Antenna device, method of operating antenna device, and method of manufacturing antenna device

Abstract

An antenna apparatus comprising: a plurality of antenna modules, each antenna module comprising one or more antenna units, each of the one or more antenna units comprising an antenna element and an integrated circuit, the integrated circuit comprising: a first low noise amplifier (LNA), a first receiver configured to receive a first input signal from the antenna element via a first input and to provide a first output signal to the phase shifter; a second LNA configured to receive a second input signal from the antenna element via a second input and to provide a second output signal to the phase shifter, where the first input signal and the second input signal have different polarizations; and a polarization control circuit configured to selectively switch at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA to an on-state or an off-state in which the input and output impedances are controlled in each state. A corresponding method of operating an antenna arrangement and a method of manufacturing an antenna arrangement are also disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an antenna device for radio frequency (RF) signals, a method of operating the antenna device, and a method of manufacturing the antenna device. Background Art

[0002] It is known to provide a low noise amplifier (LNA) to amplify a received radio frequency (RF) signal. Existing antenna devices typically include a low noise amplifier at a 1:1 ratio for each antenna element. The LNA is centered in the antenna module, and the antenna element is part of the antenna module. This means that, on the RF signal path, the antenna RF input is separated from the LNA by a large distance. As a result, the pre-amplification loss of the RF signal is high. It is desirable to reduce the pre-amplification loss while also providing low noise amplification.

[0003] US2020 / 0303833 (Ueda) uses multiple LNAs and provides polarization switching but requires additional matching components. US5,659,322 (Caille) and US5,270,719 (Roth) use a polarization switch at the LNA output. It would be advantageous to not require a separate matching component and a polarization switch with power requirements.

[0004] JP2000022440 (Yagi Antenna) discloses a circuit in which the gain of one amplifier is set relative to another to provide a desired wave / interference wave ratio downstream of the other amplifier.

[0005] DE29703243U (Chen) discloses a circuit having multiple LNAs that can be switched on and off, but does not understand the effect of not controlling its output impedance.

[0006] It is in this context that the present invention has been conceived. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an integrated circuit including a first low noise amplifier LNA configured to receive a first input signal from an antenna element via a first input and provide a first output signal to a phase shifter. The integrated circuit further includes a second LNA configured to receive a second input signal from the antenna element via a second input and provide a second output signal to the phase shifter. The first input signal and the second input signal have different polarizations. The integrated circuit further includes a polarization control circuit configured to selectively switch at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA to an on state or an off state.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, an antenna device is provided, comprising: a plurality of antenna modules, each antenna module including one or more antenna elements, each of the one or more antenna elements including an antenna element and an integrated circuit. The integrated circuit includes a first low-noise amplifier (LNA) configured to receive a first input signal from the antenna element via a first input and provide a first output signal to a phase shifter. The integrated circuit also includes a second LNA configured to receive a second input signal from the antenna element via a second input and provide a second output signal to the phase shifter. The first input signal and the second input signal have different polarizations. The integrated circuit further includes a polarization control circuit configured to selectively switch at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA to an on state or an off state.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for operating an integrated circuit is provided, the integrated circuit including a first LNA, a second LNA, and a phase shifter. The method includes the first LNA receiving a first input signal from an antenna element via a first input. The method further includes the second LNA receiving a second input signal from the antenna element via a second input. The first input signal and the second input signal have different polarizations. The method includes receiving a polarization control signal. The method includes selectively switching at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA to an on state or an off state depending on the polarization control signal. The method includes the first LNA providing a first output signal to the phase shifter and / or the second LNA providing a second output signal to the phase shifter.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method of operating an antenna device is provided. The antenna device includes: a plurality of antenna modules, each antenna module including one or more antenna elements, each of the one or more antenna elements including an antenna element and an integrated circuit. The integrated circuit includes a first low-noise amplifier (LNA), a second LNA, and a phase shifter. The method includes the first LNA receiving a first input signal from the antenna element via a first input. The method includes the second LNA receiving a second input signal from the antenna element via a second input. The first input signal and the second input signal have different polarizations. The method includes receiving a polarization control signal. The method includes selectively switching at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA to an on state or an off state depending on the polarization control signal. The method includes the first LNA providing a first output signal to the phase shifter and / or the second LNA providing a second output signal to the phase shifter.

[0011] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for manufacturing an integrated circuit is provided, the integrated circuit including a first low-noise amplifier (LNA), a second LNA, and a phase shifter. The method includes providing the integrated circuit by providing a first low-noise amplifier (LNA), the first LNA being configured to receive a first input signal from an antenna element via a first input and to provide a first output signal to the phase shifter. The method of providing the integrated circuit further includes providing a second LNA, the second LNA being configured to receive a second input signal from an antenna element via a second input and to provide a second output signal to the phase shifter. The first input signal and the second input signal have different polarizations. The method of providing the integrated circuit includes providing a polarization control circuit configured to selectively switch at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA to an on state or an off state.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method of manufacturing an antenna device is provided. The method includes providing a plurality of antenna modules, each antenna module including one or more antenna elements. The method includes providing one or more antenna elements, each of the one or more antenna elements including an antenna element and an integrated circuit. The method includes providing an antenna element and an integrated circuit. The method of providing the integrated circuit includes providing a first low-noise amplifier (LNA), the first LNA being configured to receive a first input signal from an antenna element via a first input and to provide a first output signal to a phase shifter. The method of providing the integrated circuit includes providing a second LNA, the second LNA being configured to receive a second input signal from an antenna element via a second input and to provide a second output signal to a phase shifter. The first input signal and the second input signal have different polarizations. The method of providing the integrated circuit includes providing a polarization control circuit, the polarization control circuit being configured to selectively switch at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA to an on state or an off state.

[0013] This invention relates to an electronic package in which each antenna element provides an input to more than one LNA. By providing multiple LNAs with different inputs, polarization can be switched without using physical switching elements. This reduces the overall loss in the antenna arrangement by reducing switching losses. Specifically, the LNAs can be selectively switched to provide the desired signal to a phase shifter after low-noise amplification. Alternatively, two LNAs can be used simultaneously to support polarization diversity in multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems.

[0014] Advantageously, by providing a single-channel device using multiple LNAs (Low Noise Amplifiers), with the LNAs placed close to the antenna feed point of each antenna element, RF losses between the antenna feed point and the LNA input are eliminated or at least reduced. Furthermore, this arrangement significantly reduces the overall size of the array and lowers its cost by providing multiple LNA devices in a single package.

[0015] Advantageously, switching the LNA associated with undesirable polarization to the off state reduces the overall power consumption of the antenna assembly. The electronic package has been custom-designed to maximize the noise performance of each LNA.

[0016] Prior art in this field is designed to reduce the size of electronic packages by integrating components and functions. In contrast, this invention contradicts the accepted teachings in the field of wireless communication electronics regarding the integration of components and functions. Instead, the claimed invention is designed to intentionally decompose components and functions to improve preamplification losses caused by long signal paths to the LNA.

[0017] Advantageously, the overall size of the antenna array including the electronic package of the present invention is reduced because the LNA arranged on the electronic components allows the antenna elements to be placed closer together within the array. The claimed invention uses a single-channel arrangement instead of a 4-channel configuration.

[0018] The first LNA and the second LNA amplify the first input signal and / or the second input signal received from the antenna element without introducing a significant amount of noise into the signal.

[0019] Typically, the first LNA and the second LNA can be LNAs with characteristics suitable for the applications of this invention. Specifically, the first LNA and the second LNA can be independently controllable. The input impedance and output impedance of the first LNA and the second LNA can be controlled. The first LNA and the second LNA can have input impedance and output impedance within a given range or at specific values, as described below. The first LNA and the second LNA can be two parallel input LNA blocks. The first LNA and the second LNA can be selected to operate at a target frequency (e.g., RF signals greater than 10 GHz). In some examples, at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA can include silicon germanium (SiGe) transistor technology. Advantageously, LNAs using SiGe offer a trade-off between performance (gain and noise figure at millimeter-wave frequencies), power consumption, integration capability, size, and cost. However, it should be understood that other LNA technologies, including but not limited to gallium arsenide (GaAs), gallium nitride (GaN), complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS), and bipolar complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (BiCMOS), can be used equally depending on the parameters required by the application.

[0020] Typically, the first LNA and the second LNA can operate in response to a control signal to switch the LNA to the on state and the off state (e.g., switch between the on state and the off state) by switching the power rail of the respective LNA between the operating voltage (on state) and ground (off state).

[0021] Typically, the polarization control circuit can be configured (e.g., selectively) to switch the first and second LNAs to an on or off state and control the output impedance of the respective LNAs. Generally, operating the antenna device may include controlling the output impedance of the first and second LNAs and (e.g., selectively) switching the states of the first and second LNAs simultaneously based on a polarization control signal. When one of the first and second LNAs can be switched to an off state, the output impedance of the respective LNA can be set to a high impedance. When one of the first and second LNAs can be switched to an on state, the output impedance of the respective LNA can be set to a low impedance.

[0022] The first and second LNAs can have noise figures of less than 2.5 dB, less than 2.25 dB, or less than 2 dB. Advantageously, using LNAs with the aforementioned noise figures allows a dual LNA architecture to function while reducing losses in the device.

[0023] Another benefit is that by turning off unused LNAs, the overall power consumption of the system is reduced. Furthermore, the method of this invention produces a lower system noise figure than existing technologies because there are no switching losses before or after the LNA. Specifically, reducing (or preventing) losses before the LNA is particularly important so that the strongest and most accurate signal is provided to the LNA for amplification.

[0024] The first LNA and the second LNA can share some components. The first LNA and the second LNA can also be separate, independent components.

[0025] Typically, the first LNA and the second LNA are connected in parallel.

[0026] Typically, the outputs of the first LNA and the second LNA are directly connected together. Alternatively, the outputs of the first and second LNAs are directly connected to each other and then to the input of the phase shifter. Because of the change in output impedance between the off and on states, no additional matching is required. Avoiding the use of additional components improves sensitivity and reduces power consumption.

[0027] Typically, no polarization switch is connected to the output of the first or second LNA. Polarization switching is achieved by turning the LNAs on and off and changing their output impedance, without the need for an additional polarization switch. Avoiding the use of additional components can improve sensitivity and reduce power consumption.

[0028] Typically, at least one of the first and second input signals is a radio frequency (RF) input signal from an antenna element. The antenna element typically receives the RF input signal from a transmitter (e.g., a satellite) with which it communicates. At least one of the first and second input signals may have a frequency greater than 10 GHz, greater than 15 GHz, or greater than 20 GHz.

[0029] Typically, the first input signal has a first polarization and the second input signal has a second polarization. The first polarization can be linear, circular, or elliptical polarization in a first direction. The second polarization can be linear, circular, or elliptical polarization in a second direction, different from the first direction. The polarization types of the first and second polarizations can generally depend on the type of communication the antenna device is participating in. In one example, in satellite communication, the first polarization can be left-hand circular circular polarization (LHCP) and the second polarization can be right-hand circular circular polarization (RHCP). In another example, in 5G communication, the two polarizations can be vertical linear polarization or horizontal linear polarization.

[0030] Typically, the first input and the second input are input pins on the IC, which are configured to receive RF signals with first polarization and second polarization, respectively.

[0031] The first output signal and the second output signal can be RF output signals from the first LNA and the second LNA, respectively. The first output signal and the second output signal have the same polarization as their respective input signals. The first output signal and the second output signal typically have increased power compared to their respective input signals.

[0032] The first and second LNAs can be integrated with the polarization control circuitry and the phase shifter on the same semiconductor die. The phase shifter can be a passive or active phase shifter. The first and second LNAs can be integrated with MEMS phase shifters. Advantageously, active phase shifters offer better control and repeatability than passive phase shifters.

[0033] Typically, when the LNA is on, it receives its corresponding input signal from the antenna element and amplifies it to provide the output to the phase shifter. Conversely, when the LNA is off, it receives its corresponding input signal from the antenna element and attenuates it. This attenuation may be high enough that the output signal from the off LNA is smaller than that from the on LNA. Therefore, the contribution of the output signal from the off LNA to the input signal of the phase shifter may be significantly less than that from the on LNA, so the input signal of the phase shifter is primarily dominated by the signal from the on LNA.

[0034] Typically, phase shifters are configured (usually individually and selectively) to adjust the phase of electromagnetic (typically RF) signals propagating into or out of antenna elements on signal conductors (e.g., for beam steering).

[0035] During multiple-input single-output (MISO) communication, only the first output signal or the second output signal, and therefore only one polarization, can be provided to the phase shifter. During multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) communication, both the first and second output signals can be provided to the phase shifter.

[0036] LNAs and antenna elements can have the same spacing.

[0037] The IC may include a synthesizer positioned downstream or after the first and second LNAs. Typically, the synthesizer combines the output signals from the LNAs into a single input signal for the phase shifter.

[0038] One method of operating the antenna device is to operate the antenna device in receiving mode.

[0039] Antenna elements may include multiple antenna ports (output ports) for providing RF input signals to a corresponding LNA. Antenna elements may be positioned on an antenna board. Each port of the antenna element may correspond to a different polarity. Antenna elements may include a first antenna port and a second antenna port. The first and second antenna elements may be isolated from each other. Antenna elements may be dual-polarized. Antenna arrangements may be configured to isolate the two antenna ports from each other.

[0040] A first antenna port providing a first input signal to a first LNA may be located on a first side of the antenna element. A second antenna port providing a second input signal to a second LNA may be located on a second side of the antenna element. The first and second sides of the antenna element may be perpendicular to each other. The first and second sides of the antenna element may be adjacent to each other. The antenna element may be rectangular (e.g., square or elongated). For example, the antenna element may be part of a patch antenna. The antenna element may include at least a metal layer and a parallel ground layer, typically with a dielectric material between them.

[0041] Typically, a first RF input signal is conducted from a first antenna port of an antenna element to a first LNA via a first signal conductor. Typically, a second RF input signal is conducted from a second antenna port of an antenna element to a second LNA via a second signal conductor. Each signal conductor may include a first portion and a second portion. The first portion may be a linear portion of the signal conductor extending from a corresponding antenna port. The first portion of the first signal conductor and the first portion of the second signal conductor may be orthogonal to each other. The second portion may also be a linear portion of the signal conductor extending from a corresponding input pin. The second portion of the first signal conductor and the second portion of the second signal conductor may be orthogonal to each other.

[0042] Advantageously, when the antenna ports are perpendicular to each other, the RF signals of those antenna ports are isolated from each other.

[0043] The antenna device may include one or more dual-polarized microstrip patch antenna elements. The antenna device may include one or more edge-fed patch antennas. However, other types of antennas may be used, including aperture-fed or probe-fed patch antennas.

[0044] The first input signal of the first LNA can be provided by a first antenna element. The second input signal of the second LNA can be provided by a second antenna element. Each of the first and second antenna elements can be configured to receive a single RF signal. The first antenna element can be configured to receive an RF signal with a first polarization. The second antenna element can be configured to receive an RF signal with a second polarization, wherein the first polarization is different from the second polarization.

[0045] Typically, the polarization control circuitry is located on an integrated circuit after the first and second LNAs. Methods of manufacturing an antenna device may include providing polarization control circuitry located on an integrated circuit after the first and second LNAs.

[0046] Typically, the polarization control circuit determines whether both the first and second output signals are provided to the phase shifter, or only the first or only the second output signal is provided to the phase shifter. By determining which output signals (i.e., amplified input signals) from the LNA are provided to the phase shifter, the polarization control circuit determines which polarization or polarizations are provided to the phase shifter.

[0047] Typically, a polarization control circuit is a control circuit in which control signals are selectively transmitted to the first LNA and the second LNA. The control signals typically switch the first LNA and the second LNA to an on or off state. The polarization control circuit does not usually need to be a physical switch.

[0048] Polarization control circuitry can be distributed across multiple components of an IC. In some examples, polarization control circuitry may include one or more controllers and one or more control lines along which control signals (e.g., for controlling an LNA) are transmitted.

[0049] The polarization control circuit can be located after the LNA in the signal path. The polarization control circuit can be located after the LNA in the signal path of the first input signal and / or the second input signal. The polarization control circuit can be located downstream of the LNA.

[0050] Beamforming can be performed using a phase shifter for each antenna element, with the phase shifter positioned after the first and second LNAs on the integrated circuit.

[0051] Advantageously, placing the polarization control circuit after the LNA (e.g., downstream of the LNA) reduces signal loss of the input signal before it is amplified from the antenna elements.

[0052] The first input can be directly connected to the first LNA and the second input can be directly connected to the second LNA. A method of manufacturing the antenna device may include directly connecting the first input to the first LNA and directly connecting the second input to the second LNA.

[0053] Typically, the first and second input signals are directly supplied to the first and second LNAs, respectively, without passing through any other component of the IC. The signal path for the first input signal is usually direct from the first input pin to the first LNA. Similarly, the signal path for the second input signal is usually direct from the second input pin to the second LNA. In other words, the IC may not include a switching component located before the LNAs. Therefore, polarization switching is not performed before the LNAs.

[0054] On the signal path of the first input signal from the antenna element to the first LNA, the first switching component may be part of the first LNA. On the signal path of the second input signal from the antenna element to the second LNA, the first switching component may be part of the second LNA. That is, there may be no intermediate switching component on the signal paths of the first and second input signals from the antenna element to their respective LNAs.

[0055] Advantageously, the direct connection between the LNA and the first and second inputs from the antenna element reduces losses due to interference. Advantageously, polarization switching is provided by controlling the LNA rather than by the switching components of the IC.

[0056] Alternatively, the first and second LNAs can be connected to their respective inputs from the antenna element via a network of components. Advantageously, these components can be designed to provide a specific phase shift to the input signal during the preamplification stage. For example, the first and second LNAs can be connected to their respective inputs using a 90-degree combiner that allows the reception of multiple RF signals with different polarizations and the coupling of these multiple RF signals to their respective LNA inputs.

[0057] The antenna device may include a first port and a second port. The first port may have a first polarization to receive a signal with a first linear polarization (e.g., vertical polarization). The second port may have a second polarization to receive a signal with a second linear polarization (e.g., horizontal polarization). The first and second linearly polarized signals may be combined using a network of components (e.g., a synthesizer / coupler, such as a 90-degree mixer) to provide a first input signal and / or a second input signal to a first LNA and a second LNA, respectively. The network of components may be configured to provide the first input signal to the first LNA. The network of components may be configured to provide the second input signal to the second LNA. The network of components may provide either the first or second input to the respective LNA, depending on which output of the network of components is connected to the signal path. The first input signal of the first LNA generated by the network of components may have a first circular polarization (e.g., right-hand circular polarization, RHCP). The second input signal of the second LNA generated by the network of components may have a second circular polarization (e.g., left-hand circular polarization, LHCP).

[0058] It should be understood that other methods exist for generating RHCP or LHCP signals.

[0059] The input impedance of the first LNA (e.g., in an on or off state) can be equal to the input impedance of the second LNA (e.g., in an on or off state). A method of manufacturing an antenna device may include providing a first LNA and a second LNA having equal input impedances, regardless of the state of each LNA.

[0060] The input impedances of the first and second LNAs can be equal when both are in the on and off states.

[0061] Advantageously, the first and second LNAs, having the same input impedance, provide impedance matching for the input impedance of the LNAs when they are in the on and off states.

[0062] The input impedance of the first LNA can be less than 65Ω and the input impedance of the second LNA can be less than 65Ω. A method of manufacturing the antenna device may include providing a first LNA and a second LNA, both having an input impedance of less than 65Ω.

[0063] The input impedance of the first LNA can be less than 55Ω and the input impedance of the second LNA can also be less than 55Ω. Alternatively, the input impedance of the first LNA can be equal to 50Ω and the input impedance of the second LNA can also be equal to 50Ω.

[0064] The input impedances of the first and second LNAs can be selected to provide RF impedance matching with the phase shifter on the IC. Advantageously, this reduces RF signal loss as it is transmitted to the phase shifter.

[0065] The polarization control circuit can be configured to switch one of the first LNA and the second LNA to an on state and the other LNA to an off state, so as to provide a first output signal or a second output signal to the phase shifter at any time. A method of operating the antenna device may include switching one of the first LNA and the second LNA to an on state and the other LNA to an off state, so as to provide a first output signal or a second output signal to the phase shifter at any time.

[0066] Typically, switching between the first and second LNAs involves applying a control signal to the LNA to switch it to the ON state. The LNA in the ON state typically amplifies the corresponding input signal and provides an output signal to the phase shifter. Similarly, switching between the first and second LNAs typically involves applying a control signal to the LNA to switch it to the OFF state. The LNA in the OFF state typically amplifies the corresponding input and does not provide an output signal to the phase shifter. Typically, when either the first or second output signal is provided to the phase shifter at any given time, this is MISO communication.

[0067] Advantageously, the antenna device can switch between polarizations quickly and efficiently while minimizing losses caused by interference on the signal path to the LNA.

[0068] Advantageously, having an LNA in the off state corresponding to the unused polarization reduces interference with the signal corresponding to the used polarization and lowers power consumption.

[0069] The polarization control circuit can be configured to switch both the first LNA and the second LNA to an on state to provide both a first output signal and a second output signal to the phase shifter at any given time. A method of operating the antenna device may include switching both the first LNA and the second LNA to an on state to provide both the first output signal and the second output signal to the phase shifter at any given time.

[0070] Typically, MISO communication occurs when both the first and second output signals are provided to the phase shifter at any given time.

[0071] The ratio of the output impedance of the LNA in the off state to that in the on state can be 10:1. The output impedance of the LNA in the off state can be 500Ω, and the output impedance of the LNA in the on state can be 50Ω. A method of operating the antenna device may include providing a 10:1 ratio of the output impedance of the LNA in the off state to that of the LNA in the on state. A method of operating the antenna device may include providing an output impedance of 500Ω for the LNA in the off state and an output impedance of 50Ω for the LNA in the on state.

[0072] Advantageously, the high ratio of the output impedance of the LNA in the off state to that in the on state effectively isolates the LNA from the circuit.

[0073] The ratio of the output impedance of an LNA in the off state to that in the on state can be greater than 10:1.

[0074] A first LNA can be connected to a first power rail, and a second LNA can be connected to a second power rail. A polarization control circuit can be configured to control the connections to the first and second power rails to selectively switch at least one of the first and second LNAs to an on or off state. A method of operating the antenna device may include controlling the connections to the first and second power rails to selectively switch at least one of the first and second LNAs to an on or off state. A method of manufacturing the antenna device may include connecting the first LNA to the first power rail and the second LNA to the second power rail.

[0075] Typically, the polarization control circuit transmits control signals to the LNA to control the connection of the LNA to the corresponding power rail. Transmitting the control signals may include providing an operating voltage to the LNA's power rail (to switch the LNA to an on state) or providing a ground voltage to the LNA's power rail (to switch the LNA to an off state). For each power rail, either an operating voltage or a ground voltage may be applied. The polarization control circuit may be configured to apply an operating voltage or a ground voltage to a first power rail and a second power rail to selectively switch at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA to an on state or a off state. Typically, when a control signal connects an LNA to the corresponding power rail to which an operating voltage is applied, the corresponding LNA is in an on state. Typically, when a control signal connects an LNA to the corresponding power rail to which a ground voltage is applied, the LNA is in an off state. In some examples, the polarization control circuit may transmit control signals to both the first LNA and the second LNA to connect to their respective power rails, meaning that both the first LNA and the second LNA are in an on state.

[0076] As mentioned above, the output impedance of an LNA differs between its on and off states (e.g., by a factor of 10:1). Typically, the output impedance is higher in the off state than in the on state. Therefore, providing an operating voltage and / or transmitting a control signal to the LNA's power rail can have the dual effect of switching the LNA between on and off states and switching the LNA's output impedance.

[0077] The total number of LNAs that can be individually switched in each antenna element can be greater than the total number of antenna elements in each antenna element. The first and second inputs from the antenna elements can be portions of a continuous conductor (typically opposite ends). Methods of manufacturing the antenna device may include providing a total number of LNAs per antenna element that is greater than the total number of antenna elements in each antenna element. Methods of manufacturing the antenna device may include providing the first and second inputs from the antenna elements on a continuous conductor.

[0078] Advantageously, the number of LNAs provided by each antenna element is greater than the number of antenna elements provided by each antenna element, allowing the LNAs to be positioned closer to the antenna elements in the signal path to reduce losses, while also providing polarization switching functionality before the phase shifter.

[0079] Typically, each antenna element has an integer number (greater than 1) of individually switchable LNAs. The integer can be 2. The integer can be greater than 2. The integer can be 3. The integer can be 4.

[0080] Typically, the ratio of LNA to antenna elements is greater than 1:1. The ratio can be 2:1. The ratio can be greater than 2:1. The ratio can be 4:1.

[0081] The first and second output signals can be provided to the phase shifter via a synthesizer circuit. That is, both the first and second LNAs can amplify their respective first and second input signals, each with a different polarization. The output signals of the first and second LNAs can be combined so that a single RF signal is provided to the phase shifter. For example, the synthesizer circuit could be a Wilkinson power synthesizer.

[0082] Alternatively, the first and second output signals can be directly provided to the phase shifter. Typically, the output of each LNA is directly connected to the phase shifter. In this way, there are no electronic components between the output of each LNA and the phase shifter.

[0083] The first and second inputs from the antenna elements can be formed on a continuous conductor. Advantageously, this reduces signal loss within the antenna device.

[0084] The polarization control circuit can be configured to alternately switch the first LNA and the second LNA to the ON state while switching another LNA to the OFF state. The first LNA and the second LNA can alternately switch on during each switching period. The maximum switching period can be 100 microseconds. Operating the antenna device can include alternately switching the first LNA and the second LNA to the ON state while switching another LNA to the OFF state. Operating the antenna device can also include alternately switching the first LNA and the second LNA on during each switching period. The maximum switching period can be 100 microseconds.

[0085] Typically, polarization control circuitry alternately switches a first LNA and a second LNA to the ON state. When one LNA is switched to the ON state, the other LNA is OFF. This may be referred to herein as "polarization switching." Polarization switching may involve alternately applying an operating voltage and a ground voltage to each power rail. Each LNA can be switched to the ON state during a switching period. At the end of the switching period, the polarization control circuitry typically provides a control signal to the other LNA that was previously OFF, thereby switching that LNA to the ON state. This provides switching between a first polarization and a second polarization. The polarization control circuitry may induce polarization while scanning the input RF signal.

[0086] The maximum handover period can be 80 microseconds, 60 microseconds, or 50 microseconds. Alternatively, the maximum handover period can be 120 microseconds, 150 microseconds, or 175 microseconds.

[0087] Depending on the formation of a communication link between the antenna device and the transmitter and / or receiver, at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA can be selectively switched. Depending on the transmission of RF signals through the antenna device, at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA can be selectively switched. A method of operating the antenna device may include selectively switching at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA depending on the formation of a communication link between the antenna device and the transmitter and / or receiver. A method of operating the antenna device may include selectively switching at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA depending on the transmission of RF signals through the antenna device.

[0088] Advantageously, the IC can switch polarization as needed when creating a new communication link between its antenna device and the transmitter and / or receiver.

[0089] Typically, the formation of a communication link refers to the establishment of a new wireless communication connection between an antenna device and a transmitter and / or receiver.

[0090] Advantageously, the IC switches polarization as needed when it receives an RF signal and transmits the received RF signal through the antenna device.

[0091] In other words, at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA can be switched to the on state when a new communication link is created and / or the antenna device receives an RF signal.

[0092] The track of the first input on the integrated circuit may be orthogonal to the track of the second input on the integrated circuit. Each of the first and second inputs may be located between a first ground portion and a second ground portion on the integrated circuit. A method of manufacturing an antenna device may include providing a track of the first input on the integrated circuit, which is orthogonal to the track of the second input on the integrated circuit. A method of manufacturing an antenna device may include providing each of the first and second inputs between a first ground portion and a second ground portion on the integrated circuit.

[0093] Typically, the first input pin and the second input pin are orthogonal to each other.

[0094] Advantageously, by setting the tracks of the first input and the second input to be perpendicular to each other, the isolation of the input pins is increased, thereby reducing interference and loss.

[0095] Collaboratively, the integrated circuit and the antenna element can each be rectangular (e.g., square or rectangular), and the first and second antenna ports of the antenna element are located on adjacent orthogonal sides of the antenna element and connected to the first and second inputs of the integrated circuit, which are also located on adjacent orthogonal sides of the integrated circuit. Conductors extending between the antenna ports and the inputs of the integrated circuit can each include a single right-angle bend. The antenna element can be aligned with the integrated circuit but offset diagonally. Therefore, RF signals of different polarizations of the antenna element can be conducted to the inputs of the antenna element and the LNA while maintaining isolation.

[0096] Advantageously, by providing a first input and a second input between the ground pins, the isolation between the input pins is increased, thereby reducing interference and losses.

[0097] Typically, the first grounding part and the second grounding part are pins on the IC that are connected to ground.

[0098] Typically, an IC is a combination of electronic circuits formed on semiconductor materials.

[0099] Typically, antenna devices are designed for RF communication. Antenna devices can be phased array antenna devices. Antenna devices can be MEMS-based, as they include one or more microelectromechanical structures (MEMS), such as one or more MEMS switches. Typically, antenna devices comprise one or more antenna elements arranged on a flat two-dimensional plane (i.e., all antenna elements are at the same height).

[0100] An antenna module may include a substrate configured to support one or more antenna elements. One or more antenna elements may include a substrate configured to support components (such as antenna elements and integrated circuits) of the antenna elements.

[0101] Typically, an antenna element is the radiating element of an antenna device. Antenna elements can be formed (e.g., on a substrate) by depositing and / or patterning metal (e.g., by photolithography).

[0102] Typically, one or more antenna elements include a signal conductor configured to propagate a signal (e.g., an RF signal). The signal conductor may be electrically connected to the antenna element.

[0103] According to another aspect of the invention, a phased array is provided, which includes at least one of the antenna devices described above.

[0104] Antenna modules can be arranged in a grid pattern. Antenna elements can be arranged in a grid pattern.

[0105] The invention extends to a wireless telecommunications base station (e.g., cellular mobile) or a small, micro, or femtocellular infrastructure, or a (typically wireless) backhaul, transmitter, receiver, or transceiver that includes the antenna device (or one or more antenna modules) or the phased antenna array.

[0106] The present invention extends to a portable personal mobile wireless telecommunications device, which includes one or more of the antenna modules or the phased antenna array. Attached Figure Description

[0107] Now, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be illustrated with reference to the following figures, in which: Figure 1 The figure shows a schematic diagram of an antenna device according to one aspect of the present invention. Figure 2 The illustration shows a schematic diagram of an integrated circuit according to one aspect of the present invention. Figure 3 The figure shows a schematic diagram of an antenna device according to one aspect of the present invention. Figure 4 The figure shows a schematic diagram of an antenna device according to one aspect of the present invention. Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating a method according to one aspect of the present invention is shown. Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a method according to one aspect of the present invention is shown, and Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a controller according to one aspect of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0108] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an antenna device 100 according to one aspect of the present invention is shown. The antenna device 100 includes an integrated circuit (IC) 110 and an antenna element 150. The antenna element 150 receives RF signals from a transmitter (such as a satellite (not shown)).

[0109] IC 110 includes a first low-noise amplifier (LNA) 120 and a second LNA 130. The first LNA 120 is controlled by a control signal transmitted on a first LNA control line 125, and the second LNA 130 is controlled by a control signal transmitted on a second LNA control line 135. The first LNA control line 125 and the second LNA control line 135 transmit control signals that determine whether the corresponding LNA 120, 130 is turned on or off. Control of the first LNA 120 and the second LNA 130 controls which polarization is transmitted through the antenna array 100. The LNA 120, 130 corresponding to the desired polarization is switched on, and the LNA corresponding to the other polarization is switched off.

[0110] The input impedance of the first LNA 120 and the second LNA 130 is 50Ω when the LNA is on and off. The output impedance of the on LNA is also 50Ω. The output impedance of the off LNA is at least 500Ω. The off LNA attenuates unwanted signals, preventing the signals from being transmitted through the antenna array 100.

[0111] Antenna element 150 provides a first RF input signal 150a to a first LNA 120 and a second RF input signal 150b to a second LNA 150b. The first RF input signal 150a and the second RF input signal 150b are amplified by the corresponding first LNA 120 and second LNA 130 when the LNAs are in the ON state. The first LNA 120 provides a first LNA output 120a and the second LNA 130 provides a second LNA output 130a. The first input signal 150a has a first polarization and the second input signal 150b has a second polarization. In one example, the first polarization is vertical polarization and the second polarization is horizontal polarization. In another example, the first polarization is right-hand circular polarization and the second polarization is left-hand circular polarization.

[0112] IC 110 also includes a phase shifter 140, which is controlled by a phase shifter controller 145. The phase shifter controller 145 controls the phase shift applied to the RF signal received by the phase shifter 140. A first LNA 120 outputs an amplified first output signal 120a to the phase shifter 140, and a second LNA 130 outputs an amplified second output signal 130a to the phase shifter 140. The phase shifter 140 outputs a phase-shifted output signal 140a.

[0113] Figure 2 An IC 110 according to one aspect of the present invention is illustrated. The IC includes a first LNA 120 and a second LNA 130, as well as a phase shifter 140. The first LNA control line 125 and the second LNA control line 135 are connected to and controlled by an IC controller 180. A phase shifter controller 145 (not shown for simplicity) is also included. Figure 2 (As shown in the diagram) It is controlled by IC controller 180. Control lines 125 and 135 and IC controller 180 function as a polarization control circuit. Figure 2 As shown, the polarization control circuit is located after the inputs of the first LNA 120 and the second LNA 130.

[0114] IC 110 includes a first RF input pin 155a for transmitting a first RF input signal 150a from antenna element 150 to a first LNA 120. Similarly, IC 110 includes a second RF input pin 155b for transmitting a second RF input signal 150b from antenna element 150 to a second LNA 130. IC 110 also includes an output pin 160 for transmitting an amplified RF output signal 140a from phase shifter 140 to other components within antenna array 100.

[0115] The first input pin 155a, the second input pin 155b, and the output pin 160 are all positioned between the first ground connection pin and the second ground connection pin, indicated by reference numerals 170a to 170f, to isolate the respective pins. The first input pin 155a is located on the first side 112 of IC 110. The second input pin 115b is located on the second side 114 of IC 110. The first side 112 and the second side 114 of IC 110 are orthogonal to each other, which means that the first input pin 155a and the second input pin 155b are orthogonal to each other.

[0116] The first LNA 120 is connected to the first power rail and the second LNA 130 is connected to the second power rail.

[0117] The output signals from the first LNA 120 and the second LNA 130 are combined in synthesizer 138. The output provided by synthesizer 138 is transmitted to phase shifter 140 as a phase shifter input signal.

[0118] IC 110 also includes a control input pin 185. IC controller 180 receives input through control input pin 185. IC 110 also includes various other pins 190a to 190j for other components of IC 110, such as power and communication with other components of the antenna array. Other characteristics of the received RF signal, such as attenuation of the received signal, are also controlled.

[0119] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the antenna array device 200 is shown. For simplicity, some features of IC 110 are not shown. Figure 3 As shown in the diagram, the antenna array 200 includes n antenna elements 150-1 to 150-n, which are arranged on an antenna plate. The antenna elements 150-1 to 150-n (which are patch antennas) include two antenna ports 156 and 158, which respectively output a signal as a first RF input signal for a first LNA and a signal as a second RF input signal for a second LNA. The first antenna port 156 is disposed on a first side 152 of the antenna element (i.e., the antenna plate), and the second antenna port 158 ​​is disposed on a second side 154 of the antenna element (i.e., the antenna plate).

[0120] The first RF input signal is transmitted by a first signal conductor, which is formed by a first portion 162a and a second portion 164a. The second RF input signal is transmitted by a second signal conductor, which is formed by a first portion 162b and a second portion 164b. The first portions 162a and 162b are connected to the corresponding antenna ports 156 and 158. The second portions 164a and 164b are connected to the corresponding input pins 155a and 155b. The first portions 162a and 162b of the signal conductor are perpendicular to each other, such that the RF signals output from the corresponding antenna ports are isolated from each other from the beginning of the signal path. The second portions 164a and 164b of the signal conductor are perpendicular to each other, such that the corresponding RF input signals 150a and 150b are isolated from each other when they are input to IC 110.

[0121] Antenna element 150-2 and IC 110-2 are shown as having these features, and it should be understood that other antenna elements and ICs also have these features, but for simplicity... Figure 3 It was not marked in the document.

[0122] Antenna array 200 includes n ICs 110-1 to 110-n, identical to IC 110. Each IC 110 (specifically IC controller 180) communicates with master controller 280 via control input pin 185. Master controller 280 controls the switching of LNAs 120 and 130, as well as the phase shift and attenuation of each individual IC 110. Each IC 110 provides an output signal 160a via output pin 160. The output signal 160a of IC 110 is transmitted to a combining network, followed by downconverter and intermediate frequency (IF) signal processing (not shown).

[0123] In this example of an antenna array device 200 used in a phased array application, each IC 110 is controlled to provide the same polarization to the phase shifter 140 by turning on and off the same LNAs 120, 120 on each IC 110. The phase shift and attenuation of each IC 110 will be determined to enable beam steering functionality (meaning they are typically different across the array) and implemented by each individual IC 110.

[0124] Figure 4 The illustration shows a schematic diagram of an antenna array device 300 including antenna module 330-1. Antenna module 330-1 includes four antenna elements, one of which is located in… Figure 4 The antenna element 320-1 is designated as 320-1. Each antenna element 320-1 includes an IC (e.g., IC 110-1) and an antenna element 150-1. The antenna array device 300 is described as an example and is envisioned to be used in conjunction with... Figure 4 The antenna devices shown are compared to antenna devices with more antenna modules, antenna modules with more antenna elements, and antenna elements with more ICs and antenna components.

[0125] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating a method 500 for operating an antenna device 100, 200, or 300 according to one aspect of the present invention is shown. Method 500 can also be a method for operating an IC 110. Method 500 includes a first LNA 120 and a second LNA 130 receiving a first RF input signal 510 and a second RF input signal 510 from an antenna element 150 via corresponding input pins 155a and 155b, respectively.

[0126] Method 500 also includes receiving a polarization control signal 520 from the polarization control circuitry. The polarization control signal determines which signal is provided to the phase shifter 140. The polarization control signal is used to determine which LNA 120, 130 should be switched to the on state and which LNA 120, 130 should be in the off state. In some examples, the polarization control circuitry may allow both polarizations to be provided to the phase shifter 140.

[0127] Then, the first LNA 120 and the second LNA 130 are selectively switched 530 depending on the polarization control signal to provide one of the first output signal 120a or the second output signal 130a to the phase shifter 140. This can be achieved by connecting the first power rail or the second power rail to the corresponding LNA 120, 130. The LNAs 120, 130 that provide output signals to the phase shifter 140 are "on" LNAs. The LNAs not connected to the phase shifter 140 are "off" LNAs.

[0128] The “on” LNA performs low-noise amplification on its received RF input signal. The amplified output signals of the “on” LNAs 120 and 130 are provided to phase shifter 140 at 540. The “off” LNA attenuates its received RF input signal. In some examples, if both LNAs are on, both polarizations, and therefore the first RF input signal 150a and the second RF input signal 150b, can be amplified and provided to phase shifter 140.

[0129] The selective switching of the first LNA 120 and the second LNA 130 is triggered by the formation of a new communication link and / or the transmission of RF signals from the antenna devices 100, 200, and 300. The first LNA 120 and the second LNA 130 switch every 100 microseconds to perform a polarization scan.

[0130] As part of method 530 for selectively switching LNAs, method 500 includes providing a 10:1 ratio of the output impedance of the LNA in the off state to the output impedance of the LNA in the on state to adequately isolate the off LNA.

[0131] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a method 600 for manufacturing an antenna device 100, 200, or 300 according to one aspect of the present invention is shown. Method 600 includes: providing 610 plurality of antenna modules, such as antenna module 330-1; providing 620 one or more antenna elements, such as antenna element 320-1, in each antenna module; and providing 630 antenna element 150 and IC 110 in each antenna element. Method 600 further includes providing 640 of a first LNA 120 and 650 of a second LNA 130 on each IC 110. Method 600 further includes providing 660 of polarization control circuitry 160 on each IC 100.

[0132] When a first LNA 120 (640) and a second LNA 130 (650) are provided on IC 110, the LNAs are directly connected to the first input pin 155a and the second input pin 155b from the antenna element 150, respectively.

[0133] The 660 polarization control circuitry includes positioning the polarization control circuitry after LNAs 120 and 130 on IC 110.

[0134] During manufacturing, the 640 and 650 first LNA 120 and second LNA 130 are provided by selecting LNAs with equal impedances of less than 65Ω (i.e., 50Ω). Additionally, the method of providing the 640 and 650 first and second LNAs includes connecting the LNAs to their respective power rails.

[0135] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, each IC 110 has two LNAs. Method 600 includes providing a total number of LNAs per antenna element that is greater than the total number of antenna elements per antenna element.

[0136] Additionally, method 600 includes providing each of the first input pin 115a and the second input pin 155b between ground pins 170a, 170b, 170c, and 170d. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, IC 110 is manufactured by providing a track on the first input of the integrated circuit that is orthogonal to the track of the second input on the integrated circuit. Method 600 also includes forming the first input and the second input from the antenna element on a continuous conductor.

[0137] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a controller 710 according to one aspect of the invention is illustrated. The controller 710 includes one or more processors 720 and a non-transitory computer-readable memory 730. The non-volatile computer-readable memory 730 stores instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors 720, cause operation of the methods described herein. The controller 710 exchanges data and / or control signals 725 with other components of IC 110. The controller 710 is part of antenna device 100, 200, or 300. The controller 710 may be a main controller 280, IC controller 180, and / or phase shifter controller 145.

[0138] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words “comprising” and “including” and variations thereof mean “including, but not limited to”, and they are not intended to (and do not) exclude other parts, integers, or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular form includes the plural form unless the context otherwise requires. Specifically, where the indefinite article is used, this specification will be understood to include both the plural and singular forms unless the context otherwise requires.

[0139] Features, integers, characteristics, or groups described in connection with a particular aspect, embodiment, or example of the invention shall be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment, or example described herein, unless incompatible therewith. All features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings) and / or all steps of any method or process so disclosed may be combined in any combination, except for at least some mutually exclusive combinations of such features and / or steps. The invention is not limited to the details of any of the foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel feature or any novel combination of features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings), or to any novel step or any novel combination of steps in any disclosed method or process.

Claims

1. An antenna device, comprising: Multiple antenna modules, each antenna module including one or more antenna elements, each of the one or more antenna elements including an antenna element and an integrated circuit, the integrated circuit including: A first low-noise amplifier (LNA) is configured to receive a first input signal from the antenna element via a first input and to provide a first output signal to the phase shifter. A second LNA is configured to receive a second input signal from the antenna element via a second input and to provide a second output signal to the phase shifter, wherein the first input signal and the second input signal have different polarizations; and The polarization control circuit is configured to selectively switch at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA to an on or off state.

2. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein, The polarization control circuit is located on the integrated circuit after the first LNA and the second LNA.

3. The antenna device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The first input is directly connected to the first LNA and the second input is directly connected to the second LNA.

4. The antenna device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The input impedance of the first LNA in the on state or the off state is equal to the input impedance of the second LNA in the on state or the off state.

5. The antenna device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The input impedance of the first LNA is less than 65Ω and the input impedance of the second LNA is less than 65Ω.

6. The antenna device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The polarization control circuit is configured to switch one of the first LNA and the second LNA to the on state and the other to the off state, so as to provide the first output signal or the second output signal to the phase shifter at any time.

7. The antenna device according to claim 6, wherein, The ratio of the output impedance of the LNA in the off state to the output impedance of the LNA in the on state is 10:

1. Optionally, the output impedance of the LNA in the off state is 500Ω and the output impedance of the LNA in the on state is 50Ω.

8. The antenna device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first LNA is connected to a first power rail and the second LNA is connected to a second power rail, and the polarization control circuit is configured to control the connection to the first power rail and the second power rail to selectively switch at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA to the on state or the off state.

9. The antenna device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least one of the following: The total number of LNAs that can be switched individually in each antenna element is greater than the total number of antenna elements in each antenna element, and The first and second inputs from the antenna element are portions of a continuous conductor (typically opposite ends).

10. The antenna device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The polarization control circuit is configured to alternately switch the first LNA and the second LNA to the on state while switching another LNA to the off state. Optionally, the first LNA and the second LNA alternately switch on during each switching period. Optionally, the maximum switching period is 100 microseconds.

11. The antenna device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least one of the first LNA and the second LNA is selectively switched depending on the following: The formation of a communication link between the antenna device and the transmitter and / or receiver, and / or Transmission of RF signals through the antenna device.

12. The antenna device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least one of the following: The track of the first input on the integrated circuit is orthogonal to the track of the second input on the integrated circuit; and Each of the first input and the second input is located between a first ground portion and a second ground portion on the integrated circuit.

13. A phased array comprising at least one of the antenna devices according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. A method of operating an antenna device, the antenna device comprising a plurality of antenna modules, each antenna module comprising one or more antenna elements, each of the one or more antenna elements comprising an antenna element and an integrated circuit, the integrated circuit comprising a first low-noise amplifier (LNA), a second LNA, and a phase shifter, the method comprising: The first LNA receives a first input signal from the antenna element via a first input; The second LNA receives a second input signal from the antenna element via a second input, wherein the first input signal and the second input signal have different polarizations; Receive polarization control signals; Depending on the polarization control signal, at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA may be selectively switched to an on or off state; and The first LNA provides a first output signal to the phase shifter and / or the second LNA provides a second output signal to the phase shifter.

15. The method of operating the antenna device according to claim 14, comprising: Switch one of the first LNA and the second LNA to the on state and switch the other to the off state to provide the first output signal or the second output signal to the phase shifter at any time.

16. The method of operating the antenna device according to claim 15, comprising: Providing a 10:1 ratio of the output impedance of the LNA in the off state to the output impedance of the LNA in the on state, optionally including providing 500Ω of the output impedance of the LNA in the off state and 50Ω of the output impedance of the LNA in the on state.

17. The method of operating the antenna device according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein, The first LNA is connected to a first power rail and the second LNA is connected to a second power rail, and the method includes: controlling the connections to the first power rail and the second power rail to selectively switch at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA to the on state or the off state.

18. A method of operating an antenna device according to any one of claims 14 to 17, comprising: Alternatingly switching the first LNA and the second LNA to the on state while simultaneously switching another LNA to the off state, optionally includes: alternately switching the first LNA and the second LNA on during each switching period, optionally wherein the maximum switching period is 100 microseconds.

19. A method of operating an antenna device according to any one of claims 14 to 18, comprising selectively switching at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA depending on the following: The formation of a communication link between the antenna device and the transmitter and / or receiver; and / or Transmission of RF signals through the antenna device.

20. A method for manufacturing an antenna device, comprising: Multiple antenna modules are provided, each of which includes one or more antenna elements; The one or more antenna elements are provided, each of the one or more antenna elements including an antenna element and an integrated circuit; The antenna element and the integrated circuit are provided, wherein providing the integrated circuit includes: A first low-noise amplifier (LNA) is provided, the first LNA being configured to receive a first input signal from the antenna element via a first input and to provide a first output signal to the phase shifter; A second LNA is provided, the second LNA being configured to receive a second input signal from the antenna element via a second input and to provide a second output signal to the phase shifter, wherein the first input signal and the second input signal have different polarizations; and A polarization control circuit is provided, which is configured to selectively switch at least one of the first LNA and the second LNA to an on state or an off state.

21. The method of manufacturing an antenna device according to claim 20, comprising: A polarization control circuit is provided, which is located on the integrated circuit after the first LNA and the second LNA.

22. The method of manufacturing an antenna device according to claim 20 or claim 21, comprising: Connect the first input directly to the first LNA and the second input directly to the second LNA.

23. A method for manufacturing an antenna device according to any one of claims 20 to 22, comprising: A first LNA and a second LNA are provided, the first LNA and the second LNA having equal input impedance, regardless of the state of each LNA.

24. The method of manufacturing an antenna device according to any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein the first LNA and the second LNA both have an input impedance of less than 65Ω.

25. A method of manufacturing an antenna device according to any one of claims 20 to 24, comprising: Connect the first LNA to the first power rail and the second LNA to the second power rail.

26. The method of manufacturing an antenna device according to any one of claims 20 to 25, comprising providing at least one of the following: Each antenna element LNA whose total number is greater than the total number of antenna elements in each antenna element; and The first input and the second input from the antenna element on a continuous conductor.

27. The method of manufacturing an antenna device according to any one of claims 20 to 26, comprising at least one of the following: Provides a track on the integrated circuit for the first input that is orthogonal to the track of the second input on the integrated circuit; and Each of the first input and the second input is provided between a first ground portion and a second ground portion on the integrated circuit.

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