Antenna power amplifier selection

Abstract

The application relates to selecting a power amplifier from a plurality of power amplifiers of a user equipment (UE) for transmitting data to a base station via an antenna of the UE. In an example, the UE stores characterization data indicating a selection of the power amplifier given a requested power output and a set of transmission parameters for uplink transmission. The set may include any one of the antenna, radio access technology, frequency band, and / or frequency bandwidth, or a combination thereof. The characterization data may be generated according to an offline characterization procedure, and the characterization data may be stored as a lookup table in a memory of the UE.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 810,482, filed August 20, 2024, entitled “ANTENNAPOWER AMPLIFIER SELECTION”, pursuant to 35 USC119(e), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Background Technology

[0003] The user equipment (UE) can communicate with the base station, thereby enabling the UE to transmit data at a target power transmission power. The base station can instruct the UE to transmit at that target power. The signal carrying the data to be transmitted can be amplified by a power amplifier and transmitted by an antenna coupled to the power amplifier. Attached Figure Description

[0004] Figure 1 Examples of network environments based on some implementation schemes are provided.

[0005] Figure 2 Examples of multi-antenna user equipment (UE) according to some implementation schemes are illustrated.

[0006] Figure 3 Examples of multiple power amplifiers coupled to the same antenna of the UE according to some implementation schemes are illustrated.

[0007] Figure 4 Examples of antenna-power amplifier selection based on some implementation schemes are illustrated.

[0008] Figure 5 Examples of graphs illustrating the performance of different antenna-power amplifier selections according to some implementation schemes are shown.

[0009] Figure 6 Examples of environments used to characterize the UE to enable antenna-power amplifier selection are illustrated according to some implementation schemes.

[0010] Figure 7 Examples of characterization data for enabling antenna-power amplifier selection according to some implementation schemes are illustrated.

[0011] Figure 8 Examples of operational flow / algorithm structures for characterizing a UE, implemented by the system according to some implementation schemes, are illustrated.

[0012] Figure 9 An example of an operational flow / algorithm structure implemented by a UE for selecting a power amplifier for data transmission via an antenna, according to some implementation schemes, is illustrated.

[0013] Figure 10 Examples of operational flow / algorithm structures for antenna-power amplifier selection based on some implementation schemes are illustrated.

[0014] Figure 11 Another example of the operational flow / algorithm structure for antenna-power amplifier selection according to some implementation schemes is illustrated.

[0015] Figure 12 Examples of operational flow / algorithm structures for UE characterization based on some implementation schemes are illustrated.

[0016] Figure 13 Another example is illustrated of an operational flow / algorithm structure that can be followed according to UE representations based on some implementation schemes.

[0017] Figure 14 Examples of UEs according to some implementation schemes are shown.

[0018] Figure 15 Examples of base stations based on some implementation schemes are shown.

[0019] Figure 16 Examples of systems based on some implementation schemes are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Embodiments of this disclosure particularly relate to selecting a power amplifier from a plurality of power amplifiers of a user equipment (UE) for transmitting data to a base station via the UE's antenna. In examples, the UE may include power amplifiers of different types and / or different physical arrangements, wherein such power amplifiers are coupled to antennas. The UE may store characterization data in its memory that associates a set of transmission parameters with a threshold and indicates which of the plurality of power amplifiers to select given the set of transmission parameters, and how the threshold is compared to a target power output. The set of transmission parameters may indicate the radio access technology (RAT) to be used for data transmission, the frequency band, frequency bandwidth, and / or transmission antenna (e.g., in the case where the UE includes multiple antennas). The target power output may be indicated by the base station. Given the RAT, frequency band, frequency bandwidth, and / or transmission antenna, the UE may determine the value of the threshold based on the characterization data. This value is compared to the target power output. If the target power output is greater than the value, a first power amplifier (e.g., a peak performance power amplifier, which may consume more current than a more efficient power amplifier) ​​is selected. Conversely, if the target power output is less than the value, a second power amplifier (e.g., a more efficient power amplifier) ​​is selected. Characterization data can indicate which of the two power amplifiers should be selected based on the comparison results.

[0021] In the example, characterization data can be generated in an offline environment (e.g., in a laboratory environment) by characterizing different Devices Under Test (DUTs). For a set of transmit parameters (including a specific antenna), the system can instruct the DUT to transmit data using a power amplifier coupled to the antenna, where transmission is set for a specific power output. The current used by the power amplifier is measured. Similar measurements are repeated for the power amplifier-antenna pair under different power outputs, different power amplifier-antenna pairs, different sets of transmit parameters, and different DUTs of the same type (e.g., with the same architecture). The system can collect measurements for each set of transmit parameters. Given such measurements, the system can identify a threshold and an optimal choice for the amplifier for each antenna pair and associate the threshold and the optimal choice with the relevant set of transmit parameters. The system can format the resulting characterization data into a lookup table (LUT) and can transmit the LUT to the UE. The UE can store the LUT in its memory for runtime use.

[0022] The aforementioned technologies offer several technical advantages. For example, given specific conditions, an optimal power amplifier can be selected and used. This selection optimizes signal transmission and power consumption. To illustrate, when the UE is closer to the cell edge and requested to transmit at high power output, a peak performance amplifier can be selected and used, allowing the UE to meet the request. Conversely, when the UE is closer to the cell center and requested to transmit at lower power output, a more efficient power amplifier can be selected and used, allowing the UE to reduce its power consumption.

[0023] This document describes various implementations in conjunction with power amplifier selection based on a target power output of the transmit antenna (referred to as target transmit antenna power). In this implementation, such selection is enabled using a characterization of the power amplifier current consumption as a function of the transmit antenna power. Therefore, the implementation is described using two control dimensions: target transmit antenna power and power amplifier power consumption. However, the implementation is not limited to this. Regarding the first control dimension, transmit optimization parameters can be set as the target for power amplifier selection. Transmit optimization parameters can include any parameter or combination of parameters (other than or in lieu of the target transmit antenna power), such as: power amplifier current consumption, power amplifier voltage level, power amplifier power consumption, power amplifier thermal characteristics (e.g., how much heat is generated by the selected power amplifier during a given time period, and / or the increase in operating temperature of the power amplifier or RF front end due to the use of the power amplifier during that time period), power amplifier usage time (e.g., the length of time the selected amplifier is used), and / or user settings (e.g., user preferences associated with switching between amplifiers, the frequency at which switching can be performed based on or independently of previous parameters, and / or the maximum number of switching). Regarding the second control dimension, the characterization parameter set can include any parameter or combination of parameters listed in this paragraph. The combination of the antenna and multiple controllably coupled power amplifiers can be characterized, thereby allowing the measurement of characterization parameters as a function of transmission optimization parameters.

[0024] For illustration, consider the following example where the power amplifiers alternate at any given time to improve performance. In the first example, the characterization parameter is thermal characteristics. In this example, for the combination of the antenna and two amplifiers, the thermal characteristics can be characterized as a function of any optimization parameter (in a manner similar to and equivalent to the implementation described below). This characterization allows for the definition of one or more thresholds, such that it can be discovered that one power amplifier supports a performance benefit based on thermal characteristics, while the other power amplifier may have a different performance benefit based on thermal characteristics. In this case, the resulting characterization data (e.g., organized in a lookup table) reflects this characterization.

[0025] In the second example, the transmit optimization parameter is the target transmit antenna power. The characterization parameter is user preference. In this example, for a combination of antenna and two amplifiers, user preference can be characterized as a function of transmit antenna power. This characterization allows for the definition of one or more thresholds, such that it can be found that one power amplifier is preferred by the user for transmit antenna power output greater than the threshold, while the other power amplifier is preferred for transmit antenna power output less than the threshold. In this case, the resulting characterization data (e.g., organized in a lookup table) reflects this characterization.

[0026] In the third example, the transmission optimization parameter is the power amplifier current consumption. In this example, for the combination of the antenna and two amplifiers, the current characteristics can be characterized as a function of the amplifier power consumption (in a manner similar to and equivalent to the implementation described below). This characterization allows for the definition of one or more thresholds, such that it can be found that one power amplifier consumes more current, while the other consumes less current. In this case, the resulting characterization data (e.g., organized in a lookup table) reflects this characterization.

[0027] For clarity, various embodiments of this disclosure are described in conjunction with new radio (NR) fifth-generation (5G) cellular networks. However, embodiments may not be limited to this and may be applicable to other types of wireless networks, including, for example, fourth-generation (4G) cellular networks, sixth-generation (6G) cellular networks, WiFi, Bluetooth, or any other radio network.

[0028] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals may be used to identify the same or similar elements in different drawings. In the following description, specific details, such as particular structures, architectures, interfaces, technologies, etc., are set forth for illustrative and non-limiting purposes to provide a thorough understanding of various aspects of the various embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various aspects of the various embodiments may be practiced in other examples departing from these specific details. In some instances, descriptions of well-known devices, circuits, and methods have been omitted so as not to obscure the description of the various embodiments with unnecessary detail. For the purposes of this document, the phrase "A or B" means (A), (B), or (A and B).

[0029] The following is a glossary of terms that may be used in this disclosure.

[0030] As used herein, the term "circuit" refers to, is part of, or includes the following: hardware components such as electronic circuits, logic circuits, processors (shared, dedicated, or grouped) or memories (shared, dedicated, or grouped) configured to provide the described functionality, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable devices (FPDs) (e.g., field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), complex PLDs (CPLDs), high-capacity PLDs (HCPLDs), structured ASICs, or programmable system-on-chips (SoCs)), digital signal processors (DSPs), etc. In some embodiments, the circuit may execute one or more software or firmware programs to provide at least some of the described functionality. The term "circuit" may also refer to a combination of one or more hardware elements (or a combination of circuits used in an electrical or electronic system) and program code for executing the functionality. In these embodiments, the combination of hardware elements and program code may be referred to as a particular type of circuit.

[0031] As used herein, the term "processing circuit" means, is part of, or includes the following: circuitry capable of sequentially and automatically performing a series of arithmetic or logical operations or recording, storing, or transmitting digital data. The term "processing circuitry" can also refer to an application processor, baseband processor, central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit, single-core processor, dual-core processor, triple-core processor, quad-core processor, or any other device capable of executing or otherwise operating computer-executable instructions such as program code, software modules, and / or functional processes.

[0032] As used herein, the terms “equipment” and “user equipment (UE)” refer to wired and / or wireless computing devices that have radio communication capabilities and can use network resources in a communication network. The terms “equipment” and “UE” may be considered synonymous with the following and may be referred to as client, mobile phone, mobile device, mobile terminal, user terminal, mobile unit, mobile station, mobile user, subscriber, user, remote station, access agent, user agent, receiver, radio equipment, reconfigurable radio equipment, reconfigurable mobile device, etc.

[0033] As used herein, the term "base station" refers to a device with radio communication capabilities that is a network component of a communication network (or more simply, a network) and can be configured as an access node within the communication network. Access to the communication network by a device can be managed at least partially by the base station, thereby enabling the UE to connect to the base station to access the communication network. Depending on the Radio Access Technology (RAT), a base station may be referred to as a gNodeB (gNB), eNodeB (eNB), access point (AP), etc.

[0034] As used herein, the term "network" refers to a communication network comprising a set of network nodes configured to provide communication capabilities to multiple user equipments via one or more base stations. For example, a network may be a Public Land Mobile Network (PLM N) implementing one or more communication technologies, including, for example, 5G communication.

[0035] As used herein, the term "system" refers to any type of interconnected electronic device, computer device, or component thereof. Additionally, the term "system" can refer to various components of a computer that are communicatively coupled to each other. Furthermore, the term "system" can refer to multiple computer devices or multiple computing systems that are communicatively coupled to each other and configured to share computing resources and / or networking resources.

[0036] The term “coupling” may mean that two or more elements have established a signaling and / or power relationship with each other, directly or indirectly, such that a signal can be transmitted from at least one of these elements to another, and / or power can be supplied and / or controlled by at least one of these elements for the other.

[0037] Figure 1 A network environment 100 according to some implementation schemes is illustrated. As illustrated, network environment 100 includes UE 104 and base station 108. Base station 108 provides a radio access cell; for example, a 3GPP cell (e.g., a New Radio (NR) 5G cell), through which UE 104 can communicate with base station 108. This base station can be a component of a network (e.g., a 3GPP cellular network). UE 104 and base station 108 (e.g., gNB) can communicate via an interface compatible with 3GPP technical specifications.

[0038] As further described in the following figures, UE 104 includes one or more antennas. Each antenna may be coupled to multiple power amplifiers. The antennas and power amplifiers may be components of the radio frequency (RF) front end of UE 104. In the uplink transmission path, the power amplifiers may amplify signals for transmission via the antennas, where the signals carry uplink data.

[0039] In the case of multiple antennas, UE 104 may implement antenna selector 112 (in hardware and / or software). Antenna selector 112 may process different inputs (which may include user grip data and / or reference signal measurements) to select a transmit antenna from among multiple antennas. For example, a receive antenna (e.g., corresponding to the optimal reference signal measurement) may be selected based on a reference signal measurement generated from the reception of a reference signal from the antenna. The same antenna may also be used for transmission. In another example, user grip data may indicate how the end user holds UE 104 (e.g., whether the UE is not held at all, held with both hands, held with one hand, held with one left hand in portrait mode, held with one left hand in landscape mode, held with one right hand in portrait mode, or held with one right hand in landscape mode). Grip may affect antenna performance (e.g., the hand or fingers used may be located in the RF path of the antenna). User grip data may be used in conjunction with other factors (e.g., reference signal measurements, frequency band, frequency bandwidth, and / or the radio access technology (RAT) to be used for transmission) to select the transmit antenna. Example techniques for such antenna selection are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 796,228, filed August 6, 2024, entitled “Antenna selection for data transmission and tuner state selection for reception optimization by a multi-antenna user equipment (UE)” and U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 796,166, filed August 6, 2024, entitled “Artificial intelligence model-based selection of an antenna optimization parameter for a multi-antenna user equipment (UE)”, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0040] As explained above, UE 104 may include one or more antennas. In both cases, UE 104 may also include multiple power amplifiers. At least one antenna is coupled to two or more power amplifiers. Assume that the antenna is selected for uplink transmission. UE 104 may implement a power amplifier selector 114 (in hardware and / or software). Power amplifier selector 114 may process different inputs (which may include a set of transmission parameters and a power output request 120) to select one of the power amplifiers coupled to the antenna for amplifying the transmitted signal. The set of transmission parameters may include the RAT (e.g., NR for 5G cellular networks, LTE for 4G cellular networks, etc.), frequency band (FB), frequency bandwidth (BW), and antenna (ANT) to be used for uplink transmission. The power output request 120 may be received from base station 108 (e.g., via Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling, downlink control information (DCI), or other components) and may indicate the power output (e.g., power margin) for uplink transmission. To enable power amplifier selection, UE 104 may store data in its memory (e.g., non-volatile memory) indicating the power amplifier to be selected given a set of transmit parameters and power output. The data may be characterization data generated in an offline environment. Given a set of transmit parameters, the data may indicate a threshold (TH) to be used. Based on a comparison between the power output and the threshold, the data may indicate the power amplifier to be selected. In this example, the data may be stored as a lookup table (LUT) 116. In this example, the power amplifier selector 114 can look up the LUT 116 using the set of transmit parameters and determine the corresponding value of the threshold determined from the lookup. Furthermore, the power amplifier selector 114 can compare the power output with the threshold value and, based on the comparison result, determine the power amplifier from the LUT 116. The power amplifier selector 114 selects this power amplifier. The processing circuitry (e.g., a controller) at the front end of UE 104 can then control the coupling of the power amplifier to the transmit antenna and the amplification of the transmitted signal by the power amplifier. Therefore, UE 104 can send data 140 to base station 108, wherein data 140 represents uplink data carried by a transmission signal amplified by a selected power amplifier and transmitted via an antenna.

[0041] Base station 108 can transmit information (e.g., data and control signaling) in the downlink direction by mapping logical channels onto transport channels and then mapping the transport channels onto physical channels. Logical channels can transmit data between the Radio Link Control (RLC) layer and the Media Access Control (MAC) layer; transport channels can transmit data between the MAC and PHY layers; and physical channels can transmit information across the air interface. Physical channels may include the Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH); the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH); and the Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH).

[0042] The PBCH can be used to broadcast system information that UE 104 can use for initial access to the serving cell. The PBCH can be transmitted together with the primary synchronization signal (PSS) and secondary synchronization signal (SSS) in the synchronization signal (SS) / PBCH block. The SS / PBCH block (SSB) can be used by UE 104 during the cell search procedure and for beam selection.

[0043] PDSCH can be used to transmit end-user application data (e.g., application data 140), signaling radio bearer (SRB) messages, system information messages (other than MIBs), and paging messages.

[0044] The PDCCH can transmit downlink control information (DCI), which is used by the scheduler of network node 108 to allocate both uplink and downlink resources. The DCI can also be used to provide uplink power control commands, configure time slot formats, or indicate that preemption has occurred.

[0045] Base station 108 can also transmit various reference signals to UE 104. These reference signals may include demodulation reference signals (DM-RS) for PBC H, PDCCH, and PDSCH. UE 104 can compare the received version of the DMRS with the transmitted known DM-RS sequence to estimate the impact of the propagation channel. UE 104 can then apply the inverse channel of the propagation channel during the demodulation process transmitted on the corresponding physical channel.

[0046] The reference signal may also include CSI-RS. CSI-RS can be a multipurpose downlink transmitter that can be used for CSI reporting, beam management, connection mode mobility, radio link failure detection, beam failure detection and recovery, and fine-tuning of time and frequency synchronization.

[0047] Reference signals and information from the physical channel can be mapped to resources in the resource grid. For a given antenna port, subcarrier spacing configuration, and transmission direction (e.g., downlink or uplink), there exists a resource grid. The basic unit of the NR downlink resource grid can be a resource element, which can be defined by a subcarrier in the frequency domain and an OFDM symbol in the time domain. Twelve consecutive subcarriers in the frequency domain can constitute a Physical Resource Block (PRB). A Resource Element Group (REG) can include a PRB in the frequency domain and an OFDM symbol in the time domain, for example, twelve resource elements. A Control Channel Element (CCE) can represent a resource group used to transmit the PDC CH. One CCE can be mapped to multiple REGs; for example, six REGs.

[0048] UE 104 can use physical uplink channels to send data and control information to base station 108. Different types of physical uplink channels are possible, including physical uplink control channel (PUC CH) and physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH). PUCCH carries control information from UE 104 to base station 108, such as uplink control information (UCI), while PUSCH carries data services (e.g., end-user application data) and may carry UCI.

[0049] In the example, communication with base station 108 may utilize channels in frequency range 1 (FR1) and / or frequency range 2 (FR2) bands, although other frequency ranges are also possible. The FR1 band includes licensed and unlicensed frequency bands. The NR unlicensed band (NR-U) includes spectrum shared with other types of radio access technologies (RATs) (e.g., LTE-LAA, WiFi, etc.). A listen-before-speak (LBT) protocol can be used to avoid or minimize conflicts between different RATs in the NR-U, whereby the device applies a free channel assessment (CCA) check before using the channel.

[0050] Figure 2 An example of a multi-antenna UE 204 according to some implementation schemes is illustrated. The multi-antenna UE 204 is... Figure 1 Example of UE 104. For the sake of brevity, the multi-antenna UE may be referred to as UE in this disclosure. As shown, UE 204 includes four antennas. The first antenna (1) 210 is located at the lower right corner of UE 204, while the second antenna (2) 220 is located at the upper left corner of UE 204. In addition, the third antenna (3) 230 is located at the lower left corner of UE 204, while the fourth antenna (4) 240 is located at the upper right corner of UE 204. Of course, depending on the type and / or model of UE 204 (e.g., smartphone, tablet, wearable device and / or a specific model of such device), different numbers and / or arrangements of antennas are possible.

[0051] UE 204 may include a housing defining a user-facing side (e.g., the location where the screen is located and accessible to the user) and an opposing rear side. Antennas (1)-(4) 210-240 may be disposed within the housing near the rear side, wherein the rear side may include one or more radio frequency (RF) transparent windows at least at the antenna locations. RF transparency may be affected by how the end user holds UE 204.

[0052] Each of the antennas (1)-(4)210-240 can be used for receiving and / or transmitting (e.g., it can be a transmit and receive antenna). Furthermore, one or more of the antennas (1)-(4)210-240 may include multiple antenna elements (e.g., it can be an antenna panel supporting beamforming). The antennas (1)-(4)210-240 may be components of the RF front end of the UE 204. This RF front end may support FDD and / or TDD technologies. As further described below, the RF front end may include multiple power amplifiers. At least two of such power amplifiers may be controllably coupled to at least one of the antennas (1)-(4)210-240.

[0053] Figure 3 An example of multiple power amplifiers coupled to the same antenna of the UE according to some implementation schemes is illustrated. Although a single antenna 320 is shown, the UE can be a multi-antenna UE, such as... Figure 2 UE 204. In this case, one or more of these antennas can be controllably coupled to multiple power amplifiers.

[0054] As shown in the figure, the UE includes a first power amplifier (1) 310, a second power amplifier (2) 312, and an antenna 320 (although a larger number of power amplifiers and / or antennas is possible). Each of the two power amplifiers 310 and 312 is coupled to the antenna 320. This coupling allows each of the power amplifiers 310 and 312 to amplify the signal to be transmitted by the antenna 320. For example, the coupling can be an electrical coupling involving a conductive material arranged to create an electrical path between each power amplifier 310 and 312 and the antenna 320 (e.g., as a through-hole on the board on which the power amplifiers 310 and 312 and the antenna 320 are mounted, as a wire, etc.). The coupling can also be controlled such that only one of the two electrical paths conducts at a time (e.g., via a controller and a set of switches mounted on the board, wherein the controller can change the state of the switches such that at any given time, only the electrical path between the first power amplifier (1) 310 and the antenna 320 is closed and conducts, while the electrical path between the second power amplifier (2) 312 and the antenna 320 is open, and vice versa).

[0055] In the example, the first power amplifier (1) 310, the second power amplifier (2) 312, and the antenna 320 are arranged at different locations in the UE (possibly on the same board). As illustrated, the first power amplifier (1) 310 is physically closer to the antenna 320 than the second power amplifier (2) 312. Because the first power amplifier (1) 310 is physically closer, the electrical path between the first power amplifier (1) 310 and the antenna 320 may have a lower resistance than the electrical path between the second power amplifier (2) 312 and the antenna 320 (assuming the same conductive material is used to create these electrical paths). Therefore, the first power loss (1) 330 between the first power amplifier (1) 310 and the antenna 320 (e.g., due to the lower resistivity of the corresponding electrical path) is less than the second power loss (2) 332 between the second power amplifier (2) 312 and the antenna 320 (e.g., due to the higher resistivity of the corresponding electrical path). Therefore, in order to achieve the same signal amplification at antenna 320, the second power amplifier (2) 312 needs to consume more power (e.g., more current, assuming both power amplifiers 310 and 312 are supplied with the same guardrail voltage). In other words, given a closer proximity of the first power amplifier (1) 310 to antenna 320, the first power amplifier (1) 310 is more power efficient (e.g., consumes less current) than the second power amplifier (2) 312 relative to antenna 320.

[0056] The first power amplifier (1) 310 and the second power amplifier (2) 312 may have the same electrical characteristics (e.g., the same power consumption and signal amplification due to having the same model, for example). In this case, different power losses may affect the signal amplification capability. Specifically, for example, a certain power output of the antenna 320 is desired. The amplification efficiency of the second power amplifier (2) 312 is lower than that of the first power amplifier (1) 310. Furthermore, the amplification of the second power amplifier (2) may be capped or limited due to the higher power loss (2) 332. For illustration, assume that the maximum amplification of each of the two power amplifiers 310 and 312 is 20 dBm, the power loss (1) is 1 dBm, and the power loss (2) is 3 dBm. Therefore, the actual maximum amplification of the first power amplifier (1) 310 is 19 dBm, while the actual maximum amplification of the second power amplifier (2) 312 is 17 dBm. If the desired output power of the antenna is 18 dBm, the first power amplifier (1) 310 may be able to support that power, while the second power amplifier (2) 312 may not be able to support that power due to its higher power loss (2) 332.

[0057] However, the first power amplifier (1) 310 and the second power amplifier (2) 312 may have different electrical characteristics (e.g., different power consumption and / or different signal amplification due to, for example, different models). In this case, the first power amplifier (1) 310 and the second power amplifier (2) 312 may still be located at different distances from the antenna 320 (and therefore have different power losses), or they may be located at the same distance from the antenna 320 (and therefore have the same power losses). Power loss and / or different electrical characteristics may affect the power efficiency and / or power transmission margin of the signal transmission.

[0058] As further described in the following figures, different power losses and / or different electrical characteristics can be considered when selecting a power amplifier from the first power amplifier (1) 310 and the second power amplifier (2) 312 to amplify the signal to be transmitted via the antenna 320. Generally, when a high output power of the antenna 320 is required (where high can be defined as greater than a threshold), a power amplifier with lower power efficiency but higher signal amplification capability can be selected. This high power requirement may correspond to the case where the UE is at the cell edge (e.g., at a greater distance from the base station 108). In contrast, when a low output power of the antenna 320 is required (where low can be defined as less than a threshold), a power amplifier with higher power efficiency but potentially lower signal amplification capability can be selected. This low power requirement may correspond to the case where the UE is not at the cell edge (e.g., at a closer distance from the base station 108). Which of the first power amplifier (1) 310 and the second power amplifier (2) can be considered to have higher / lower power efficiency and higher / lower signal amplification capability (e.g., in combination with the antenna 320) can be determined via a device characterization process.

[0059] Figure 4 Examples of antenna-power amplifier selection according to some implementation schemes are illustrated. In the example, the UE (e.g., Figure 2 The UE 204 includes four antennas and at least a first power amplifier (1) 410 and a second power amplifier (2) 412 (similar to the first power amplifier (1) 310 and the second power amplifier (2) 312). One of the first antennas is selected as the transmitting antenna 420 (shown as the upper left antenna in solid line, while the other three antennas are shown in dashed line). This selection may be based on various factors, including, for example, user-held data and / or reference signal measurements.

[0060] Given other factors (e.g., the requested power output given the proximity of the UE to the base station), the UE performs a first power amplifier selection 401. According to this power amplifier selection 401, the first power amplifier (1) 410 is selected instead of the second power amplifier (2) 420 (this selection is shown by using a solid rectangle for the first power amplifier (1) 410 and a dashed rectangle for the second power amplifier (2) 412). The electrical path between the first power amplifier (1) 410 and the transmit antenna 420 is closed, while the electrical path between the second power amplifier (2) 412 and the transmit antenna 420 is open. The signal is amplified by the first power amplifier (1) 410 and transmitted by the transmit antenna 420.

[0061] Updates to factors may occur (e.g., requesting lower or higher power output given different proximity of the UE to the base station). The UE can then perform a second power amplifier selection 402. Based on this power amplifier selection 402, the first power amplifier (1) 410 is deselected, and the second power amplifier (2) 420 is selected (this selection is shown by using a dashed rectangle for the first power amplifier (1) 410 and a solid rectangle for the second power amplifier (2) 412). The electrical path between the first power amplifier (1) 410 and the transmit antenna 420 is broken, while the electrical path between the second power amplifier (2) 412 and the transmit antenna 420 is closed. The signal is amplified by the second power amplifier (2) 412 and transmitted by the transmit antenna 420.

[0062] exist Figure 2 and Figure 4 The image shows four antennas. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The diagram illustrates two power amplifiers coupled to an antenna. Implementations are not limited to this. Generally, a UE may include N antennas and M power amplifiers. Each antenna may be controllably coupled to one or more of the M power amplifiers. One of these antennas may be controllably coupled to two or more power amplifiers. The number of power amplifiers for each antenna may vary depending on the antenna.

[0063] Figure 5 An example of a graph 500 illustrating the performance of different antenna-power amplifier selections according to some embodiments is shown. Graph 500 can be generated using a device characterization process (described further below) and helps identify the value of a threshold 530 for use given a set of transmit parameters and power output. At runtime, given the set of transmit parameters, the value of threshold 530 can be determined and compared with the power output to select the optimal power amplifier.

[0064] The horizontal axis of graph 500 represents the antenna power output in dBm. The vertical axis of graph 500 represents the current consumption of the power amplifier in amperes (or more generally, the power consumption of the power amplifier). Graph 500 includes two curves: a first curve (shown as a solid line) showing the current consumption of a first power amplifier (e.g., first power amplifier (1) 310) as a function of the antenna's (e.g., antenna 320); and a second curve (shown as a dashed line) showing the current consumption of a second power amplifier (e.g., second power amplifier (2) 312) as a function of the antenna's power output. The two amplifiers can be controllably coupled to the antenna. Each curve corresponds to a selected combination of power amplifier and antenna (e.g., corresponding to...). Figure 4 (Choose one of the two options, 401 or 402).

[0065] exist Figure 5 In the example, the first power amplifier typically has higher power consumption for the same antenna output compared to the second power amplifier, and can contribute to higher signal amplification (e.g., unlike the second power amplifier, the contribution of the second power amplifier is not limited to 20 dBm and can extend to about 22 dBm). Conversely, the second power amplifier typically has lower power consumption for the same antenna output compared to the first power amplifier, but may not contribute to higher signal amplification (e.g., unlike the first power amplifier, the contribution of the second power amplifier is limited to about 20 dBm).

[0066] The capping point corresponds to a point on the horizontal axis beyond which a more efficient power amplifier (e.g., a second power amplifier in this case) becomes unable to support the antenna's desired power output. This capping point can also be referred to as the switching point and is used to define the value of the threshold 530. For example, this value can be set equal to the capping point or within a range of the capping point (e.g., plus / minus ten percent). Figure 16 In the example, the value can be set to 19.5dBm.

[0067] In the example, threshold 530 allows the definition of two regions: a power benefit region 510 (for any power output with a value greater than threshold 530) and a power efficiency region 520 (for any power output with a value less than threshold 530). Each of the two regions 510 can be associated with the selection of one of two power amplifiers. Figure 5In the illustration, power efficiency region 510 is associated with a first power amplifier (which has relatively lower power efficiency but stronger signal amplification capability). In contrast, power efficiency region 520 is associated with a second power amplifier (i.e., which has relatively higher power efficiency while having the same signal amplification capability as the first power amplifier in region 520).

[0068] If the UE selects an antenna and is requested to use a specific power output, this power output can be compared with the value of threshold 530. If the comparison indicates that the power output is greater than the value of threshold 530 (e.g., falling into power efficiency region 510), then the power amplifier associated with power efficiency region 510 (e.g., a first power amplifier) ​​is selected. If the comparison indicates that the power output is less than the value of threshold 530 (e.g., falling into power efficiency region 520), then the power amplifier associated with power efficiency region 520 (e.g., a second power amplifier) ​​is selected.

[0069] Although graph 500 only illustrates two curves and two regions (e.g., defined by a single threshold), different numbers of curves and / or regions can be used. For example, the number of curves may depend on the number of power amplifiers that can be controllably coupled to the antenna (e.g., they may be the same number). The number of regions may depend on the desired granularity of power output and current consumption in the control. For example, at low current consumption (e.g., less than 0.2 A), selecting an amplifier with lower power efficiency may be acceptable. In this case, the second threshold may be defined as approximately 11 dBm, such that power efficiency region 520 is divided into two regions (one region for power output less than 11 dBm and associated with the first power amplifier, and another region for power output between 11 dBm and 19.5 dBm and associated with the second power amplifier).

[0070] Figure 500 illustrates the characterization of a specific characterization parameter (e.g., current consumption) as a function of a particular transmission optimization parameter (e.g., power output). However, the implementation is not limited to this and can be similarly applied to other types of characterization parameters and / or other transmission optimization parameters. Such other types of parameters have been described above. One or more characterization parameters may be defined as a function of one or more transmission optimization parameters or modeled using one or more transmission optimization parameters.

[0071] Figure 6An example of an environment for characterizing a UE to enable antenna-power amplifier selection is illustrated according to some embodiments. The UE can be a DUT of the same type (e.g., the type corresponding to UE 204) and undergoing a device characterization process. Once the process is complete, the UE of this type (e.g., UE 204) can use the obtained characterization data when selecting a power amplifier for transmission via the antenna. The device characterization process may collect transmit power measurements for different sets of transmit parameters (e.g., antenna power output and amplifier current consumption), and thresholds can be determined based on these transmit power measurements. Reference Figure 5 This figure illustrates a specific example of a combination of two power amplifiers and antennas, and a transmission power measurement for a set of power transmission parameters, from which a single threshold is defined. Similar characterization can be performed across multiple DUTs, transmission parameter sets, and / or power amplifier-antenna combinations. As described above, characterization is not required to be limited to current consumption and power output, but can be similarly and equivalently applied to one or more characterization parameters and one or more transmission optimization parameters.

[0072] The environment may correspond to an offline environment (e.g., a laboratory or test environment) including system 606 and base station 608. Base station 608 may be, but is not necessarily, a component of system 606. System 606 may include computing resources (e.g., servers, cloud-based computing resources, etc.) and test equipment (e.g., power meters, power analyzers, network analyzers, etc.). Base station 608 may, but is not necessarily, operate under the control of system 606 (e.g., system 606 may instruct base station 608 to transmit power output requests 610, each power output request indicating the power output for transmission via an antenna). DUT 604 may undergo testing as part of a device characterization process.

[0073] Given a range of attack (RAT), frequency band, and frequency bandwidth, base station 608 may transmit a power output request to DUT 604. DUT 604 may then select (e.g., under the control of system 606 or independently of system 606) an antenna and power amplifier to transmit at the requested power output. Test equipment of system 606 coupled to DUT 604 can measure the power consumption (e.g., current consumption) of the power amplifier required to achieve the requested power output, and optionally, measure the actual power output of the antenna. Therefore, system 606 can collect the power output, the requested power output, and optionally, the actual power output for the selected antenna and selected power amplifier, and for a specific RAT, frequency band, and frequency bandwidth. This measurement information may be collected as part of transmit power measurement 630. Transmit power measurement 630 may include similar measurement information derived for different antennas, power amplifiers, RATs, frequency bands, frequency bandwidths, power consumption, requested power output, and DUTs of the same type (specifically, the corresponding antenna, power amplifier, RAT, frequency band, frequency bandwidth, power consumption, requested power output, and possible actual power output).

[0074] System 606 can execute a set of applications and / or algorithms to generate characterization data from transmit power measurement 630. For example, for a set of transmit parameters (e.g., the same RAT, the same frequency band, the same frequency bandwidth, the same antenna on DUT 604 and the corresponding same antenna on other DUTs, and the same power amplifier on DUT 604 and the corresponding same power amplifier on other DUTs), system 606 can determine the measured power consumption (e.g., current consumption) for each power output (requested or measured). Statistical metrics (e.g., average, median, etc.) can be applied to the power output to generate the power consumption for each power output for the set of transmit parameters. This process can be repeated for the same set of transmit parameters to determine the power consumption across different power outputs. Given other transmit parameters, the maximum power output can be set as the capped vertex of the power amplifier, and the corresponding power consumption can be recorded. This process can be repeated for different sets of transmit parameters, thereby enabling the definition of regions and thresholds across different sets of transmit parameters. Specifically, for the same antenna, RAT, band, and frequency bandwidth, and for two or more different power amplifiers, the corresponding power consumption and power output (including capped vertices) can be compared to define regions, thereby enabling the definition of thresholds, which are then associated with the two or more amplifiers, as well as the antenna, RAT, band, and frequency bandwidth.

[0075] The output of the processing may include characterization data. For a set of transmission parameters including one or more of the RAT, antenna, frequency band, and frequency bandwidth used for transmission, the characterization data may indicate the value of the threshold to be used and which power amplifier to use, depending on how the requested power output compares to that value (e.g., whether it is greater than or less than that value). System 606 may organize the characterization data in LUT 640. Figure 7 An example of this LUT 640 is further shown below.

[0076] For UE 607 of the same type as DUT, a copy of LUT 640 (shown as LUT 642) may be stored by UE 607 for runtime use. This LUT 642 may be delivered over the air (OTA) or stored in memory as part of the manufacture or supply of UE 607.

[0077] Figure 7 An example of characterization data for enabling antenna-power amplifier selection according to some implementation schemes is illustrated. The characterization data may be organized in a LUT 700, which includes multiple fields in a column arrangement. These fields identify the RAT, frequency band, frequency bandwidth (e.g., in MHz), antenna, threshold (e.g., dBM), peak performance power amplifier, and power-efficient power amplifier. Each entry (e.g., the intersection of rows and columns) stores the value of the field corresponding to the column.

[0078] RAT, frequency band, frequency bandwidth, and antenna represent the set of transmission parameters that can be used to find the threshold value. Based on this value, a power amplifier identified in the Peak Performance Power Amplifier field or the Power Efficiency Power Amplifier field is selected.

[0079] For illustration, consider that a UE storing LUT 700 needs to use NR as the RAT, n41 as the frequency bandwidth, and 40MHz as the bandwidth to transmit data. Also consider that the UE selects antenna "2" for this transmission. The UE can form a set of transmission parameters with values ​​{NR, n41, 40, 2} and look up LUT 700. The lookup result indicates a threshold value of 20dBm, and if the requested power output exceeds this value, a first power amplifier (which has lower power efficiency but higher signal amplification) will be used; otherwise, a second power amplifier (e.g., which has higher power efficiency but lower signal amplification) will be used. If the base station requests a power output greater than 20dBm (or the UE measures its actual power output at antenna "2" and determines that the actual power output is greater than 20dBm), the UE selects the first power amplifier for transmission. If the base station requests a power output of less than 20dBm (or the UE measures its actual power output at antenna "2" and determines that the actual power output is less than 20dBm), the UE selects the second power amplifier for transmission.

[0080] In another example, the UE can default to using a power amplifier with lower power efficiency but higher signal amplification capability. The UE can perform a LUT lookup and only switch to using the higher power efficiency but lower signal amplification capability amplifier if the threshold power output comparison indicates that the threshold value is smaller. Returning to reference {NR,n41,40,2}, by default, the UE uses the first power amplifier without comparing the power output with the 20dBm threshold. However, once a comparison is performed, if the power output is greater than 20dBm, the UE continues to use the first power amplifier. Otherwise, the UE switches to using the second power amplifier.

[0081] LUT 700 is provided for illustrative purposes only. This LUT can identify other RATs, bands, antennas, thresholds, and / or power amplifiers. Generally, only certain bands are subject to power amplifier selection, and therefore, it is not necessary to define LUT 700 for all bands. For the same band and antenna, the threshold and / or power amplifier selection may vary depending on the bandwidth and / or antenna. Figure 7 In the example, for {NR, n41, 2}, the threshold is 22.5 dBm for a 100 MHz bandwidth and 20.5 dBm for a 60 MHz bandwidth. Similarly, the threshold and / or power amplifier selection may differ for different frequency bands (and possibly the same or different antennas). In other words, for two different values ​​of the same transmission parameter (e.g., NR and LTE, n41 and n77, 100 MHz and 60 MHz antennas (1) and (2), etc.), the values ​​of the threshold and / or power amplifier selection may differ depending on the values ​​of other transmission parameters.

[0082] The LUT 700 is described by combining transmission parameters (e.g., RAT, band, frequency bandwidth, and antenna), a threshold, and the power amplifier selected for the target power output given the power amplifier current consumption. As described above, current consumption is one example of a characterization parameter, and the target power output is one example of a transmission optimization parameter. Implementations are not limited to this. Instead, the LUT 700 can be similarly defined for one or more characterization parameters and one or more transmission optimization parameters. For example, for thermal characteristics as a characterization parameter and target power output as a transmission optimization parameter, the same transmission parameters can be found in the LUT in addition to the threshold, and the power amplifier to be selected is identified based on a comparison of the threshold and the target power output, where this selection is based on thermal characteristics. In another example, for user preference as a characterization parameter and target power output as a transmission optimization parameter, the same transmission parameters can be found in the LUT in addition to the threshold, and the power amplifier to be selected is identified based on a comparison of the threshold and the target power output, where this selection is based on user preference.

[0083] Furthermore, LUT 700 is an example data structure for organizing characterization data. Other data structures are also possible. Regardless of the implemented data structure, the UE can use the characterization data to determine the power amplifier to select in real time.

[0084] Figure 8 Examples of operational flow / algorithm structures 800 for characterizing a UE, implemented by a system (or apparatus of a system, wherein the apparatus includes processing circuitry) according to some embodiments, are illustrated. The system may be... Figure 6 An example of system 606. The UE may be a DUT. In some embodiments, the operation flow / algorithm structure 800 may be implemented by executing instructions stored in a tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium (such as the system's memory). Although the operation flow / algorithm structure 800 is described using a specific sequence of steps, it should be understood that the steps described herein are contemplated to be performed in a different sequence than illustrated, and that some described steps may be omitted or not performed at all.

[0085] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 800 includes, at 802, performing a current scan for each power amplifier of the UE, wherein the current scan is performed for each frequency band, frequency bandwidth, antenna, and / or RAT. For example, the system may include or instruct the base station to request a specific power output for transmissions performed by the UE. Transmissions may use specific RATs, frequency bands, frequency bandwidths, and antennas. Given a power amplifier used for transmission, the system may measure or receive transmission power measurements indicating the current consumption of the power amplifier, the requested power output, and optionally the actual power output of the antenna. Such transmission power measurements may be repeated and collected for each frequency band, frequency bandwidth, antenna, and / or RAT, and may be repeated and collected for different power amplifiers.

[0086] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 800 includes generating a LUT at 804 for the power amplifier efficiency switching point. For example, and as... Figure 6 As described, transmit power measurements can be processed to determine the switching point and corresponding current consumption for each power amplifier for each frequency band, frequency bandwidth, antenna, and / or RAT. At least two power amplifiers and the switching points for each frequency band, frequency bandwidth, antenna, and / or RAT can be compared to define at least one threshold, and the corresponding current consumption can be compared to determine which power amplifier has higher or lower power efficiency, allowing the power amplifier to be associated with a relevant region defined by the threshold. The resulting characterization data can be organized in a LUT, wherein the LUT can employ a LUT 700 arrangement.

[0087] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 800 includes a storage of the LUT at 806. For example, the LUT may be transmitted to the UE via OTA after manufacturing, or it may be downloaded to the UE during manufacturing and stored there for runtime use.

[0088] The operational flow / algorithm structure 800 is described in conjunction with the transmit antenna power output and the current consumption in a given power amplifier current consumption. As described above, the current consumption is one example of a characterization parameter, and the target power output is one example of a transmit optimization parameter. Implementations are not limited to this. Instead, the operational flow / algorithm structure 800 can be similarly executed for one or more characterization parameters and one or more transmit optimization parameters.

[0089] Figure 9Examples of an operational flow / algorithm structure 900 for selecting a power amplifier for data transmission via an antenna, implemented by a UE (or a device of the UE, wherein the device includes processing circuitry), are illustrated according to some embodiments. The UE may be an example of any of the UEs described herein. In some embodiments, the operational flow / algorithm structure 900 may be implemented by executing instructions stored in a tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium (such as the memory of the UE). Although the operational flow / algorithm structure 900 is described using a specific sequence of steps, it should be understood that the steps described herein are contemplated to be performed in a different sequence than illustrated, and that some described steps may be omitted or not performed at all.

[0090] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 900 includes determining at 910 the frequency band, frequency bandwidth, antenna, and / or RAT to be used for uplink transmission. For example, the frequency band, frequency bandwidth, and / or RAT may be determined based on Radio Resource Control configuration and / or DCI. The antenna may be provided by, for example... Figure 1 The antenna selector of the UE is used for selection.

[0091] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 900 includes a threshold lookup at 912. For example, values ​​for the frequency band (e.g., its identifier, such as "n41"), frequency bandwidth (e.g., "100MHz"), antenna (e.g., its identifier, such as "2"), and RAT (e.g., its identifier, such as "NR") can be used for the LUT lookup. The LUT may be stored by the UE and may have been generated according to the operation flow / algorithm structure 800. The LUT may store the value of the threshold corresponding to the values ​​of the frequency band, frequency bandwidth, and / or RAT (e.g., "22.5dBm"). The result of the lookup may include this value and may include an indication of which power amplifier to select when comparing the power output to this value of the threshold.

[0092] In the example, the operational flow / algorithm structure 900 includes monitoring the power output over a moving window at 920. The moving window can be a period of time (e.g., 5 milliseconds, 500 milliseconds, etc.) that is repeatedly shifted (e.g., every 2.5 milliseconds, every 250 milliseconds, etc.) and used to determine a statistical metric (e.g., average, median) of the power output. This avoids altering the power amplifier selection in the event of instantaneous and brief changes in power output. The power output can be the power output requested by the base station (e.g., the average or median of the requested power margin over that period) or the actual power output measured at the antenna (e.g., the average or median of the measured power margin over that period).

[0093] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 900 includes comparing the power output with a threshold at 922. This comparison can be repeated each time the window shifts. A statistical metric (e.g., mean or median) is compared with the value of the threshold. If this metric is greater than the value, the operation flow / algorithm structure 900 can flow to 930. Otherwise, the operation flow / algorithm structure 900 can flow to 940.

[0094] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 900 includes switching to a peak performance power amplifier at 930. For values ​​of frequency band (e.g., its identifier, such as "n41"), frequency bandwidth (e.g., "100MHz"), antenna (e.g., its identifier, such as "2"), and RAT (e.g., its identifier, such as "NR"), the LUT can identify the peak performance power amplifier (e.g., "PA1") to be used when the power output value is greater than a threshold value. This identifier can be returned as part of the initial lookup result or as part of the result of a second lookup of the LUT. The UE can select this power amplifier (e.g., "PA1") and controllably couple the power amplifier to the antenna such that the signal is amplified by the selected power amplifier before transmission.

[0095] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 900 includes switching to a power-efficient power amplifier at 940. For values ​​of frequency band (e.g., its identifier, such as "n41"), frequency bandwidth (e.g., "100MHz"), antenna (e.g., its identifier, such as "2"), and RAT (e.g., its identifier, such as "NR"), the LUT can identify the power-efficient power amplifier (e.g., "PA2") to be used when the power output value is less than a threshold value. This identifier can be returned as part of the initial lookup result or as part of the result of a second lookup of the LUT. The UE can select this power amplifier (e.g., "PA2") and controllably couple it to the antenna such that the signal is amplified by the selected power amplifier before transmission.

[0096] The operational flow / algorithm structure 900 is described by combining the transmit antenna power output and the current consumption in a given power amplifier current consumption. As described above, the current consumption is one example of a characterization parameter, and the target power output is one example of a transmit optimization parameter. Implementations are not limited to this. Instead, the operational flow / algorithm structure 900 can be similarly performed for one or more characterization parameters and one or more transmit optimization parameters.

[0097] Figure 10Examples of an operational flow / algorithm structure 1000 for antenna-power amplifier selection according to some embodiments are illustrated. The operational flow / algorithm structure 1000 may be implemented by a UE (or a device of a UE, wherein the device includes processing circuitry). The UE may be an example of any of the UEs described herein. In some embodiments, the operational flow / algorithm structure 1000 may be implemented by executing instructions stored in a tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium (such as the memory of the UE). Although the operational flow / algorithm structure 1000 is described using a specific sequence of steps, it should be understood that the steps described herein are contemplated to be performed in a different sequence than illustrated, and some described steps may be omitted or not performed at all.

[0098] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 1000 includes processing the base station's request for power output at 1002. For example, this request is received in the DCI and indicates the power margin for uplink transmission.

[0099] In the example, the operational flow / algorithm structure 1000 includes comparing the power output with a threshold associated with the power amplifier at 1004. For example, a moving window can be used to generate a statistical measure (e.g., average or median) of the power output requested over time. Alternatively, a moving window can be used to generate a statistical measure (e.g., average or median) of the power output measured over time, where each power output in such power data is measured at the antenna and corresponds to the requested power output. Given a set of transmission parameters (e.g., RAT, band, frequency bandwidth, and antenna) associated with the uplink transmission at the requested power output, a LUT (or more generally, characterization data) can be looked up to determine the value of the threshold. The value of the power output and the value of the threshold can be compared.

[0100] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 1000 includes, at 1006, selecting a power amplifier from multiple power amplifiers coupled to the antenna based on the results of a comparison. For example, if the power output value is greater than a threshold value, a first power amplifier (e.g., a peak performance power amplifier) ​​is selected. Otherwise, a second power amplifier (e.g., a power-efficient power amplifier) ​​is selected. The LUT (or more generally, characterization data) can identify which power amplifier to select based on the results of the comparison.

[0101] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 1000 includes at 1008 that data is transmitted to the base station by using at least a power amplifier and an antenna. For example, the signal encoding the data is generated by components of the RF front end (e.g., modulator, multiplexer, local oscillator, etc.), amplified by the selected power amplifier, and transmitted by the antenna.

[0102] Figure 11Another example of an operational flow / algorithm structure 1100 for antenna-power amplifier selection according to some embodiments is illustrated. The operational flow / algorithm structure 1100 may be implemented by a base station (or a means of a base station, wherein the means includes processing circuitry). The base station may be an example of the base station 108 described herein. In some embodiments, the operational flow / algorithm structure 1100 may be implemented by executing instructions stored in a tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium (such as the memory of a base station). Although the operational flow / algorithm structure 1100 is described using a specific sequence of steps, it should be understood that the steps described herein are contemplated to be performed in a different sequence than illustrated, and that some described steps may be omitted or not performed at all.

[0103] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 1100 includes transmitting a request for power output to the user equipment (UE) at 1102. For example, this request is transmitted in the DCI.

[0104] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 1100 includes receiving data transmitted by the UE using the UE's power amplifier and antenna at 1104, wherein the power amplifier is selected from multiple power amplifiers of the UE based on a comparison of power output with a threshold, wherein the threshold is associated with the power amplifier usage. For example, receiving data in a signal, wherein the signal is amplified by a power amplifier and transmitted via an antenna. The UE can select the amplifier according to the operation flow / algorithm structure 1000.

[0105] Figure 12 An example of an operational flow / algorithm structure 1200 for UE characterization according to some implementation schemes is illustrated. The operational flow / algorithm structure 1200 may be implemented by a system (or a system apparatus, wherein the apparatus includes processing circuitry). The system may be... Figure 6 An example of system 606. The representation can be performed using a UE, which may be a DUT. In some embodiments, the operation flow / algorithm structure 1200 can be implemented by executing instructions stored in a tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium (such as the system's memory). Although the operation flow / algorithm structure 1200 is described using a specific sequence of steps, it should be understood that the steps described herein are contemplated to be performed in a different sequence than illustrated, and some described steps may be omitted or not performed at all.

[0106] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 1200 includes, at 1202, generating a first transmit power measurement for the antenna when the antenna is coupled to the first power amplifier, wherein the first transmit power measurement corresponds to a first power consumption of the first power amplifier. For example, given a set of transmit parameters (e.g., a specific RAT, band, and frequency bandwidth in addition to the antenna) and a requested power output, a UE including the antenna and the first power amplifier performs uplink transmission. The current consumption of the first power amplifier used to amplify the signal for uplink transmission can be measured. The power output of the antenna used for uplink transmission can also be measured. The first transmit power measurement may include a current consumption measurement of the first power amplifier, the requested power, and optionally, the measured power.

[0107] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 1200 includes, at 1204, generating a second transmit power measurement for the antenna when the antenna is coupled to the second power amplifier, wherein the second transmit power measurement corresponds to a second power consumption of the second power amplifier. For example, given the same set of transmit parameters (e.g., a specific RAT, band, and frequency bandwidth in addition to the antenna) and the same requested power output, a UE further including a second power amplifier performs another uplink transmit. The current consumption of the second power amplifier used to amplify the signal for uplink transmit can be measured. The power output of the antenna used for uplink transmit can also be measured. The second transmit power measurement may include a current consumption measurement of the second power amplifier, the requested power, and optionally, the measured power.

[0108] Similar transmit power measurements can be collected for each power amplifier of the UE and for each antenna, RAT, frequency band, frequency bandwidth, and each requested power output.

[0109] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 1200 includes determining a threshold associated with power amplifier selection at 1206 based on a first transmit power measurement and a second transmit power measurement. For example, as... Figure 6 As described, these two measurements, as well as all other possible transmit power measurements, can be processed to determine the switching point, define a threshold, and associate the power amplifier with the region defined by the threshold.

[0110] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 1200 includes generating data at 1208 indicating a threshold, wherein this data also indicates a power amplifier selection from a first power amplifier and a second power amplifier based on a comparison of the threshold with the antenna's power output. For example, the data could be characterization data that can be organized in a LUT. LUT 700 is an example of such an arrangement.

[0111] In the example, the operational flow / algorithm structure 1200 includes, at 1210, enabling a device to store data, wherein the device includes one or more antennas and multiple power amplifiers. For example, the data may be transmitted to the device via OTA after device manufacturing is complete (e.g., for a UE of the same type as the DUT), or stored in the device as part of device manufacturing (e.g., stored in the device's memory). Of course, the representation can be repeated across multiple DUTs before the final data is stored at the device.

[0112] Figure 13 Examples of operational flow / algorithm structures 1300 conforming to UE characterization according to some embodiments are illustrated. Operational flow / algorithm structures 1300 may be implemented by a device (or means of a device, wherein the means includes processing circuitry). The device may be an example of any of the UEs described herein. In some embodiments, operational flow / algorithm structures 1300 may be implemented by executing instructions stored in a tangible, non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium (such as the memory of a device). Although operational flow / algorithm structures 1300 are described using a specific sequence of steps, it should be understood that the steps described herein are contemplated to be performed in a different sequence than illustrated, and some described steps may be omitted or not performed at all.

[0113] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 1300 includes, at 1302, receiving data from the system that associates power amplifier selection with a threshold. This data enables the device to select a power amplifier from a plurality of power amplifiers used to transmit data via the antenna when comparing the threshold with the power output of the device's antenna. This power amplifier is generated based on power transmission measurements corresponding to different antenna-power amplifier couplings. The system may be... Figure 6 The example of system 606. The data may be representation data organized in a LUT (e.g., LUT 700) after the device representation process that implements the operation flow / algorithm structure 1200.

[0114] In the example, the operation flow / algorithm structure 1300 includes storing data in the device's memory at 1304. For example, the data may be stored in the device's non-volatile memory and used at runtime to select a power amplifier according to the operation flow / algorithm structure 1000.

[0115] UE 1400 may be similar to and substantially interchangeable with any of the UEs described above herein. Specifically, UE 1400 may include multiple antennas and power amplifiers, with selectable antennas for uplink transmission and selectable power amplifiers to amplify the signals to be transmitted in uplink transmission. Power amplifier selection may be based on a set of transmission parameters (e.g., antenna, RAT, frequency band, and / or frequency bandwidth) and the power output requested for uplink transmission.

[0116] The UE 1400 can be any mobile or non-mobile computing device, such as a mobile phone, computer, tablet, industrial wireless sensors (e.g., microphones, carbon dioxide sensors, pressure sensors, humidity sensors, thermometers, motion sensors, accelerometers, laser scanners, fluid level sensors, stock sensors, voltmeters / ammeters, actuators, etc.), video surveillance / monitoring devices (e.g., cameras, camcorders, etc.), wearable devices, or loosely coupled IoT devices. In some implementations, the UE can be a reduced-capacity UE, an NR-Light UE, or an environmental IoT device.

[0117] UE 1400 may include a processor 1404, RF interface circuitry 1408, memory / storage device 1412, user interface 1416, sensor 1420, drive circuitry 1422, power management integrated circuit (PMIC) 1424, and battery 1428. The processor 1404 or portions thereof may represent processing circuitry that can be coupled to an RF chain to form an MR or LP-WUR. Components of UE 1400 may be implemented as integrated circuits (ICs), portions of integrated circuits, discrete electronic devices or other modules, logic components, hardware, software, firmware, or combinations thereof. Figure 14 The block diagram is intended to show a simplified view of some of the components of the UE 1400. However, some of the components shown may be omitted, additional components may be present, and different arrangements of the components shown may occur in other specific implementations.

[0118] The components of UE 1400 can be coupled to a variety of other components via one or more interconnects 1432, which can represent any type of interface, input / output, bus (local, system, or extended), transmit line, trace, optical connection, etc., allowing various circuit components (on common or different chips or chipsets) to interact with each other.

[0119] Processor 1404 may include processor circuitry such as baseband processor circuitry (BB) 1404A, central processing unit circuitry (CPU) 1404B, and graphics processing unit circuitry (GPU) 1404C. Processor 1404 may include any type of circuitry or processor circuitry that executes or otherwise operates computer-executable instructions (such as program code, software modules, or functional procedures from memory / storage device 1412) to cause UE 1400 to perform the operations described herein.

[0120] In some implementations, the baseband processor circuit 1404A can access the communication protocol stack 1436 in the memory / storage device 1412 to communicate over a 3GPP-compliant network. Generally, the baseband processor circuit 1404A can access the communication protocol stack to perform user plane functions at the PHY, MAC, RLC, PDC, SDAP, and PDU layers; and control plane functions at the PHY, MAC, RLC, PDCP, RRC, and Non-Access Stratum (NAS) layers. In some implementations, PHY layer operation may additionally / optionally be performed by components of the RF interface circuit 1408.

[0121] The baseband processor circuit 1404A can generate or process baseband signals or waveforms carrying information in a 3GPP-compliant network. In some implementations, the waveform used for NR may be based on cyclic prefix OFDM (CP-OFDM) in the uplink or downlink, and Discrete Fourier Transform Extended OFDM (DFT-S-OFDM) in the uplink.

[0122] The baseband processor circuit 1404A can also access group information from the memory / storage device 1412 to determine multiple repeated search space groups in which PDCCH can be sent.

[0123] Memory / storage device 1412 may include any type of volatile or non-volatile memory that can be distributed throughout the UE 1400. In some embodiments, some memory / storage devices 1412 may be located on the processor 1404 itself (e.g., L1 cache and L2 cache), while other memory / storage devices 1412 may be located outside the processor 1404 but accessible via a memory interface. Memory / storage device 1412 may include any suitable volatile or non-volatile memory, such as, but not limited to, dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, solid-state memory, or any other type of memory device technology.

[0124] RF interface circuitry 1408 may include transceiver circuitry and a radio frequency front-end module (RFEM) that allows UE 1400 to communicate with other devices via a radio access network. RF interface circuitry 1408 may include various components arranged in the transmit or receive path. These components may include, for example, switches, mixers, amplifiers, filters, synthesizer circuitry, control circuitry, etc.

[0125] In the receiving path, the RFEM can receive the radiated signal from the air interface via antenna 1450 and continue to filter and amplify the signal (using a low-noise amplifier). This signal can be provided to the receiver of the transceiver, which downconverts the RF signal into a baseband signal that is provided to the baseband processor of processor 1404.

[0126] In the transmission path, the transceiver's transmitter up-converts the baseband signal received from the baseband processor and provides the RF signal to the RFEM. The RFEM can then amplify the RF signal using a power amplifier before it is radiated across the air interface via antenna 1450.

[0127] In various implementations, the RF interface circuit 1408 can be configured to transmit / receive signals in a manner compatible with NR access technology.

[0128] Antenna 1450 may include multiple antenna elements, each of which converts an electrical signal into radio waves to travel through the air and converts received radio waves back into electrical signals. These antenna elements may be arranged in one or more antenna panels. Antenna 1450 may have omnidirectional, directional, or combinations thereof antenna panels to enable beamforming and multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) communication. Antenna 1450 may include microstrip antennas, printed antennas fabricated on the surface of one or more printed circuit boards, patch antennas, phased array antennas, etc. Antenna 1450 may have one or more panels designed for a specific frequency band included in FR1 or FR2.

[0129] User interface circuitry 1416 includes various input / output (I / O) devices designed to enable a user to interact with UE 1400. User interface 1416 includes input device circuitry and output device circuitry. Input device circuitry includes any physical or virtual components for accepting input, particularly one or more physical or virtual buttons (e.g., a reset button), a physical keyboard, keypad, mouse, touchpad, touchscreen, microphone, scanner, or headset. Output device circuitry includes any physical or virtual components for displaying or otherwise transmitting information (such as sensor readings, actuator positions, or other similar information). Output device circuitry may include any number or combination of audio or visual displays, particularly one or more simple visual outputs / indicators (e.g., binary status indicators, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and multi-character visual outputs) or more complex outputs such as display devices or touchscreens (e.g., liquid crystal displays (LCDs), LED displays, quantum dot displays, projectors, etc.), wherein the output of characters, graphics, multimedia objects, etc., is generated or produced by the operation of UE 1400.

[0130] Sensor 1420 may include a device, module, or subsystem intended to detect events or changes in its environment and transmit information (sensor data) about the detected events to another device, module, subsystem, etc. Examples of such sensors include, in particular, inertial measurement units, which include accelerometers; gyroscopes; or magnetometers; microelectromechanical systems or nanoelectromechanical systems including: triaxial accelerometers; triaxial gyroscopes; or magnetometers; level sensors; flow sensors; temperature sensors (e.g., thermistors); pressure sensors; barometric pressure sensors; gravimeters; altimeters; image capture devices (e.g., cameras or lensless apertures); light detection and ranging sensors; proximity sensors (e.g., infrared radiation detectors, etc.); depth sensors; ambient light sensors; ultrasonic transceivers; microphones or other similar audio capture devices; and so on.

[0131] The driving circuitry 1422 may include software and hardware elements for controlling specific devices embedded in, attached to, or otherwise communicatively coupled to the UE 1400. The driving circuitry 1422 may include various drivers that allow other components to interact with or control various input / output (I / O) devices that may exist within or be connected to the UE 1400. For example, the driving circuitry 1422 may include: a display driver for controlling and allowing access to a display device; a touchscreen driver for controlling and allowing access to a touchscreen interface; a sensor driver for obtaining sensor readings from the sensor circuitry 1420 and controlling and allowing access to the sensor circuitry 1420; a driver for obtaining actuator positioning of an electromechanical component or controlling and allowing access to an electromechanical component; a camera driver for controlling and allowing access to an embedded image capture device; and an audio driver for controlling and allowing access to one or more audio devices.

[0132] The PMIC 1424 manages the power supplied to various components of the UE 1400. Specifically, relative to the processor 1404, the PMIC 1424 controls power selection, voltage scaling, battery charging, or DC-DC conversion.

[0133] In some implementations, the PMIC 1424 can control or otherwise become part of various power-saving mechanisms of the UE 1400. For example, if the platform UE is in the RRC_Connected state, where it remains connected to the RAN node as it anticipates receiving traffic soon, it can enter a state known as Discontinuous Receive Mode (DRX) after a period of inactivity. During this state, the UE 1400 can power down for short intervals, thus saving power. If there is no data traffic activity during a longer period, the UE 1400 can transition to the RRC_Idle state, where the UE disconnects from the network and does not perform operations such as channel quality feedback or handover. The UE 1400 enters a very low-power state, and the UE performs paging, where it periodically wakes up again to listen to the network and then power down again. The UE 1400 may not receive data in this state; to receive data, the platform must transition back to the RRC_Connected state. Additional power-saving modes can render the device unusable from the network for periods exceeding the paging interval (from seconds to hours). During this period, the device is completely unable to connect to the network and can be completely powered off. Any data transmitted during this time will result in significant latency, which is assumed to be acceptable.

[0134] Battery 1428 can power UE 1400, but in some examples, UE 1400 may be installed and deployed in a fixed location and may have a power source coupled to the power grid. Battery 1428 may be a lithium-ion battery, a metal-air battery (such as zinc-air batteries, aluminum-air batteries, lithium-air batteries, etc.). In some specific implementations, such as in vehicle-based applications, battery 1428 may be a typical lead-acid automotive battery.

[0135] Figure 15 An example of a base station 1500 according to some implementation schemes is shown. Base station 1500 can be connected to... Figure 1 Base station 108 is similar to and largely interchangeable with the other base stations described above. Specifically, base station 1500 may request the UE to transmit at a specific power output. Based on this request and other factors, the UE may select a power amplifier to amplify the uplink signal so that the request is satisfied.

[0136] Base station 1500 may include processor 1504, RAN interface circuit 1508, core network (CN) interface circuit 1512 and memory / storage device circuit 1516.

[0137] The components of base station 1500 can be coupled to various other components via one or more interconnects 1528.

[0138] Processor 1504, RAN interface circuit 1508, memory / storage device circuit 1516 (including communication protocol stack 1510), antenna 1550, and interconnector 1528 can be connected to... Figure 14 Similar named elements are shown and described.

[0139] The CN interface circuit 1512 can provide connectivity to a core network (e.g., a 5GC using a fifth-generation core network (5GC) compatible network interface protocol (such as Carrier Ethernet protocol) or some other suitable protocol). Network connectivity can be provided to / from base station 1500 via fiber optic or wireless backhaul. The CN interface circuit 1512 may include one or more dedicated processors or FPGAs for communicating using one or more of the aforementioned protocols. In some implementations, the CN interface circuit 1512 may include multiple controllers for providing connectivity to other networks using the same or different protocols.

[0140] As is widely recognized, the use of personally identifiable information should comply with privacy policies and practices that are generally accepted to meet or exceed industry or governmental requirements for protecting user privacy. Specifically, personally identifiable information data should be managed and processed to minimize the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly explained to users.

[0141] For one or more embodiments, at least one component of the components shown in one or more of the foregoing figures may be configured to perform one or more operations, techniques, processes, or methods described in the Embodiments section below. For example, the baseband circuitry described above in conjunction with one or more of the foregoing figures may be configured to operate according to one or more examples below. Similarly, circuitry associated with the UE, base station, network element, etc., described above in conjunction with one or more of the foregoing figures may be configured to operate according to one or more embodiments described in the Embodiments section below.

[0142] Figure 16 System 1600 is illustrated according to some implementation schemes. System 1600 is an example of the systems described above, such as system 606. For example, system 1600 can be used during device characterization to generate a LUT. System 1600 can deliver the LUT to a device for use during operation when selecting a power amplifier.

[0143] In the example, system 1600 may include at least a processor 1602, memory 1604, input / output peripherals (I / O) 1606, communication peripherals 1608, and a power supply 1610. Power supply 1610 may include power storage components and / or interconnects to an external power supply. An interface bus may be configured to communicate, send, and transmit data, control, and commands between the various components of system 1600. Memory 1604 may include computer-readable storage media such as RAM; ROM; electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM); hard disk drive; CD-ROM; optical storage devices; magnetic storage devices; electronic non-volatile computer storage devices, such as... Memory; and other tangible storage media. Any such computer-readable storage medium may be configured to store instructions or program code embodying aspects of this disclosure. Memory 1604 may also include computer-readable signal media. Computer-readable signal media include propagated data signals containing computer-readable program code. Such propagated signals may take any of a variety of forms, including but not limited to electromagnetic, optical, or any combination thereof. Computer-readable signal media include any computer-readable medium that is not a computer-readable storage medium but can convey, propagate, or transmit a program for use in conjunction with system 1600.

[0144] In addition, memory 1604 includes an operating system, programs, and applications. Processor 1602 is configured to execute stored instructions and includes, for example, a logic processing unit, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor, and other processors. I / O peripherals 1606 may include user interfaces such as light sources; alarm devices; keyboards; screens (e.g., touchscreens); microphones; speakers; other input / output devices; and computing components such as graphics processing units; serial ports; parallel ports; universal serial buses; and other input / output peripherals. Communication peripherals 1608 are configured to facilitate communication between system 1600 and other systems via a communication network and include, for example, network interface controllers, modems, wireless and wired interface cards, antennas, and other communication peripherals.

[0145] Example

[0146] Further exemplary implementations are provided in the following sections.

[0147] Example 1 includes a method comprising: processing a request for power output from a base station; comparing the power output with a threshold associated with the use of a power amplifier; selecting a power amplifier from a plurality of power amplifiers coupled to an antenna based on the result of the comparison; and transmitting data to the base station by using at least the power amplifier and the antenna.

[0148] Example 2 includes a method comprising: processing a request for power output from a base station; comparing the power output with a threshold associated with the use of a power amplifier; selecting a power amplifier from a first power amplifier coupled to an antenna and a second power amplifier coupled to an antenna based on the result of the comparison; and causing data to be transmitted to the base station by using at least the power amplifier and the antenna.

[0149] Example 3 includes a method comprising: transmitting a request for power output to a user equipment (UE); and receiving data transmitted using a power amplifier and an antenna of the UE, wherein the power amplifier is selected from a plurality of power amplifiers of the UE based on a comparison of the power output with a threshold, wherein the threshold is associated with the use of the power amplifier.

[0150] Example 4 includes the method according to any Example 1 or 2, the method further comprising: determining a set of transmission parameters associated with transmitting the data; and determining a value of the threshold based on the set of parameters.

[0151] Example 5 includes the method according to Example 4, wherein the set of transmission parameters includes at least one of the following: radio access technology (RAT), frequency band, bandwidth, or the antenna.

[0152] Example 6 includes the method according to Example 4, wherein the value is determined based on a lookup of characterization data stored in a memory, wherein the characterization data is defined based on an offline characterization process and the value is associated with at least a radio access technology (RAT), frequency band, bandwidth, and the antenna.

[0153] Example 7 includes the method according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the threshold corresponds to a power level above which a power amplifier switching from a first power amplifier to a second power amplifier will occur among the plurality of power amplifiers.

[0154] Example 8 includes the method according to Example 7, wherein the result of the comparison indicates that the power output is greater than the power level, and wherein the power amplifier is selected as the first power amplifier, such that the power amplifier switching is abandoned.

[0155] Example 9 includes the method according to Example 7, wherein the result of the comparison indicates that the power output is less than the power level, and wherein the power amplifier is selected as the second power amplifier, such that the power amplifier switching is performed.

[0156] Example 10 includes the method according to any of the foregoing embodiments, the method further comprising: processing or causing processing of additional power output requests received by the base station during a certain time period; and determining or causing the power output to be determined as an average value of the requested power output during the time period.

[0157] Example 11 includes the method according to any of the foregoing embodiments, the method further comprising: determining or causing a power level transmitted via the antenna during a certain time period; and determining or causing the power output to be determined as an average value of the power level during the time period.

[0158] Example 12 includes the method according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the result of the comparison indicates that the power output is less than the threshold, and wherein the power amplifier is selected as a first power amplifier having lower power loss than a second power amplifier among the plurality of power amplifiers.

[0159] Example 13 includes the method according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the result of the comparison indicates that the power output is less than the threshold, and wherein the power amplifier is selected as a first power amplifier, the first power amplifier being physically closer to the antenna than a second power amplifier among the plurality of power amplifiers.

[0160] Example 14 includes the method according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the result of the comparison indicates that the power output is less than the threshold, and wherein the power amplifier is selected as a first power amplifier having a lower current consumption than a second power amplifier among the plurality of power amplifiers.

[0161] Example 15 includes the method according to any of the foregoing embodiments, the method further comprising: determining or causing to determine that the first antenna will be used instead of the second antenna to transmit the data; and determining the value of the threshold based on or causing to determine based on a lookup of characterization data, the lookup using an identifier of the first antenna, the characterization data associating the value with a set of transmission parameters.

[0162] Example 16 includes the method according to Example 15, the method further comprising: determining or causing a frequency band to be used for the transmission of the data, wherein the lookup also uses an identifier of the frequency band.

[0163] Example 17 includes the method according to Example 15, the method further comprising: determining or causing a frequency bandwidth to be used for the transmission of the data, wherein the lookup also uses a value of the frequency bandwidth.

[0164] Example 18 includes the method according to Example 15, the method further comprising: determining or causing the determination of a radio access technology (RAT) for the transmission of the data, wherein the lookup also uses an identifier of the RAT.

[0165] Example 19 includes the method according to any of the foregoing embodiments, the method further comprising: storing or causing the storage to associate the threshold with a set of transmission parameters, wherein the characterization data indicates the value of the threshold for one or more values ​​of the set of transmission parameters.

[0166] Example 20 includes the method according to Example 19, wherein the characterization data further indicates, for the one or more values ​​of the transmission parameter set, which of the first power amplifier and the second power amplifier will be used when the power output is greater than the threshold, and which of the first power amplifier and the second power amplifier will be used when the power output is less than the threshold.

[0167] Example 21 includes a method comprising: generating a first transmit power measurement for the antenna when the antenna is coupled to a first power amplifier, wherein the first transmit power measurement corresponds to a first power consumption of the first power amplifier; generating a second transmit power measurement for the antenna when the antenna is coupled to a second power amplifier, wherein the second transmit power measurement corresponds to a second power consumption of the second power amplifier; determining a threshold associated with power amplifier selection based on the first transmit power measurement and the second transmit power measurement; generating data indicating the threshold, wherein the data further indicates the power amplifier selection from the first power amplifier and the second power amplifier based on a comparison of the threshold with the power output of the antenna; and causing a device to store the data, wherein the device includes one or more antennas and a plurality of power amplifiers.

[0168] Example 22 includes a method comprising: generating a first transmit power measurement for the antenna when the antenna is coupled to a first power amplifier, wherein the first transmit power measurement corresponds to a first power consumption of the first power amplifier; generating a second transmit power measurement for the antenna when the antenna is coupled to a second power amplifier, wherein the second transmit power measurement corresponds to a second power consumption of the second power amplifier; determining a threshold associated with power amplifier selection based on the first transmit power measurement and the second transmit power measurement; and generating data indicating the threshold, wherein the data further indicates the power amplifier selection from the first power amplifier and the second power amplifier based on a comparison of the threshold with the power output of the antenna.

[0169] Example 23 includes a method implemented as follows: receiving data from a system that associates power amplifier selection with a threshold, the data enabling the device to select a power amplifier from a plurality of power amplifiers of the device when comparing the threshold with the power output of the device's antenna, the power amplifier being used to transmit data via the antenna, the data being generated based on power transmission measurements corresponding to different antenna-power amplifier couplings; and storing the data in the device's memory.

[0170] Example 24 includes the method according to any of the preceding Examples 21 to 23, wherein the first transmit power measurement is generated using a device under test (DUT), wherein the data is generated for a device type corresponding to the DUT and the device.

[0171] Example 25 includes the method according to any of the preceding Examples 21 to 24, wherein the first transmit power measurement is generated by using at least a set of transmit parameters, wherein the data associates the set of transmit parameters with the threshold.

[0172] Example 26 includes the method according to Example 25, wherein the second transmit power measurement is generated by at least also using the set of transmit parameters.

[0173] Example 27 includes the method according to Example 25, wherein the set of transmission parameters includes at least one of the following: radio access technology (RAT), frequency band, bandwidth, or the antenna.

[0174] Example 28 includes the method according to Example 27, wherein the data indicates the value of the threshold for one or more values ​​of the set of transmission parameters.

[0175] Example 29 includes the method according to Example 28, wherein the data further indicates, for the one or more values ​​of the transmission parameter set, which of the first power amplifier and the second power amplifier will be used for data transmission when the power output is greater than the threshold, and which of the first power amplifier and the second power amplifier will be used for data transmission when the power output is less than the threshold.

[0176] Example 30 includes the method according to any of the preceding Examples 21 to 29, wherein the data is generated as a lookup table (LUT), wherein the LUT associates the value of the threshold with the frequency band available in the data transmission.

[0177] Example 31 includes the method according to Example 30, wherein the LUT also associates the value of the threshold with the frequency bandwidth available in the data transmission.

[0178] Example 32 includes the method according to Example 30, wherein the LUT also associates the value of the threshold with an identifier of the antenna.

[0179] Example 33 includes the method according to Example 30, wherein the LUT also associates the value of the threshold with a radio access technology.

[0180] Example 34 includes the method according to Example 30, wherein the LUT indicates whether the first power amplifier or the second power amplifier will be used when comparing the power output with the value of the threshold.

[0181] Example 35 includes the method according to any of the preceding Examples 21 to 34, wherein the data is generated as a lookup table (LUT), wherein the LUT indicates at least one of the following for the same frequency band but for two different frequency bandwidths: different values ​​of the threshold or different power amplifier selections.

[0182] Example 36 includes the method according to any of the preceding Examples 21 to 35, wherein the data is generated as a lookup table (LUT), wherein the LUT indicates at least one of the following for two different frequency bands: different values ​​of the threshold or different power amplifier selections.

[0183] Example 37 includes the method according to any one of Examples 21 to 22, wherein the antenna is a first antenna, and the method further includes: generating a third transmit power measurement for the second antenna when the second antenna is coupled to a first power amplifier; and generating a fourth transmit power measurement for the second antenna when the second antenna is coupled to a second power amplifier, wherein the data associates a first value of the threshold with the first antenna and a second value of the threshold with the second antenna.

[0184] Example 38 includes the method according to any of the preceding Examples 21 to 37, wherein the data indicates that the first power amplifier will be selected when the power output is less than the threshold, and wherein the first power amplifier has lower power loss than the second power amplifier.

[0185] Example 39 includes the method according to any of the preceding Examples 21 to 38, wherein the data indicates that the first power amplifier will be selected when the power output is less than the threshold, and wherein the first power amplifier is physically closer to the antenna than the second power amplifier.

[0186] Example 40 includes the method according to any of the preceding Examples 21 to 39, wherein the data indicates that the first power amplifier will be selected when the power output is less than the threshold, and wherein the first power amplifier has a lower current consumption than the second power amplifier.

[0187] Example 41 includes a user equipment (UE) or device comprising: one or more processors; and one or more memories storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, configure the UE or device to perform the methods described in or related to any of the preceding embodiments.

[0188] Example 42 includes one or more computer-readable media storing instructions that, when executed on a user equipment (UE) or device, cause the UE or device to perform one or more elements of the methods described in or related to any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0189] Example 43 includes an apparatus comprising one or more elements for performing the methods described in or related to any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0190] Example 44 includes one or more non-transitory computer-readable media, the one or more non-transitory computer-readable media including instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of the device, cause the device to perform one or more elements of the method described in or related to any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0191] Example 45 includes an apparatus comprising one or more elements of a logic component, module, or processing circuit configured to perform the methods described in or associated with any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0192] Example 46 includes an apparatus, a network, a base station, or a system, wherein the apparatus, network, base station, or system comprises: one or more processors and one or more computer-readable media, the one or more computer-readable media comprising instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform one or more elements of the methods described in or related to any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0193] Unless otherwise expressly stated, any of the above embodiments may be combined with any other embodiment (or combination of embodiments). The foregoing description of one or more specific embodiments provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. In view of the teachings above, modifications and variations are possible, or modifications and variations may be obtained from the practice of various embodiments.

[0194] Although the above embodiments have been described in considerable detail, many variations and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the above disclosure is fully understood. It is intended that the following claims be construed as encompassing all such variations and modifications.

[0195] As is widely recognized, the use of personally identifiable information should comply with privacy policies and practices that are generally accepted to meet or exceed industry or governmental requirements for protecting user privacy. Specifically, personally identifiable information data should be managed and processed to minimize the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly explained to users.

Claims

1. An apparatus, the apparatus comprising: Processing circuit, the processing circuit being configured to: Handle the base station's request for power output; The power output is compared with the power amplifier using an associated threshold; Based on the results of the comparison, a power amplifier is selected from a plurality of power amplifiers coupled to the antenna; as well as Data is transmitted to the base station by using at least the power amplifier and the antenna.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing circuit is further configured to: Determine the set of transmission parameters associated with transmitting the data; and The value of the threshold is determined based on the set of sending parameters.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the set of transmission parameters includes at least one of the following: radio access technology (RAT), frequency band, bandwidth, or the antenna.

4. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the value is determined based on a lookup of characterization data stored in a memory, wherein the characterization data is defined based on an offline characterization process and associates the value with at least a radio access technology (RAT), frequency band, bandwidth, and the antenna.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the threshold corresponds to a power level above which a power amplifier switching from a first power amplifier to a second power amplifier will occur.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the result of the comparison indicates that the power output is greater than the power level, and wherein the power amplifier is selected as the first power amplifier such that the power amplifier switching is abandoned.

7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the result of the comparison indicates that the power output is less than the power level, and wherein the power amplifier is selected as the second power amplifier such that the power amplifier switching is performed.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the processing circuit is further configured to: Process additional power output requests received from the base station during a certain time period; and The power output is determined as the average value of the requested power output over the time period.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the processing circuit is further configured to: Determine the power level transmitted via the antenna during a certain time period; and The power output is determined as the average power level over the time period.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the result of the comparison indicates that the power output is less than the threshold, and wherein the power amplifier is selected as a first power amplifier having lower power loss than a second power amplifier among the plurality of power amplifiers.

11. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the result of the comparison indicates that the power output is less than the threshold, and wherein the power amplifier is selected as a first power amplifier, the first power amplifier being physically closer to the antenna than a second power amplifier among the plurality of power amplifiers.

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the result of the comparison indicates that the power output is less than the threshold, and wherein the power amplifier is selected as a first power amplifier having a lower current consumption than a second power amplifier among the plurality of power amplifiers.

13. An apparatus, said apparatus comprising: antenna; A first power amplifier, which is coupled to the antenna; A second power amplifier, which is coupled to the antenna; and Processing circuit, the processing circuit being configured to: Handle the base station's request for power output; The power output is compared with the power amplifier using an associated threshold; Based on the results of the comparison, a power amplifier is selected from the first power amplifier and the second power amplifier; as well as Data is transmitted to the base station by using at least the power amplifier and the antenna.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the antenna is a first antenna, and wherein the device further comprises: A second antenna is coupled to both the first power amplifier and the second power amplifier. The processing circuit is further configured as follows: It was determined that the first antenna, instead of the second antenna, would be used to transmit the data; and The value of the threshold is determined by looking up the characterization data, which uses the identifier of the first antenna, and the characterization data associates the value with a set of transmission parameters.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein the processing circuit is further configured to: The frequency band to be used for the transmission of the data is determined, wherein the lookup also uses an identifier for the frequency band.

16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the processing circuit is further configured to: The frequency bandwidth to be used for the transmission of the data is determined, wherein the lookup also uses the value of the frequency bandwidth.

17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the processing circuit is further configured to: The radio access technology (RAT) to be used for the transmission of the data is determined, wherein the lookup also uses an identifier of the RAT.

18. The device according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the processing circuit is further configured to: Store characterization data that associates the threshold with a set of transmission parameters, wherein the characterization data indicates the value of the threshold for one or more values ​​of the set of transmission parameters.

19. The device of claim 18, wherein the characterization data further indicates, with respect to one or more values ​​of the set of transmission parameters, which of the first power amplifier and the second power amplifier will be used when the power output is greater than the threshold, and which of the first power amplifier and the second power amplifier will be used when the power output is less than the threshold.

20. A method comprising: Transmit a request for power output to the user equipment (UE); as well as The UE receives data transmitted using the UE's power amplifier and antenna, wherein the power amplifier is selected from a plurality of power amplifiers of the UE based on a comparison of the power output with a threshold, wherein the threshold is associated with the use of the power amplifier.

Images