between the attenuator 231 and the amplifier, and it is placed at the front end of the LNA device. Compared with the case where the attenuator 231 is not used, the LNA device will have additional losses due to the attenuator 231. Att+TF Loss TF Loss Att+TF Loss due to losses caused by attenuators and transformers (TF) TF Losses due to transformer (TF).

[0038] Figure 4a An example of a single-ended LNA device in a wireless communication system is shown, in which an attenuator is connected to the back end of an amplifier.

[0039] and Figure 2 Similar to LNA devices. Figure 4a The LNA device includes: multiple multi-stage transformers (TFs) 411, 412, 413, 414... that output differential signals; multiple amplifiers 421, 422... that are connected in multiple stages between two of the multiple transformers 411, 412, 413, 414...; and an attenuator 431 connected between the first transformer 413 and the second transformer 414 at the back end of the LNA device. The transformer 413 connected to the input of the LNA device receives a single-ended signal RF. IN The signal is then output as a differential signal, which is amplified by multistage amplifiers 421 and 422. Attenuator 431 attenuates the amplified differential signal.

[0040] like Figure 4b As shown, if the LNA device is designed to place attenuator 431 after amplifiers 421, 422, etc., then when a single-ended signal RF with a large PAPR is...IN When applied to the LNA amplifier, signal distortion 41 will occur due to saturation of the amplifiers 421, 422,.... In this case, as shown in Figure 4b the receiving operating range of the receiver will be reduced.

[0041] Figure 5a An example of a single-ended LNA device using a passive attenuator in a wireless communication system is shown.

[0042] Similar to the LNA device of Figure 2 , the LNA device of Figure 5a includes a plurality of multi-stage connected transformers (TF) 511, 512, 513, 514,... outputting differential signals, a plurality of multi-stage connected amplifiers 521, 522,... connected between two of the plurality of transformers 511, 512, 513, 514,..., respectively, and a passive attenuator 531 connected between a first transformer 513 and a second transformer 514 of the plurality of transformers 511, 512, 513, 514,... connected to the back end of the LNA device. The transformer 513 connected to the input end of the LNA device receives a single-ended signal RF IN and outputs it as a differential signal, and the differential signal output is amplified by the multi-stage amplifiers 521 and 522. The passive attenuator 531 attenuates the amplified differential signal. In addition, the passive attenuator 531 is generally designed to have 50Ω (i.e., 100Ω differentially) at the input and output ends, but the attenuation level is adjusted by the resistance size. In this case, as shown in Figure 5b , the gain characteristics of the amplifiers change during the gain control process of the LNA device. In Figure 5b , reference numerals 51, 52, and 53 show that the gain characteristics of the amplifiers change according to the resistance of the passive attenuator 531. For example, as described above, each end of the LNA device is matched to a specific impedance (usually 50Ω) to transmit a signal, and the attenuator 531 attenuates the signal by changing the resistance component of the impedance. In this case, in the attenuator 531, the signal should be attenuated while maintaining the frequency response characteristics (i.e., the gain characteristics of the amplifiers), as shown by reference numeral 51, but in the attenuator 531, as the attenuation level increases, the matching impedance changes significantly, and the frequency response characteristics change significantly, as shown by reference numerals 52 and 53.

[0043] Hereinafter, the configuration of the LNA device that expands the receiving operating range of the receiver while maintaining the performance (noise figure, linearity, gain characteristics) of the LNA device in the embodiment of the disclosure will be described.

[0044] Figure 6 An example of a receiver including a single-ended LNA device in a wireless communication system according to the embodiment of the disclosure is shown.

[0045] Figure 6 The receiver may include a signal processor 610, control circuitry 620, and an LNA device. The LNA device may include a mode selector 630, multiple transformers (TFs) 612… and multi-stage amplifiers 621, 622… Amplifiers 621, 622… may employ… Figure 2 The amplifiers 221, 222... have the same configuration, or various known differential amplifiers such as cascaded differential amplifiers are used. The signal processor 610 receives the single-ended signal RF through an antenna (not shown). IN The signal is applied to the input of the LNA device. Furthermore, the signal processor 610 is based on a single-ended signal RF. IN The input power level is controlled by the control circuit 620, which outputs a first control signal to the mode selector 630 to control the N+1 transformers (TF0, TF1...TF1) connected in parallel in the mode selector 630. N Switching the electrical connections between 611-0, 611-1...611-N, and outputting a second control signal to the mode selector 630 to control the N variable loads (ZL1...ZL...) in the mode selector 630. N The impedance of 62-1...62-N ​​can be variably controlled. For example, signal processor 610 can function as a typical RF switch and control control circuit 620 to output the first and second control signals described in this disclosure.

[0046] exist Figure 6 In the middle, the mode selector 630 includes: controlling multiple transformers (TF0, TF1...TF2) based on a first control signal. N The N+1 switches (SW0, SW1...SW1) that are electrically connected between 611-0, 611-1...611-N for switching on and off are respectively. N ) 61-0, 61-1……61-N; its impedance can be based on N variable loads (ZL1……ZL) that are variablely controlled by the second control signal. N 62-1……62-N; and N transformers (TF1……TF) N 611-1……611-N, the two input terminals of its first coil are connected to switches (SW0, SW1……SW). N Two switches from 61-0, 61-1...61-N are connected between the two output terminals of the second coil and the variable load (ZL1...ZL...). N A parallel connection of one of 62-1...62-N. Additionally, the single-ended signal RF... INThe first input terminal of the first coil of the first transformer (TF0) 611-0 in the mode selector 630 is applied, and the switch (SW0) 61-0 is connected between the second input terminal of the first coil of the first transformer (TF0) 611-0 and ground.

[0047] The first transformer (TF0) 611-0 receives a single-ended signal RF. IN It outputs a differential signal with a 180-degree phase difference. The first input terminal of the first amplifier 621 is connected to the first output terminal of the second coil of the first transformer (TF0) 611-0, and the second input terminal of the first amplifier 621 is connected to the second output terminal of the second coil of the first transformer (TF0) 611-0. The differential signal is amplified by the first amplifier 621. Switch (SW0) 61-0 is connected in the mode selector 630 between the first input terminal of the first coil of the second transformer (TF1) 611-1, which is connected in parallel with the first transformer (TF0) 611-0, and switch (SW1) 61-1 is connected between the second input terminal of the first coil of the second transformer (TF1) 611-1 and ground. Variable load (ZL1) 62-1 is connected between the first output terminal and the second output terminal of the second coil of the second transformer (TF1) 611-1.

[0048] In mode selector 630, transformers (TF2...TF) are connected in parallel with the stage following the first transformer (TF0) 611-0. N 611-2...611-N have the same connection structure. For example, transformer TF N With transformer TF N-1 Parallel connection, switch SW N-1 Connected to transformer TF N The first input terminal of the first coil is connected to ground, and switch SW1 is connected to transformer TF. N The second input terminal of the first coil is connected to ground. Variable load ZL N Connected to transformer TF N Between the first output terminal and the second output terminal of the second coil.

[0049] exist Figure 6 In the receiver, the single-ended LNA device includes a transformer-based mode selector (hereinafter referred to as "mode selector") 630 instead of an attenuator, and under the control of the signal processor 610, it selects the single-ended signal RF. IN The input power level will be used to apply the first control signal output by the control circuit 620 to the N+1 switches (SW0, SW1...SW1) in the mode selector 630. NThe switches 61-0, 61-1, ..., 61-N are used to selectively control their on / off switching. The first control signal can be applied to each of the N+1 switches (SW0, SW1, ..., SW2). N ) 61-0, 61-1...61-1 N+1 switch control signals. Furthermore, under the control of the signal processor 610, based on the single-ended signal RF IN The input power level will be used to apply the second control signal output by the control circuit 620 to the N variable loads (ZL1...ZL) in the mode selector 630. N )62-1……62-N, to allow for variable impedance control. The second control signal can be applied to each of the N variable loads (ZL1……ZL) respectively. N N load control signals in 62-1……62-N, each with variable impedance control.

[0050] Variable load (ZL1...ZL) N The impedance control range of 62-1...62-N ​​and the controllable input power level range in the receiver can be determined according to... Figure 6 The transformers (TF0, TF1...TF1) included in the mode selector 630 N The number of 611-0, 611-1...611-N and the variable loads (ZL1...ZL) N It is determined by at least one of the impedance values ​​of 62-1……62-N.

[0051] In this disclosure, the signal processor 610 can control the operation of the control circuit 620, which is capable of outputting a first control signal, so that the transformer (TF0, TF1...TF) N The number of transformers operating in 611-0, 611-1...611-N and the single-ended signal RF IN The input power level increases proportionally. For example, switches (SW0, SW1...SW1) N The switches in 61-0, 61-1...61-N that are switched to the on state can be arranged from switch (SW0) to switch (SW). N The order of the input power level varies proportionally (or varies according to the operating mode of the mode selector 630).

[0052] Furthermore, in this disclosure, the signal processor 610 is based on a single-ended signal RF. INthe input power level of the single-ended signal RF N . For example, the signal processor 610 can variably control the impedance of the variable load connected to the output terminal of the transformer (TF) operating in the mode selector 630 to maintain linearity within the reception operating range (Rx dynamic range) according to the input power level. In this case, the impedance of each of the variable loads (ZL1...ZL N 62-1...62-N can be controlled to have different impedance values. As an alternative embodiment, the set values for variably controlling the impedance of each of the variable loads (ZL1...ZL N 62-1...62-N can be pre-stored as table information in the receiver and used. The variable control set values of the impedance can be set to maintain linearity within the reception operating range (Rx dynamic range) according to the input power level of the single-ended signal RF N .

[0053] The operating mode of the mode selector 630 can be divided into a low power mode in which the input power level is in a small range, a medium power mode in which the input power level is in a medium range, and a high power mode in which the input power level is in a large range, according to the input power level of the single-ended signal RF IN . The low power mode, the medium power mode, and the high power mode can be divided by using a threshold or reference value pre-set in the receiver according to the size of the input power level. As an alternative embodiment, the receiver can receive the threshold or reference value for dividing the operating mode from the base station through high layer signaling, or determine the threshold or reference value through configuration information stored in the receiver.

[0054] Figure 7a , Figure 7b and Figure 7c shows the operation of a single-ended type LNA device in a receiver having the structure shown in Figure 6 . In the examples of Figure 7a , Figure 7b and Figure 7c , the single-ended type LNA device has the same configuration as the single-ended type LNA device described in Figure 6 .

[0055] Figure 7a shows an example of the operation of a single-ended type LNA device when the mode selector 630 of Figure 6 operates in a low power mode, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 6 The signal processor 610 in the receiver of Figure 7aAs shown, when the input power level is detected to correspond to a low power mode, the signal processor 610 sends signals to switches SW0, SW1...SW2 via the control circuit 620. N Output a first control signal, which causes switches SW0, SW1...SW to... N Switch SW0 701 is turned on, while the other switches SW1...SW1 are turned on. N Turn off, so that transformers TF0, TF1...TF N Direct application of single-ended signal RF IN Transformer TF0 is working, while other transformers TF1...TF N Not working. Figure 7a In the example, the single-ended signal RF IN The signal is converted into a differential signal by transformer TF0. The differential signal is then amplified by amplifiers 621, 622, etc., before being output. Figure 7a In the example, for ease of description, the operation of this disclosure is in low-power mode with only one transformer TF0 operating while the remaining transformers TF1...TF2 are operating. N The example shown is that the transformer is not in operation, but it can also be controlled to make at least one transformer, including transformer TF0, TF1, etc., operate in low-power mode. The number of transformers operating in mode selector 630 in low-power mode can be preset.

[0057] Figure 7b An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 6 An example of the operation of a single-ended LNA device when the mode selector 630 is operating in medium power mode.

[0058] Figure 6 The signal processor 610 in the receiver identifies single-ended signals (RF). IN The input power level of 72, and as Figure 7b As shown, when the input power level is detected to correspond to the medium power mode, the signal processor 610 sends signals to switches SW0, SW1...SW2 via the control circuit 620. N Output a first control signal, which causes switches SW0, SW1...SW to... N Switch SW1 702 is turned on, while the other switches SW0, SW1...SW are turned on. N Turn off, so that transformers TF0, TF1...TF N A single-ended signal RF is directly applied in the middle IN Transformer TF0 and transformer TF1 connected in parallel with transformer TF0 are operating, while other transformers TF2...TF N It does not work. Furthermore, the signal processor 610 outputs a second control signal via the control circuit 620, based on the single-ended signal RF.IN The input power level of 72 is for the variable load ZL1...ZL N The impedance of the variable load ZL1 is variablely controlled. Figure 7b In the example, the single-ended signal RF IN A portion of 72 is allocated to transformer TF1 and variable load ZL1. Figure 7b In the middle, single-ended signal (RF) IN )72 is converted into a differential signal by transformer TF0. The differential signal is amplified by amplifiers 621, 622... and then output. Figure 7b In the example, for ease of description, the operation of this disclosure is in medium power mode with only two transformers TF0 and TF1 operating while the remaining transformers TF2...TF1 are operating. N The example shown is that the transformer is not in operation, but it can also be controlled to make multiple transformers, including transformers TF0 and TF1, operate in medium power mode. In medium power mode, the number of operating transformers of the mode selector 630 can be preset.

[0059] Figure 7c An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 6 This is an example of the operation of a single-ended LNA device when the mode selector 630 is in high-power mode.

[0060] Figure 6 The signal processor 610 in the receiver identifies single-ended signals (RF). IN The input power level of 73, and as Figure 7c As shown in the example, when the input power level is detected to correspond to a high power mode, the signal processor 610 sends a signal to switches SW0, SW1...SW2 via the control circuit 620. N Output a first control signal, which causes switches SW0, SW1...SW to... N Switch SW in N The circuit is on, while the other switches SW0, SW1...SW N-1 Turn off so that all transformers TF0, TF1...TF N In addition, the signal processor 610 outputs a second control signal through the control circuit 620 to control the signal according to the single-ended signal (RF). IN The input power level of 72 is relative to the variable load ZL1...ZL N The impedance can be variably controlled. Figure 7c In the example, single-ended signal (RF) IN A portion of 73 is allocated to transformer TF1...TF in mode selector 630. N and variable load ZL1……ZL N .exist Figure 7cIn the middle, single-ended signal (RF) IN )73 is converted into a differential signal by transformer TF0. The differential signal is amplified by amplifiers 621, 622... and then output. Figure 7c In the example, for ease of description, the operation of this disclosure is based on all transformers TF0, TF1...TF in high power mode. N The example provided illustrates the operation, but it can also be controlled so that some transformers do not operate in high-power mode. In high-power mode, the number of operating transformers in the mode selector 630 can be preset.

[0061] Figure 8 An example of a receiver including a single-ended LNA device in a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0062] Figure 8 The receiver may include a signal processor 810, a control circuit 820, and an LNA device. The LNA device may include a transformer-based mode selector (hereinafter referred to as the mode selector) 830, multiple transformers (TFs) 812… and multi-stage amplifiers 821, 822… . Amplifiers 821, 822… may employ… Figure 2 The amplifiers 221, 222... have the same configuration, or various known differential amplifiers are used. The signal processor 810 processes the single-ended signal RF received via an antenna (not shown). IN The signal is applied to the input of the LNA device. Furthermore, the signal processor 810 is based on a single-ended signal RF. IN The input power level is controlled by the control circuit 820, which outputs a first control signal and a second control signal to the mode selector 630. The first control signal is used to control the N+1 transformers (TF0, TF1...TF1) connected in series / parallel in the mode selector 630. N The switching of electrical connections between 611-0, 611-1...611-N, and the second control signal are used to control the on / off switching of the N variable loads (ZL1...ZL) in the mode selector 830. N The impedance of transformers TF0, TF1, ..., TF2 is variablely controlled. N In 611-0, 611-1...611-N, two transformers (TF0, TF1) 611-0 and 611-1 are connected in parallel (i.e., they directly receive single-ended signals RF from signal processor 810). IN Transformer TF0 is connected in parallel with transformer TF1), and transformer (TF1) 611-1 is connected in parallel with the remaining transformers (TF2...TF1). N 611-2……611-N are connected in series.

[0063] exist Figure 8In the middle, the mode selector 830 includes: controlling multiple transformers (TF0, TF1...TF2) based on a first control signal. N The N+1 switches (SW0, SW1...SW1) that are electrically connected between 611-0, 611-1...611-N for switching on and off are respectively. N ) 81-0, 81-1……81-N; impedance can be variablely controlled by N variable loads (ZL1……ZL) based on the second control signal. N )82-1……82-N; and N transformers connected in series (TF1……TF N )811-1……811-N, the two input terminals of its first coil are connected to switches (SW0, SW1……SW) N Two switches from 81-0, 81-1...81N are connected between the two output terminals of the second coil and a variable load (ZL1...ZL...). N A connection in 82-1...82-N. Additionally, the single-ended signal RF... IN An application is made to the first input terminal of the first coil of the first transformer (TF0) 811-0 in the mode selector 830, and a switch (SW0) 81-0 is connected between the second input terminal of the first coil of the first transformer (TF0) 811-0 and ground.

[0064] The first transformer (TF0) 811-0 receives a single-ended signal RF. IN It outputs a differential signal with a 180-degree phase difference. The first input terminal of the first amplifier 821 is connected to the first output terminal of the second coil of the first transformer (TF0) 811-0, and the second input terminal of the first amplifier 821 is connected to the second output terminal of the second coil of the first transformer (TF0) 811-0. The differential signal is amplified by the first amplifier 821. Switch (SW0) 81-0 is connected in the mode selector 830 between the first input terminal of the first coil of the second transformer (TF1) 811-1, which is connected in parallel with the first transformer (TF0) 811-0, and switch (SW1) 81-1 is connected between the second input terminal of the first coil of the second transformer (TF1) 811-1 and ground. Variable load (ZL1) 82-1 is connected between the first output terminal and the second output terminal of the second coil of the second transformer (TF1) 811-1.

[0065] In mode selector 630, transformers (TF2...TF1) are connected in series with the stage following the second transformer (TF1) 811-1. N 811-2...811-N have the same connection structure. For example, transformer TF N With transformer TF N-1 Series connection, switch SW N Connected to transformer TFN The input terminal of the first coil is connected to the transformer TF N-1 Between the output terminals of the second coil, the variable load ZL N Connected to transformer TF N Between the first output terminal and the second output terminal of the second coil.

[0066] exist Figure 8 In the receiver, the single-ended LNA device includes a transformer-based mode selector 830 instead of an attenuator, and under the control of the signal processor 810, it selects the mode based on the single-ended signal RF. IN The input power level will be used to apply the first control signal output by the control circuit 820 to the N+1 switches (SW0, SW1...SW1) in the mode selector 830. N The switches 81-0, 81-1, ..., 81-N are used to selectively control their on / off switching. The first control signal can be applied to each of the N+1 switches (SW0, SW1, ..., SW2). N )N+1 switch control signals 81-0, 81-1...81-1. Furthermore, under the control of the signal processor 810, based on the single-ended signal RF IN The input power level will be used to apply the second control signal output by the control circuit 820 to the N variable loads (ZL1...ZL) in the mode selector 630. N )82-1……82-N, to allow for variable impedance control. The second control signal can be applied to each of the N variable loads (ZL1……ZL) respectively. N N load control signals in 82-1……82-N, each with variable impedance control.

[0067] Variable load (ZL1...ZL) N The impedance control range of 82-1...82-N and the controllable input power level range in the receiver can be determined according to... Figure 8 The transformers (TF0, TF1...TF1) included in the mode selector 830 N The number of 811-0, 811-1...811-N and the variable loads (ZL1...ZL) N It is determined by at least one of the impedance values ​​of 82-1……82-N.

[0068] In this disclosure, the signal processor 810 can control the operation of the control circuit 820 that outputs the first control signal, so that the transformer (TF0, TF1...TF) N The number of transformers operating in 811-0, 811-1...811-N and the single-ended signal RF IN The input power level increases proportionally. For example, switches (SW2...SW) NThe number of switches in 81-2...81-N that are switched to the on state can be increased / changed proportionally to the input power level (or changed according to the operating mode of the mode selector 830).

[0069] Furthermore, in this disclosure, the signal processor 810 is based on a single-ended signal RF. IN The operation of the control circuit 820, which controls the output of a second control signal, is determined by the input power level. For example, the signal processor 810 can variably control the impedance of a variable load connected to the output of a transformer (TF) operating in the mode selector 830 to maintain linearity within the receiving operating range (Rx dynamic range) according to the input power level. In this case, the variable load (ZL1…ZL…) N The impedance of each of the 82-1…82-N can be controlled to have different impedance values. As an optional embodiment, variable control is used for each variable load (ZL1…ZL…). N The impedance settings for 82-1…82-N can be pre-stored in the receiver as tabular information and used. The variable impedance control setting can be set according to the single-ended signal RF. IN The input power level maintains linearity within the receiver operating range (Rx dynamic range).

[0070] Based on single-ended signal RF IN Based on the input power level, the mode selector 830 can operate in three modes: a low-power mode (within a narrow input power level range), a medium-power mode (within a medium input power level range), and a high-power mode (within a wide input power level range). The low-power, medium-power, and high-power modes can be distinguished by a preset threshold or reference value in the receiver based on the input power level. Alternatively, the receiver can receive the threshold or reference value for classifying the operating mode from the base station via higher-layer signaling, or determine the threshold or reference value through configuration information stored in the receiver.

[0071] Figure 9a , Figure 9b and Figure 9c An embodiment of the present disclosure is shown having Figure 8 The operation of a single-ended LNA device in a receiver structure. Figure 9a , Figure 9b and Figure 9c In the example, the single-ended LNA device has the same characteristics as... Figure 8 The single-ended LNA device has the same configuration.

[0072] Figure 9a The following is illustrated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure: Figure 8 An example of the operation of a single-ended LNA device when the mode selector 830 is operating in low-power mode.

[0073] Figure 8 The signal processor 810 in the receiver identifies single-ended signals (RF). IN The input power level of 91, and as Figure 9a As shown, when the input power level is detected to correspond to a low power mode, the signal processor 810 sends signals to switches SW0, SW1...SW2 via the control circuit 820. N Output a first control signal, which causes switches SW0, SW1...SW to... N Switch SW0 (901) is turned on, while the other switches SW1...SW1 are turned on. N Turn off, so that transformers TF0, TF1...TF N A single-ended signal RF is directly applied in the middle IN Transformer TF0 is working, while other transformers TF1...TF N Not working. Figure 9a In the example, the single-ended signal RF IN The signal is converted into a differential signal by transformer TF0. The differential signal is then amplified by amplifiers 821, 822, etc., before being output. Figure 9a In the example, for ease of description, the operation of this disclosure is in low-power mode with only one transformer TF0 operating while the remaining transformers TF1...TF2 are operating. N The example shown is that the transformer is not in operation, but it can also be controlled to make at least one transformer, including transformer TF0, TF1, etc., operate in low-power mode. In low-power mode, the number of operating transformers of the mode selector 830 can be preset.

[0074] Figure 9b The following is illustrated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure: Figure 8 Example of operation of a single-ended LNA device when the mode selector 80 is operating in medium power mode.

[0075] Figure 8 The signal processor 810 in the receiver identifies single-ended signals (RF). IN The input power level of 92, and as Figure 9b As shown, when the input power level is detected to correspond to the medium power mode, the signal processor 810 sends signals to switches SW0, SW1...SW2 via the control circuit 820. N Output a first control signal, which causes switches SW0, SW1...SW to... N Switch 902 (SW1) is turned on, while the other switches SW0, SW1...SW are turned on. N Turn off, so that transformers TF0, TF1...TF N A single-ended signal RF is directly applied in the middle INTransformer TF0 and transformer TF1 connected in parallel with transformer TF0 are operating, while other transformers TF2...TF N It does not work. Furthermore, the signal processor 810 outputs a second control signal via the control circuit 620, based on the single-ended signal RF. IN The input power level of 92 is for the variable load ZL1...ZL N The impedance of the variable load ZL1 is variablely controlled. Figure 9b In the example, the single-ended signal RF IN A portion of 92 is allocated to transformer TF1 and variable load ZL1. Figure 9b In the middle, single-ended signal (RF) IN The signal is converted into a differential signal by transformer TF0. The differential signal is then amplified and output by amplifiers 821, 822, etc. Figure 9b In the example, for ease of description, the operation of this disclosure is in medium power mode with only two transformers TF0 and TF1 operating while the remaining transformers TF2...TF1 are operating. N The example shown is that the transformer is not in operation, but it can also be controlled to make multiple transformers, including transformers TF0 and TF1, operate in medium power mode. In medium power mode, the number of operating transformers of the mode selector 830 can be preset.

[0076] Figure 9c The following is illustrated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure: Figure 8 An example of the operation of a single-ended LNA device when the mode selector 630 is operating in high-power mode.

[0077] Figure 8 The signal processor 810 in the receiver identifies single-ended signals (RF). IN The input power level is 93, and as Figure 9c As shown in the example, when the input power level is detected to correspond to a high power mode, the signal processor 810 sends signals to switches SW0, SW1...SW2 via the control circuit 820. N Output a first control signal, which causes switches SW0, SW1...SW to... N The remaining switches SW1...SW, excluding switch SW0, are... N 903 is fully activated so that all transformers TF0, TF1...TF are activated. N In addition, the signal processor 810 outputs a second control signal through the control circuit 820 to control the single-ended signal (RF). IN The input power level of 93 is for the variable load ZL1...ZL N The impedance can be variably controlled. Figure 9c In the example, single-ended signal (RF) INA portion of 93 is allocated to transformer TF1...TF in mode selector 930. N and variable load ZL1……ZL N In Figure 9C, a single-ended signal (RF) IN )93 is converted into a differential signal by transformer TF0. The differential signal is amplified by amplifiers 821, 822... and then output. Figure 9c In the example, for ease of description, the operation of this disclosure is based on all transformers TF0, TF1...TF in high power mode. N The following explanation uses an example of operation, but it can also be controlled so that some transformers do not operate in high-power mode. In high-power mode, the number of operating transformers in the mode selector 830 can be preset.

[0078] The single-ended LNA device proposed in the above embodiments of this disclosure can be included in a receiver that receives RF signals. Furthermore, the single-ended LNA device proposed in the embodiments of this disclosure can be included in the RF chip of the receiver.

[0079] As described above, the receiver using an LNA device according to embodiments of this disclosure does not use an attenuator, thus avoiding additional losses due to the use of an attenuator and preventing a reduction in the receiving operating range due to an increase in the noise figure (NF). Furthermore, it prevents a reduction in the receiving operating range caused by signal distortion due to the use of an attenuator and improves the linearity of the LNA device. Additionally, when the gain of the LNA device is controlled by controlling a variable load, changes in the amplifier's gain characteristics are prevented.

[0080] Figure 10a and Figure 10b This illustrates the effect of expanding the receiving operating range in a receiver using an LNA device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0081] exist Figure 10a In the text, number 1001 indicates the use of... Figure 3a In the example, the attenuator is connected to the receiver of a single-ended LNA device at the front end of the amplifier, indicating the receiving operating range. The reference numeral 1002 indicates that... Figure 6 and Figure 8 The present disclosure describes the receiving operating range in a receiver using a single-ended LNA device that incorporates a transformer-based mode selector instead of an attenuator. According to this disclosure, since no additional loss is incurred due to the use of an attenuator, the reduction in receiving operating range due to increased noise figure (NF) can be prevented, and the receiving operating range in the receiver can be expanded.

[0082] exist Figure 10b In the text, the number 1011 indicates the use of... Figure 4aIn the example, the attenuator is connected to the receiver of a single-ended LNA device at the back end of the amplifier, indicating the receiving operating range. The reference numeral 1002 indicates that... Figure 6 and Figure 8 The present disclosure describes the receiving operating range in receivers using single-ended LNA devices that incorporate a transformer-based mode selector instead of an attenuator. According to this disclosure, the reduction in receiving operating range due to signal distortion caused by the use of attenuators can be prevented, and the linearity of the receiving operating range in receivers using LNA devices can be improved.

[0083] Figure 11a and Figure 11b The amplifier gain characteristic retention effect in a receiver using an LNA device according to an embodiment of this disclosure is illustrated.

[0084] exist Figure 11a In the text, the number 1101 indicates that it is in use. Figure 5a In the receiver of the single-ended LNA device with attenuator in the example, when the gain of the LNA device (amplifier) ​​is controlled, the gain characteristic of the LNA device (amplifier) ​​does not remain constant but changes, as shown by reference numerals 1101, 1102, and 1103. Reference numeral 1102 indicates that according to Figure 6 and Figure 8 The embodiments of this disclosure utilize the gain characteristics of a receiver in a single-ended LNA device that includes a transformer-based mode selector instead of an attenuator. According to this disclosure, it can be observed that when the gain of the LNA device is controlled by controlling a variable load within the LNA device, the amplifier's gain characteristics remain constant.

[0085] Figure 12a , Figure 12b and Figure 12c Simulation results are shown of adjusting the input power level transmitted from the LNA device to the amplifier via a mode selector according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0086] Figure 12a , Figure 12b and Figure 12c It shows in Figure 6 In a single-ended LNA device with N=2, the three transformers TF0, TF1, and TF2 in the mode selector 630 are connected in parallel, and the three switches SW0, SW1, and SW2 are connected between the transformers TF0, TF1, and TF2. The simulation results of the input and output ports of transformer (TF0) 611-0 in the single-ended LNA device using S-parameters are obtained when the switches SW0, SW1, and SW2 are switched on and off.

[0087] Figure 12a The S value is shown when each switch SW0, SW1, and SW2 is turned on. 11(i.e., the ratio of the incident voltage to the reflected voltage at the input port), Figure 12b Simulation results of S 22 (i.e., the ratio of the incident voltage to the reflected voltage at the input port), Figure 12c Simulation results of S 21 (i.e., the ratio of the incident voltage to the reflected voltage at the input port), 11 represents the voltage reflection coefficient of the input port, S 22 represents the voltage reflection coefficient of the output port. In impedance matching of the LNA device, when the voltage reflection coefficient of the input port and the voltage reflection coefficient of the output port change little, it can be considered that the input / output impedance matching is stable. Referring to Figure 12a and Figure 12b , it can be found that the input / output impedance matching is stable because the voltage reflection coefficients of the input port and the output port fluctuate little. In addition, referring to Figure 12c , it can be found that the voltage ratio S 21 can be attenuated to a level of about 3 to 5 dB. Therefore, according to the present disclosure, by switching control of the mode selector 630, the input power level transmitted from the LNA device to the amplifier can be stably controlled.

[0088] The embodiments herein are provided for better understanding of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure should not be limited thereto. It should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes in form or details can be made to the embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure defined by the appended claims. In addition, the embodiments can be combined to implement.

Claims

1. A receiver for receiving a radio frequency (RF) signal in a wireless communication system, comprising: a low noise amplifier (LNA) device configured to convert and output the RF signal into a differential signal, a portion of the RF signal being distributed to an input of at least one transformer through a signal path of at least one switch based on a first control signal, and an impedance of at least one variable load connected to an output of the at least one transformer being controlled based on a second control signal; a control circuit configured to output at least one of the first control signal and the second control signal to the LNA device; and a signal processor configured to apply the RF signal to the LNA device and control the control circuit to apply at least one of the first control signal and the second control signal to the LNA device based on an input power level of the RF signal, wherein the first control signal controls the LNA device such that the portion of the RF signal is distributed to the at least one transformer among a plurality of transformers of the LNA device, and the second control signal variably controls the impedance of the at least one variable load among a plurality of variable loads of the LNA device. The LNA device includes a mode selector whose operation mode is selected by the signal processor based on the control of the input power level of the RF signal, and the mode selector includes:

2. The receiver of claim 1, wherein, the plurality of transformers connected in parallel to an input of the RF signal; a plurality of switches connected to inputs of the plurality of transformers; and the plurality of variable loads connected to outputs of the plurality of transformers except for a first transformer to which the RF signal is directly applied. A range of input power levels controllable within a reception operating range of the receiver and a range of impedances of the plurality of variable loads are determined according to at least one of a number of the plurality of transformers and a size of the impedances of the plurality of variable loads.

3. The receiver of claim 2, wherein, The plurality of variable loads for variably controlling the impedances are set such that linearity is maintained within the reception operating range according to the input power level of the RF signal.

4. The receiver of claim 3, wherein, The signal processor is further configured to control the control circuit outputting the first control signal such that a number of the at least one transformer operating among the plurality of transformers is proportionally increased according to the input power level of the RF signal.

5. The receiver of claim 2, wherein, The LNA device includes a mode selector whose operation mode is selected by the signal processor based on the control of the input power level of the RF signal, and the mode selector includes:

6. The receiver of claim 1, wherein, at least two transformers connected in series to an input of the RF signal and a plurality of transformers connected in parallel to a rear stage of the at least two transformers; a plurality of switches connected to inputs of the plurality of transformers; and the plurality of variable loads connected to outputs of the plurality of transformers except for a first transformer to which the RF signal is directly applied. ​ 7. The receiver of claim 6, wherein, The input power level range controllable within the receiving operating range of the receiver and the impedance range of the plurality of variable loads are determined according to at least one of the number of the plurality of transformers and the impedance size of the plurality of variable loads.

8. The receiver of claim 7, wherein, The setting values of the plurality of variable loads for variable control of impedance are set so that linearity is maintained within the receiving operating range according to the input power level of the RF signal.

9. The receiver of claim 6, wherein, The signal processor is further configured to control operation of the control circuit outputting the first control signal so that the number of the at least one transformer operating in the plurality of transformers is increased in proportion to the input power level of the RF signal.

10. The receiver of claim 6, wherein, The LNA device is a single-ended LNA device configured to receive a single-ended RF signal and output the differential signal.

11. A radio frequency (RF) chip for receiving an RF signal in a wireless communication system, comprising: a low noise amplifier (LNA) device configured to convert a radio frequency (RF) signal into a differential signal and output, a portion of the RF signal being distributed to an input of at least one transformer through a signal path of at least one switch based on a first control signal, and an impedance of at least one variable load connected to an output of the at least one transformer being controlled based on a second control signal; a control circuit configured to output at least one of the first control signal and the second control signal to the LNA device; and a signal processor configured to apply the RF signal to the LNA device and control the control circuit to apply at least one of the first control signal and the second control signal to the LNA device based on an input power level of the RF signal, wherein the first control signal controls the LNA device so that the portion of the RF signal is distributed to the at least one transformer in a plurality of transformers of the LNA device, and the second control signal variable controls an impedance of the at least one variable load in a plurality of variable loads of the LNA device.

12. The RF chip of claim 11, wherein, The LNA device includes a mode selector whose operating mode is selected by the signal processor based on control of the input power level of the RF signal, and the mode selector includes: the plurality of transformers connected in parallel to an input of the RF signal; a plurality of switches connected to inputs of the plurality of transformers; and the plurality of variable loads connected to outputs of the plurality of transformers except for a first transformer to which the RF signal is directly applied.

13. The RF chip of claim 12, wherein, The input power level range controllable within the receiving operating range of the RF chip and the impedance range of the plurality of variable loads are determined according to at least one of the number of the plurality of transformers and the impedance size of the plurality of variable loads, wherein the setting values of the plurality of variable loads for variable control of impedance are set so that linearity is maintained within the receiving operating range according to the input power level of the RF signal, The signal processor is further configured to control the operation of the control circuit outputting the first control signal such that the number of the at least one transformer in operation among the plurality of transformers is increased in proportion to the input power level of the RF signal, and The LNA device is a single-ended LNA device configured to receive a single-ended RF signal and output the differential signal.

14. The RF chip of claim 11, wherein, The LNA device includes a mode selector whose operation mode is selected by the signal processor based on the control of the input power level of the RF signal, and the mode selector includes: at least two transformers connected in series with the input end of the RF signal and a plurality of transformers connected in parallel with the latter stage of the at least two transformers; a plurality of switches connected to the input end of the plurality of transformers; and the plurality of variable loads connected to the output end of the remaining transformers among the plurality of transformers except for a first transformer to which the RF signal is directly applied.

15. The RF chip of claim 14, wherein, The input power level range controllable within the reception operation range of the RF chip and the impedance range of the plurality of variable loads are determined according to at least one of the number of the plurality of transformers and the impedance size of the plurality of variable loads, wherein the set value of the plurality of variable loads for variable control of impedance is set such that linearity is maintained within the reception operation range according to the input power level of the RF signal, The signal processor is further configured to control the operation of the control circuit outputting the first control signal such that the number of the at least one transformer in operation among the plurality of transformers is increased in proportion to the input power level of the RF signal, and The LNA device is a single-ended LNA device configured to receive a single-ended RF signal and output the differential signal.

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