High frequency module and communication device

Abstract

Provided is a high-frequency module that supports a communication band of a ground system and a communication band of a non-ground system and that can be downsized. A high-frequency module (1) includes a switch (6), a first duplexer (11), and at least one or more second duplexers (12, 13) or at least one or more filters (14, 15). The first duplexer (11) is connected to the switch (6). The first duplexer (11) has a transmission filter (11T) and a reception filter (11R). The transmission filter (11T) has a passband that includes a transmission band of n255. The reception filter (11R) has a passband that includes a reception band of at least one of Band 75, Band 76, and Band 32 and a reception band of n255.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to high-frequency modules and communication devices, and more specifically, to high-frequency modules and communication devices that support communication frequency bands for terrestrial systems and communication frequency bands for non-terrestrial systems. Background Technology

[0002] The front-end module (high-frequency module) described in Patent Document 1 includes a broadband filter, a transmit filter, and a switch. The broadband filter allows the received signal from a first communication band (e.g., Band 20) and the received signal from a second communication band (e.g., Band 28) to pass through together. The transmit filter allows either the transmit signal from the first communication band or the transmit signal from the second communication band to pass through. The switch is selectively connected to the broadband filter and the transmit filter. In this way, the aforementioned front-end module supports the communication bands (e.g., Band 20 and Band 28) of the terrestrial system.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2019 / 176538 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] In recent years, the concept of using NTN (Non-Terrestrial Network) technology has been proposed. This concept utilizes communication satellites or HAPS (High Altitude Platform Stations) to achieve communication similar to that in urban areas, even in regions with poor communication (mountainous areas, sea areas, isolated islands, etc.). To realize this concept, the following solution has been proposed: In a front-end module that supports the receiving band of the communication band for terrestrial systems, as described in Patent Document 1, a receiving band for the communication band of non-terrestrial systems (n255) is also supported.

[0008] However, if the front-end module supporting the receiving band of the communication frequency band for terrestrial systems also supports the receiving band of non-terrestrial systems, then a separate receiving filter dedicated to the receiving band of the non-terrestrial system communication frequency band is required. This leads to the problem of a larger front-end module.

[0009] In view of the above problems, the object of the present invention is to provide a high-frequency module and communication device that can be miniaturized and supports the receiving frequency band of communication bands for terrestrial systems and communication bands for non-terrestrial systems.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] One aspect of the present invention relates to a high-frequency module comprising a switch, a first duplexer, and at least one second duplexer or at least one filter. The first duplexer is connected to the switch. The first duplexer has a transmit filter and a receive filter. The transmit filter has a passband including the transmit band of n255. The receive filter has a passband including at least one of Band 75, Band 76, and Band 32, and the receive band of n255.

[0012] One embodiment of the present invention involves a high-frequency module comprising an antenna terminal, a first switch, a first filter, and a second filter. The first switch has a first common terminal, a first selection terminal, and a second selection terminal. The first common terminal is connected to the antenna terminal. The first selection terminal and the second selection terminal are connectable to the first common terminal. The first filter is connected to the first selection terminal. The second filter is connected to the second selection terminal. A first passband of the first filter includes the transmit band of a first communication frequency band, which is a non-terrestrial network communication frequency band. A second passband of the second filter includes the receive band of the first communication frequency band and the receive band of a second communication frequency band. The second communication frequency band is a terrestrial network communication frequency band.

[0013] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a communication device comprising the aforementioned high-frequency module and signal processing circuitry. The signal processing circuitry is connected to the high-frequency module and performs signal processing on the high-frequency signals.

[0014] The effects of the invention

[0015] The high-frequency module and communication device according to the present invention have the advantages of supporting both the communication band of terrestrial systems and the communication band of non-terrestrial systems, and are miniaturized. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of the high-frequency module and communication device involved in Embodiment 1.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a magnified view of a portion of the aforementioned high-frequency module.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a partial enlarged view of the high-frequency module involved in Variation 1 of Implementation Method 1.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a partial enlarged view of the high-frequency module involved in Implementation Method 2.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a partial enlarged view of the high-frequency module involved in Implementation Method 3.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a partial enlarged view of the high-frequency module involved in Implementation Method 4.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a partial enlarged view of the high-frequency module involved in Variation 1 of Embodiment 4.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a block diagram of the high-frequency module involved in Implementation Method 5.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a block diagram of the high-frequency module involved in Variation 1 of Implementation Method 5.

[0025] Figure 10 This is a block diagram of the high-frequency module involved in Variation 2 of Implementation 5.

[0026] Figure 11 This is a block diagram of the high-frequency module involved in Implementation Method 6.

[0027] Figure 12 This is a block diagram of the high-frequency module involved in Implementation Method 7.

[0028] Figure 13 This is a block diagram of the high-frequency module involved in Implementation Method 8.

[0029] Figure 14 This is a block diagram of the high-frequency module involved in Implementation Method 9. Detailed Implementation

[0030] (Implementation Method 1)

[0031] The high-frequency module 1 and the communication device 25 according to Embodiment 1 will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] (1) Summary

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, the high-frequency module 1 involved in Embodiment 1 includes a switch 6, a first duplexer 11, and at least one (in Figure 1 In the example, there are two) second duplexers 12, 13 or at least one (in Figure 1 In this example, there are two filters, 14 and 15. A first duplexer 11 is connected to switch 6. The first duplexer 11 has a transmit filter 11T and a receive filter 11R. The transmit filter 11T has a passband that includes the transmit band of n255. The receive filter has a passband that includes at least one of Band 75, Band 76, and Band 32, as well as the receive band of n255.

[0034] According to this structure, the receiving bands of at least one of Band 75, Band 76, and Band 32 (hereinafter referred to as "Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32") and the receiving band of n255 can be made common using a receiving filter. Common banding means encompassing multiple communication bands within the passband of a single filter (receiving filter 11R in Embodiment 1). That is, the passband of receiving filter 11R includes the receiving bands of n255 and Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32. Therefore, compared to the case where each receiving filter supports the receiving band of n255 and the receiving bands of Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32 are separately provided, the high-frequency module can be miniaturized.

[0035] (2) Structure of the communication device

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, the communication device 25 is a communication device equipped with the high-frequency module 1. The communication device 25 is, for example, a portable terminal (e.g., a smartphone), but is not limited to portable terminals; it could also be a wearable terminal (e.g., a smartwatch). The high-frequency module 1 is, for example, a module capable of supporting both 4G (fourth-generation mobile communication) and 5G (fifth-generation mobile communication) standards. The 4G standard is, for example, 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project) or LTE (Long Term Evolution) standards. The 5G standard is, for example, 5G NR (New Radio).

[0037] In addition to the high-frequency module 1, the communication device 25 also has a signal processing circuit 2 and an antenna 3.

[0038] The high-frequency module 1 is configured to amplify the received signal (high-frequency signal) received by the antenna 3 and output it to the signal processing circuit 2. Additionally, the high-frequency module 1 is configured to amplify the transmitted signal (high-frequency signal) output from the signal processing circuit 2 and transmit it from the antenna 3. The high-frequency module 1 is controlled, for example, by the signal processing circuit 2.

[0039] Signal processing circuit 2 is connected to high-frequency module 1 and is configured to process the received signal output from high-frequency module 1. Additionally, signal processing circuit 2 is configured to process the transmitted signal output to high-frequency module 1. Signal processing circuit 2 includes RF (Radio Frequency) signal processing circuit 2a and baseband signal processing circuit 2b.

[0040] The RF signal processing circuit 2a is, for example, an RFIC (Radio Frequency Integrated Circuit) that processes high-frequency signals (transmit and receive signals). The RF signal processing circuit 2a performs down-conversion and other signal processing on the received signal output from the high-frequency module 1 and outputs the processed received signal to the baseband signal processing circuit 2b. Additionally, the RF signal processing circuit 2a performs up-conversion and other signal processing on the transmitted signal output from the baseband signal processing circuit 2b and outputs the processed transmitted signal to the high-frequency module 1.

[0041] The baseband signal processing circuit 2b is, for example, a BBIC (Baseband Integrated Circuit). The baseband signal processing circuit 2b outputs the received signal from the RF signal processing circuit 2a to the outside. This output signal (received signal) can be used as an image signal for image display or as an audio signal for communication. Additionally, the baseband signal processing circuit 2b generates a transmit signal based on the baseband signal (e.g., audio and image signals) input from the outside, and outputs the generated transmit signal to the RF signal processing circuit 2a.

[0042] (3) Structure of the high-frequency module

[0043] like Figure 1 As shown, the high-frequency module 1 has multiple external terminals 5a~5g, 5j, 5j and multiple electronic components. Figure 1 In the example, multiple electronic components include switches 6-10, a first duplexer 11, and one or more (in) Figure 1 In the example, there are two) second duplexers 12, 13, and one or more (in Figure 1 In the example, there are two filters (14, 15), and more than one (in...). Figure 1 In the example, there are two power amplifiers 17 and 18, and one or more (in Figure 1 In the example, there are five low-noise amplifiers (20-24).

[0044] External terminal 5a is the antenna terminal to which antenna 3 is connected. External terminals 5b and 5c are connected to the output section (not shown) of signal processing circuit 2 and are input terminals for receiving output signals (transmit signals) from the output section of signal processing circuit 2. External terminals 5d to 5g, 5i, and 5j are connected to the input section (not shown) of signal processing circuit 2 and are output terminals for outputting the received signals processed by high-frequency module 1 to the input section of signal processing circuit 2.

[0045] Furthermore, the "connection of A and B" mentioned in Implementation Method 1 is not limited to the case where A and B are directly connected, but also includes the case where A is indirectly connected to B via other electronic components. In addition, "connection of A and B" means that A and B are connected in a conductive manner (in other words, electrically connected).

[0046] Switch 6 is an antenna switch. Switch 6 is used to select the connection destination of external terminal 5a from the first duplexer 11, the second duplexers 12 and 13, and the filters 14 and 15. Switch 6 is, for example, a switch IC (Integrated Circuit). Switch 6 has a common terminal 6a and multiple (in...) Figure 1 (In this example, there are five) selection terminals 6b to 6f. The common terminal 6a can be selectively connected to at least one of the selection terminals 6b to 6f. The common terminal 6a is connected to the external terminal 5a. Selection terminal 6b is connected to the input / output section 11a of the first duplexer 11 (described later). Selection terminal 6c is connected to the first input / output section 15a of the filter 15 (described later). Selection terminal 6d is connected to the first input / output section 14a of the filter 14 (described later). Selection terminal 6e is connected to the input / output section 13a of the second duplexer 13 (described later). Selection terminal 6f is connected to the input / output section 12a of the second duplexer 12 (described later).

[0047] Switch 7 is a frequency band selection switch. Switch 7 is used to select the connection destination of the output section 17b of power amplifier 17 from the transmit filters 11T, 12T, and 13T described later. Switch 7 is, for example, a switch IC (Integrated Circuit). Switch 7 has a common terminal 7a and multiple (in...) Figure 1 In this example, there are three selection terminals: 7b, 7c, and 7d. The common terminal 7a can be selectively connected to at least one of the selection terminals 7b, 7c, and 7d. The common terminal 7a is connected to the output section 17b of the power amplifier 17. The selection terminal 7b is connected to the input section 12b of the transmit filter 12T (described later). The selection terminal 7c is connected to the input section 13b of the transmit filter 13T (described later). The selection terminal 7d is connected to the input section 11b of the transmit filter 11T (described later).

[0048] Switch 8 is a frequency band selection switch. Switch 8 is used to select the connection destination of the output section 17b of power amplifier 17 from filters 14 and 15. Additionally, switch 8 is used to select the connection destination of the common terminals 8b and 8c (described later) from filters 14 and 15. Switch 8 is, for example, a switch IC (Integrated Circuit). Switch 8 has multiple (in...) Figure 1 In the example, there are three) common terminals 8a~8c and multiple (in Figure 1In this example, there are two selection terminals 8d and 8e. Multiple common terminals 8a to 8c can be selectively connected to at least one of the multiple selection terminals 8d and 8e. Common terminal 8a is connected to the output section 18b of the power amplifier 18 (described later). Common terminals 8b and 8c are connected to the selection terminals 10c and 10d of the switch 10 (described later), respectively. Selection terminal 8d is connected to the second input / output section 14b of the filter 14 (described later). Selection terminal 8e is connected to the second input / output section 15b of the filter 15 (described later).

[0049] Switch 9 is used to select the connection destination of the input sections 21a and 22a of the low-noise amplifiers 21 and 22 from the receiving filters 12R and 13R described later. Switch 9 is, for example, a switch IC (Integrated Circuit). Switch 9 has multiple (in Figure 1 In the example, there are two) common terminals 9a and 9b and multiple (in Figure 1 In this example, there are two selection terminals 9c and 9d. Multiple common terminals 9a and 9b can be selectively connected to at least one of the multiple selection terminals 9c and 9d. Common terminal 9a is connected to the input section 21a of the low-noise amplifier 21. Common terminal 9b is connected to the input section 22a of the low-noise amplifier 22. Selection terminal 9c is connected to the output section 12c of the receiving filter 12R (described later). Selection terminal 9d is connected to the output section 13c of the receiving filter 13R (described later).

[0050] Switch 10 is used to select the connection destination of the input sections 23a and 24a of low-noise amplifiers 23 and 24 from the common terminals 8b and 8c of switch 8. That is, the connection destination of the input sections 23a and 24a of low-noise amplifiers 23 and 24 is selected from filters 14 and 15 via switches 8 and 10. Switch 10 is, for example, a switch IC (Integrated Circuit). Switch 10 has multiple (in...) Figure 1 In the example, there are two) common terminals 10a and 10b and multiple (in Figure 1 In this example, there are two selection terminals 10c and 10d. Multiple common terminals 10a and 10b can be selectively connected to at least one of the multiple selection terminals 9c and 9d. Common terminal 9a is connected to the input section 23a of the low-noise amplifier 23. Common terminal 10b is connected to the input section 24a of the low-noise amplifier 24. Selection terminals 10c and 10d are connected to the common terminals 8b and 8c of the switch 8, respectively.

[0051] The first duplexer 11 is an FDD (Frequency Division Duplex) filter. For example... Figure 2As shown, the first duplexer 11 has a transmit filter 11T and a receive filter 11R. The transmit filter 11T has a passband that includes the transmit band (also referred to as n255T) of the non-terrestrial system n255. n255T is 1626.5MHz to 1660.5MHz. The receive filter 11R has a passband that includes the receive band (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "receive band of Band75 / Band76 / Band32") of at least one of the terrestrial systems Band75, Band76, and Band32, and the receive band (also referred to as n255R) of the non-terrestrial system n255. Band75 is 1432MHz to 1517MHz. Band76 is 1427MHz to 1432MHz. Band32 is 1452MHz to 1496MHz. n255R is 1525MHz to 1559MHz.

[0052] The first duplexer 11 has an input / output section 11a, an input section 11b, and an output section 11c. The input / output section 11a functions as the output of the transmitting filter 11T and the input of the receiving filter 11R. The input / output section 11a is connected to the selection terminal 6b of the switch 6. The input section 11b functions as the input of the transmitting filter 11T and is connected to the selection terminal 7d of the switch 7. The output section 11c functions as the output of the receiving filter 11R and is connected to the input section 20a of the low-noise amplifier 20.

[0053] The transmitting filter 11T receives a signal (transmit signal) from the input unit 11b, restricts the input signal to the uplink communication band of n255, and outputs the passed signal from the input / output unit 11a. The receiving filter 11R receives a signal (receive signal) from the input / output unit 11a, restricts the input signal to the communication bands of n255R, Band 75, Band 76, and Band 32, and outputs the passed signal from the output unit 11c.

[0054] The second duplexer 12 is an FDD filter. The second duplexer 12 is different from the first duplexer 11. The second duplexer 12 is a terrestrial wave-enabled duplexer. The second duplexer 12 has a transmit filter 12T and a receive filter 12R. The transmit filter 12T has a passband that includes the transmit band of a first communication band of the terrestrial system. The transmit band of the first communication band is, for example, Band 1T or Band 3T. The receive filter 12R has a passband that includes the receive band of a second communication band of the terrestrial system. The second communication band can be the same as the first communication band or a different communication band. The receive band of the second communication band is, for example, Band 1R or Band 3R.

[0055] The second duplexer 12 has an input / output section 12a, an input section 12b, and an output section 12c. The input / output section 12a functions as the output of the transmitting filter 12T and the input of the receiving filter 12R. The input / output section 12a is connected to the selection terminal 6f of the switch 6. The input section 12b functions as the input of the transmitting filter 12T. The input section 12b is connected to the selection terminal 7b of the switch 7. The output section 12c functions as the output of the receiving filter 12R. The output section 12c is connected to the selection terminal 9c of the switch 9.

[0056] The transmitting filter 12T receives a signal (transmit signal) from the input section 12b, restricts the input signal to the transmit band of the first communication frequency band, and outputs the passed signal from the input / output section 12a. The receiving filter 12R receives a signal (receive signal) from the input / output section 12a, restricts the input signal to the receive band of the second communication frequency band, and outputs the passed signal from the output section 12c.

[0057] The second duplexer 13 is an FDD filter. The second duplexer 13 is different from the first duplexer 11. The second duplexer 13 is a terrestrial wave-supporting duplexer. The second duplexer 13 has a transmit filter 13T and a receive filter 13R. The transmit filter 13T has a passband that includes the transmit band of a third communication band of the terrestrial system. The transmit band of the third communication band is, for example, Band 25T or Band 66T+Band 70T. The receive filter 13R has a passband that includes the receive band of a fourth communication band of the terrestrial system. The fourth communication band can be the same as the third communication band or a different communication band. The receive band of the second communication band is, for example, Band 25R+Band 70R or Band 66R.

[0058] The second duplexer 13 has an input / output section 13a, an input section 13b, and an output section 13c. The input / output section 13a functions as the output of the transmitting filter 13T and the input of the receiving filter 13R. The input / output section 13a is connected to the selection terminal 6e of the switch 6. The input section 13b functions as the input of the transmitting filter 13T. The input section 13b is connected to the selection terminal 7c of the switch 7. The output section 13c functions as the output of the receiving filter 13R. The output section 13c is connected to the selection terminal 9d of the switch 9.

[0059] The transmitting filter 13T receives a signal (transmit signal) from the input unit 13b, restricts the input signal to the transmit band of the third communication frequency band, and outputs the passed signal from the input / output unit 13a. The receiving filter 13R receives a signal (receive signal) from the input / output unit 13a, restricts the input signal to the receive band of the fourth communication frequency band, and outputs the passed signal from the output unit 13c.

[0060] Filter 14 is, for example, a TDD (Time Division Duplex) filter. Filter 14 is, for example, a transceiver filter. Filter 14 has a passband that includes the transmit and receive bands of the fifth communication band of the ground system. The fifth transmit band is, for example, any one of Band 34, Band 39, Band 40, and Band 41. Filter 14 has a first input / output section 14a and a second input / output section 14b. The first input / output section 14a is connected to the selection terminal 6d of switch 6. The second input / output section 14b is connected to the selection terminal 8d of switch 8. Filter 14 receives a signal (received signal) from the first input / output section 14a, restricts the input signal to the receive band of the fifth communication band, and outputs the passed signal from the second input / output section 14b. Additionally, filter 14 receives a signal (transmitted signal) from the second input / output section 14b, restricts the input signal to the transmit band of the fifth communication band, and outputs the passed signal from the first input / output section 14a.

[0061] Filter 15 is a TDD filter. Filter 15 is, for example, a transceiver filter. Filter 15 has a passband that includes the transmit and receive bands of the sixth communication band of the terrestrial system. The sixth communication band is a communication band different from the fifth communication band, for example, any one of Band 34, Band 39, Band 40, and Band 41. Filter 15 has a first input / output section 15a and a second input / output section 15b. The first input / output section 15a is connected to the selection terminal 6c of switch 6. The second input / output section 15b is connected to the selection terminal 8e of switch 8. Filter 15 receives a signal (received signal) from the first input / output section 15a, restricts the input signal to the receive band of the sixth communication band, and outputs the passed signal from the second input / output section 15b. Additionally, filter 15 receives a signal (transmitted signal) from the second input / output section 15b, restricts the input signal to the transmit band of the sixth communication band, and outputs the passed signal from the first input / output section 15a.

[0062] A power amplifier 17 is disposed between external terminal 5b and common terminal 7a of switch 7. The power amplifier 17 has an input section 17a and an output section 17b. The input section 17a is connected to external terminal 5b. The output section 17b is connected to common terminal 7a of switch 7. The power amplifier 17 amplifies the signal (transmit signal) input to the input section 17a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 17b.

[0063] A power amplifier 18 is disposed between the external terminal 5c and the common terminal 8a of the switch 8. The power amplifier 18 has an input section 18a and an output section 18b. The input section 18a is connected to the external terminal 5c. The output section 18b is connected to the common terminal 8a of the switch 8. The power amplifier 18 amplifies the signal (transmit signal) input to the input section 18a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 18b.

[0064] The low-noise amplifier 20 is disposed between the output section 11c of the receiving filter 11R and the branch point N1 (see reference). Figure 2 Branch point N1 is connected to external terminal 5i via a first signal path M1 and to external terminal 5j via a second signal path M2. The low-noise amplifier 20 has an input section 20a and an output section 20b. The input section 20a is connected to the output section 11c of the receiving filter 11R. The output section 20b is connected to branch point N1. The low-noise amplifier 20 amplifies the signal (received signal) input to the input section 20a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 20b. Thus, the output signal of the output section 20b flows from branch point N1 through the first signal path M1 to external terminal 5i, and flows from branch point N1 through the second signal path M2 to external terminal 5j.

[0065] The first signal path M1 is used to transmit the received signal of the n255 communication band to the signal processing circuit 2. The signal flowing from the branch point N1 through the first signal path M1 is output to the signal processing circuit 2 from the external terminal 5i. Then, the n255 signal within the output signal is extracted in the signal processing circuit 2. The second signal path M2 is used to transmit the received Band75 / Band76 / Band32 signal to the signal processing circuit 2. The signal flowing from the branch point N1 through the second signal path M2 is output to the signal processing circuit 2 from the external terminal 5j. Then, the Band75 / Band76 / Band32 signal within the output signal is extracted in the signal processing circuit 2.

[0066] A low-noise amplifier 21 is disposed between the common terminal 9a of the switch 9 and the external terminal 5d. The low-noise amplifier 21 has an input section 21a and an output section 21b. The input section 21a is connected to the common terminal 9a of the switch 9. The output section 21b is connected to the external terminal 5d. The low-noise amplifier 21 amplifies the signal (received signal) input to the input section 21a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 21b.

[0067] A low-noise amplifier 22 is disposed between the common terminal 9b of the switch 9 and the external terminal 5e. The low-noise amplifier 22 has an input section 22a and an output section 22b. The input section 22a is connected to the common terminal 9b of the switch 9. The output section 22b is connected to the external terminal 5e. The low-noise amplifier 22 amplifies the signal (received signal) input to the input section 22a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 22b.

[0068] A low-noise amplifier 23 is disposed between the common terminal 10a of the switch 10 and the external terminal 5f. The low-noise amplifier 23 has an input section 23a and an output section 23b. The input section 23a is connected to the common terminal 10a of the switch 10. The output section 23b is connected to the external terminal 5f. The low-noise amplifier 23 amplifies the signal (received signal) input to the input section 23a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 23b.

[0069] A low-noise amplifier 24 is disposed between the common terminal 10b of the switch 10 and the external terminal 5g. The low-noise amplifier 24 has an input section 24a and an output section 24b. The input section 24a is connected to the common terminal 10b of the switch 10. The output section 24b is connected to the external terminal 5g. The low-noise amplifier 24 amplifies the signal (received signal) input to the input section 24a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 24b.

[0070] (4) Features of high frequency module 1

[0071] The high-frequency module 1 supports communication bands for terrestrial systems (e.g., Band 1, Band 3, Band 7, Band 25, Band 32, Band 40, Band 41, Band 70, Band 66, Band 75, Band 76, etc.) as well as communication bands for non-terrestrial systems (n255). More specifically, the high-frequency module 1 has a structure supporting the communication bands for terrestrial systems (receive filter 11R, second duplexers 12, 13, filters 14, 15) and a structure supporting the communication bands for non-terrestrial systems (receive filter 11R and transmit filter 11T). Furthermore, the communication band for non-terrestrial systems (n255) is made co-banded with the communication bands of terrestrial systems that are relatively close to the communication band of the non-terrestrial system (e.g., the communication bands of Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32), thereby at least a portion of the structure supporting the communication bands for terrestrial systems (e.g., receive filter 11R) is also used as a structure supporting the communication bands for non-terrestrial systems (receive filter 11R).

[0072] Furthermore, with the shared use of the receiving filter 11R, the low-noise amplifier 20 following the receiving filter 11R is also shared between the communication frequency band of the terrestrial system and the communication frequency band of the non-terrestrial system.

[0073] (5) Operation of high frequency module 1

[0074] Reference Figure 1 The operation of the characteristic part (first duplexer 11) of the high-frequency module 1 will be explained.

[0075] (5-1) Operation when receiving signals from each of the multiple communication frequency bands that are co-banded

[0076] In switch 6, common terminal 6a is connected to selection terminal 6b. When antenna 3 receives a signal in this state, the received signal (received signal) flows sequentially through antenna 3, switch 6, the receiving filter 11R of the first duplexer 11, and low-noise amplifier 20 before being output to branch point N1. At this time, the received signal is limited to the passband signal of the receiving filter 11R and amplified by low-noise amplifier 20.

[0077] Then, the signal output to branch point N1 branches at branch point N1, flowing to the first signal path M1 and the second signal path M2. The signal through the first signal path M1 is then output from external terminal 5i to signal processing circuit 2. The signal output from external terminal 5i to signal processing circuit 2 is then processed in signal processing circuit 2 to remove the common-frequency banded Band75 / Band76 / Band32 signals, thereby extracting the n255 signal. Additionally, the signal through the second signal path M2 is output from external terminal 5j to signal processing circuit 2. The signal output from external terminal 5j to signal processing circuit 2 is then processed in signal processing circuit 2 to remove the common-frequency banded n255 signals, thereby extracting the Band75 / Band76 / Band32 signals.

[0078] (5-2) Operation when sending the n255T signal

[0079] In switch 7, common terminal 7a is connected to selection terminal 7d. In switch 6, common terminal 6a is connected to selection terminal 6b. In this state, a transmit signal is input from signal processing circuit 2 to external terminal 5b. The transmit signal input to external terminal 5b then flows through power amplifier 17, switch 7, and transmit filter 11T, and is output to selection terminal 6b of switch 6. At this time, the transmit signal is amplified by power amplifier 17 and limited to the passband signal of transmit filter 11T. Then, the transmit signal output to selection terminal 6b of switch 6 is output from switch 6 to antenna 3 and transmitted from antenna 3.

[0080] (6) Effect

[0081] The high-frequency module 1 according to embodiment 1 includes a switch 6, a first duplexer 11, and at least one second duplexer 12, 13 or at least one filter 14, 15. The first duplexer 11 is connected to the switch 6. The first duplexer 11 has a transmit filter 11T and a receive filter 11R. The transmit filter 11T has a passband that includes the transmit frequency band of n255. The receive filter 11R has a passband that includes the receive frequency band of at least one of Band 75, Band 76 and Band 32 and the receive frequency band of n255.

[0082] According to this structure, the receiving frequency bands of at least one of Band 75, Band 76, and Band 32 (hereinafter referred to as "Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32") and the receiving frequency band of n255 can be made common via the receiving filter 11R. Common banding means encompassing multiple communication frequency bands within the passband of a single filter. That is, the passband of the receiving filter (11R) includes the receiving frequency bands of n255 and Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32. Therefore, compared to the case where each receiving filter supports the receiving frequency band of n255 and the receiving frequency bands of Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32 are separately provided, the high-frequency module 1 can be miniaturized.

[0083] The communication device 25 according to Embodiment 1 includes a high-frequency module 1 and a signal processing circuit 2. The signal processing circuit 2 is connected to the high-frequency module 1 and performs signal processing on the high-frequency signal. According to this structure, a communication device with the effect of a high-frequency module can be provided.

[0084] (7) Variation

[0085] A variation of Embodiment 1 will be described. In the following description, descriptions of structures identical to those in Embodiment 1 will be omitted, and the description will sometimes focus on structures different from those in Embodiment 1.

[0086] (7-1) Variation Example 1

[0087] (7-1-1) Structure

[0088] like Figure 3 As shown, the passband of the receiving filter 11R in Modified Example 1 further includes a communication frequency band (e.g., L1) used by GPS (Global Positioning System). That is, the passband of the receiving filter 11R in Modified Example 1 includes the receiving frequency band of n255R, the receiving frequency band of at least one of Band 75, Band 76, and Band 32 (hereinafter referred to as "Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32"), and the communication frequency band used by GPS. The communication frequency band of L1 is 1574.397MHz to 1576.442MHz, which is a communication frequency band relatively close to the ground system's communication frequency band (e.g., Band 75, Band 76, and Band 32) among the communication frequency bands used by GPS satellites. In other words, in Variation 1, the receiving band of n255R, the receiving band of Band75 / Band76 / Band32, and the communication band used by GPS (e.g., L1) are shared.

[0089] With this common banding, the passband of the receiver filter 11R in Modified Example 1 includes the receiver band of the communication bands of the ground system (the communication bands of Band75 / Band76 / Band32), the receiver band of n255 of the non-ground system, and the communication band for GPS (e.g., L1).

[0090] In addition, the low-noise amplifier 20 of Modification 1 can also be used as a low-noise amplifier for the communication bands (Band75 / Band76 / Band32) supporting ground systems, a low-noise amplifier for the n255 supporting non-ground systems, and a low-noise amplifier for the communication bands used for GPS.

[0091] In Modification 1, the signal output from external terminal 5i to signal processing circuit 2 is used to extract the GPS communication frequency band signal. Additionally, the signal output from external terminal 5j to signal processing circuit 2 is used to extract the n255R receiving frequency band signal and the Band75 / Band76 / Band32 receiving frequency band signal.

[0092] (7-1-2) Effect

[0093] In the high-frequency module 1 described in Modification 1, the passband of the receiving filter 11R also includes a communication frequency band for GPS (e.g., L1). According to this structure, compared to a receiving filter that also supports a communication frequency band for GPS, the high-frequency module can be miniaturized.

[0094] (Implementation Method 2)

[0095] (1) Structure

[0096] Reference Figure 4 The high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 2 will be described below. In the following description, the low-noise amplifier 20 according to the variation 1 of Embodiment 1 will be referred to as the first low-noise amplifier 20.

[0097] like Figure 4 As shown, the high-frequency module 1 involved in Embodiment 2 is different from the high-frequency module 1 involved in Modification 1 of Embodiment 1 (refer to...). Figure 3 Compared to the previous embodiment, it is identical in configuration except for the inclusion of a second low-noise amplifier 30. In the following description, the structure identical to that of Modification 1 of Embodiment 1 will be omitted, and the description will focus on the structure different from that of Modification 1.

[0098] A second low-noise amplifier 30 is disposed in the first signal path M1. More specifically, the second low-noise amplifier 30 is connected between the branch point N1 and the external terminal 5i. More specifically, the second low-noise amplifier 30 has an input section 30a and an output section 30b. The input section 30a is connected to the branch point N1. That is, the input section 30a is connected to the output section 20b of the first low-noise amplifier 20 via the branch point N1. The output section 30b is connected to the external terminal 5i. The second low-noise amplifier 30 amplifies the signal input to the input section 30a so that the signal in the communication frequency band for GPS contained in the signal becomes a predetermined signal strength (e.g., a signal strength suitable for demodulation), and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 30b.

[0099] (2) Actions

[0100] In the following description, actions that are the same as those in Modification 1 of Embodiment 1 will be omitted, and the description will focus on actions that are different from those in Modification 1.

[0101] The operation is explained when receiving signals from each of the multiple communication frequency bands that are co-banded. In the following explanation, it is assumed that the received signal strength of the communication frequency band used by GPS is weaker than the received signal strength of the remaining communication frequency bands (n255, Band75, Band76, Band32). Furthermore, in the following explanation, sometimes the signal from the communication frequency band used by GPS among the multiple co-banded communication frequency bands is referred to as the first signal, and the signals from the remaining communication frequency bands (n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) are referred to as the second signal.

[0102] In switch 6, common terminal 6a is connected to selection terminal 6b. When antenna 3 receives a signal in this state, the received signal (received signal) flows sequentially through antenna 3, switch 6, receiving filter 11R, and first low-noise amplifier 20, as in the case of operation in embodiment 1, and is output to branch point N1. At this time, the received signal is amplified by the first low-noise amplifier 20. Through this amplification, the signals of multiple communication frequency bands contained in the received signal are amplified, for example, at the same amplification rate. Through this amplification, the second signal contained in the received signal is amplified to a predetermined signal strength (e.g., a signal strength suitable for demodulation). However, since the received strength of the first signal is smaller than the second received strength, the first signal is not amplified to the predetermined signal strength (e.g., a signal strength suitable for demodulation). Furthermore, the predetermined signal strength for the second signal is assumed to be the same as the predetermined signal strength for the first signal, but it may also be a different signal strength.

[0103] Then, the signal output to branch point N1 branches from branch point N1 to the first signal path M1 and the second signal path M2. The received signal through the first signal path M1 is then further amplified by the second low-noise amplifier 30. Through this amplification, the signal strength of the first signal contained in the received signal is amplified to a predetermined signal strength (e.g., a signal strength suitable for demodulation). The received signal amplified by the second low-noise amplifier 30 then flows through the first signal path M1 and is output from the external terminal 5i to the signal processing circuit 2. The signal processing circuit 2 then extracts the signal of the communication frequency band used for GPS from the received signal output from the external terminal 5i and demodulates the extracted signal. During this demodulation, the first signal contained in the received signal is amplified to a predetermined signal strength, and therefore is stably demodulated by the signal processing circuit 2.

[0104] Additionally, the received signal via the second signal path M2 is output from external terminal 5j to signal processing circuit 2. Signal processing circuit 2 extracts the second signal from the received signal output from external terminal 5j and demodulates the extracted signal. During this demodulation, the second signal contained in the received signal is amplified to a predetermined signal strength, and thus is stably demodulated by signal processing circuit 2.

[0105] In Embodiment 2, the signals of each of the multiple communication frequency bands that are co-banded are amplified, for example, by the first low-noise amplifier 20 with the same amplification rate. However, the received signal strength (below -130 dBm) of the GPS communication frequency band among the signals of the multiple co-banded communication frequency bands is lower than the received signal strength of the remaining communication frequency bands (for example, the received signal strength of the n255 communication frequency band is around -110 dBm). Therefore, when the signals of the remaining communication frequency bands are amplified to a predetermined signal strength by the first low-noise amplifier 20, the signal of the GPS communication frequency band is not amplified to the predetermined signal strength. Therefore, the signal of the GPS communication frequency band is further amplified by the second low-noise amplifier 30, thereby amplifying the signal of the GPS communication frequency band to the predetermined signal strength. Thus, by combining the first low-noise amplifier 20 and the second low-noise amplifier 30, the signals of each of the aforementioned multiple communication frequency bands are amplified to the predetermined signal strength.

[0106] (3) Effect

[0107] The high-frequency module 1 in embodiment 2 further includes a first low-noise amplifier 20, a first signal path M1 and a second signal path M2, and a second low-noise amplifier 30. The first low-noise amplifier 20 is connected to the receiving filter 11R. The second low-noise amplifier 30 is disposed in the first signal path M1, which branches off from the first signal path M1 and the second signal path M2 at a position later than the first low-noise amplifier 20, and amplifies the signal in the communication frequency band used for GPS.

[0108] According to this structure, the signals of each communication frequency band (GPS(L1), n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) of the multiple communication frequency bands that are common-banded can be amplified by a shared first low-noise amplifier 20. Furthermore, the signal of the GPS communication frequency band passing through the first signal path M1 can be amplified by a second low-noise amplifier 30. Therefore, even if the received signal strength of the GPS communication frequency band is lower than that of the remaining communication frequency bands (n255, Band75, Band76, Band32), the signals of each of the aforementioned multiple communication frequency bands can be amplified to a signal strength suitable for signal processing (e.g., demodulation) by the first low-noise amplifier 20 and the second low-noise amplifier 30.

[0109] (4) Variations

[0110] Next, a variation of Embodiment 2 will be described. In the following description, descriptions of structures identical to those in Embodiment 2 will be omitted, and descriptions will focus on structures different from those in Embodiment 2.

[0111] (4-1) Variation Example 1

[0112] In Modification 1, the second low-noise amplifier 30 further amplifies the received signal during the operation of the second low-noise amplifier 30 in Embodiment 2, such that the signal strength of the second signal (the signal of the remaining communication frequency band), which becomes a useless wave when the first signal (the signal in the communication frequency band used for GPS) is demodulated in the signal processing circuit 2, is smaller than the signal strength of the first signal. That is, in Modification 1, the second low-noise amplifier 30 amplifies the received signal so that the first signal is amplified to a predetermined signal strength, and the signal strength of the second signal, which becomes a useless wave, is smaller than the signal strength of the first signal.

[0113] More specifically, in Modification 1, the gain curve of the second low-noise amplifier 30 is adjusted such that the first signal is amplified to a specified signal strength, and the signal strength of the second signal is smaller than that of the first signal.

[0114] In Modification 1, as described above, the second low-noise amplifier 30 amplifies the received signal such that the first signal is amplified to a predetermined signal strength, and the signal strength of the second signal, which becomes a useless wave, is smaller than the signal strength of the first signal. Therefore, when the first signal contained in the received signal output from the external terminal 5i is processed (e.g., demodulated) by the signal processing circuit 2, the signal strength of the second signal, which becomes a useless wave, is smaller than the signal strength of the first signal, thus enabling more stable signal processing (e.g., demodulation) of the first signal.

[0115] Furthermore, in Modification 1, the received signal is amplified by adjusting the gain curve of the second low-noise amplifier 30, so that the first signal is amplified to a predetermined signal strength, and the signal strength of the second signal, which becomes a useless wave, is smaller than the signal strength of the first signal. However, this method of amplifying the received signal is not limited to adjusting the gain curve of the second low-noise amplifier 30. For example, as a method of amplifying the received signal as described above, a method of providing a first capacitor and a second capacitor (not shown) in the pre-stage of the input section 30a of the second low-noise amplifier 30 can also be used. In this method, the first capacitor is connected in series with the first signal path M1. The second capacitor is connected between the first signal path M1 and ground. Alternatively, as a method of amplifying the received signal as described above, a notch filter can also be provided in the pre-stage of the input section 30a of the second low-noise amplifier 30.

[0116] (Implementation Method 3)

[0117] Reference Figure 5 The high-frequency module 1 involved in Implementation Method 3 will be described.

[0118] (1) Structure

[0119] like Figure 5 As shown, the high-frequency module 1 involved in Embodiment 3 is different from the high-frequency module 1 involved in Modification 1 of Embodiment 1 (refer to...). Figure 3 Compared to the previous embodiment, it is similarly configured except that it also includes a splitter 40 (also called a distributor) and a variable attenuator 41 (also called an adjustable attenuator). In the following description, the structure that is the same as that of the modified embodiment 1 will be omitted, and the description will focus on the structure that is different from the modified embodiment 1 described above.

[0120] Demultiplexer 40 splits the output signal of low-noise amplifier 20 into a first signal and a second signal. The first signal is the signal of the communication frequency band used by GPS. The second signal is the signal of the communication frequency band other than the communication frequency band used by GPS (n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) among the multiple communication frequency bands that are co-banded.

[0121] The demultiplexer 40 has an input section 40a, a first output section 40b, and a second output section 40c. The input section 40a is connected to the output section 20b of the low-noise amplifier 20. The first output section 40b is connected to an external terminal 5i via a first signal path M1. The second output section 40c is connected to an external terminal 5j via a second signal path M2. The demultiplexer 40 demultiplexes a first signal from the output signal of the low-noise amplifier 20 input to the input section 40a and outputs the demultiplexed first signal from the first output section 40b to the first signal path M1. Additionally, the demultiplexer 40 demultiplexes a second signal from the output signal of the low-noise amplifier 20 input to the input section 40a and outputs the demultiplexed second signal from the second output section 40c to the second signal path M2.

[0122] Variable attenuator 41 attenuates the second signal output to the second signal path M2. More specifically, variable attenuator 41 is disposed in the second signal path M2. Variable attenuator 41 has an input section 41a and an output section 41b. Input section 41a is connected to the second output section 40c of demultiplexer 40 via a portion of the second signal path M2. Output section 41b is connected to external terminal 5j via the remaining portion of the second signal path M2. Variable attenuator 41 attenuates the second signal input to input section 41a and outputs the attenuated second signal from output section 41b. Variable attenuator 41 can adjust the amount of attenuation when attenuating the signal (second signal) input to input section 41a according to control from a predetermined controller or manual setting.

[0123] (2) Actions

[0124] In the following description, actions that are the same as those in Modification 1 of Embodiment 1 will be omitted, and the description will focus on actions that are different from those in Modification 1.

[0125] The operation will be explained when receiving signals from each of the multiple communication frequency bands that are co-banded. In the following explanation, it is assumed that the received strength of the first signal is weaker than that of the second signal.

[0126] In switch 6, common terminal 6a is connected to selection terminal 6b. When antenna 3 receives a signal in this state, the received signal (received signal) flows sequentially through antenna 3, switch 6, the receiving filter 11R of the first duplexer 11, and low-noise amplifier 20 before being output to demultiplexer 40. At this time, the received signal is amplified by low-noise amplifier 20. Through this amplification, the signals of each of the multiple communication frequency bands contained in the received signal are amplified, for example, by the same amplification rate. Through this amplification, the first signal contained in the received signal is amplified to a predetermined signal strength (e.g., a signal strength suitable for demodulation), and the second signal contained in the received signal is amplified to a signal strength greater than the predetermined signal strength.

[0127] Then, the first signal and the second signal are separated from the received signal by the demultiplexer 40. The separated first signal is output from the demultiplexer 40 through the first signal path M1 from the external terminal 5i to the signal processing circuit 2. The signal processing circuit 2 performs signal processing (e.g., demodulation) on the first signal output from the external terminal 5i. During this signal processing, the first signal is amplified to a predetermined signal strength (e.g., a signal strength suitable for signal processing), so that the first signal is stably processed.

[0128] Additionally, the second signal, split by the demultiplexer 40, is output from the demultiplexer 40 through the second signal path M2 to the variable attenuator 41. The second signal output to the variable attenuator 41 is then attenuated to a predetermined signal strength. The attenuated second signal is then output from the external terminal 5j to the signal processing circuit 2. The signal processing circuit 2 performs signal processing (e.g., demodulation) on the second signal output from the external terminal 5j. During this signal processing, the second signal is amplified to a predetermined signal strength (e.g., a signal strength suitable for signal processing), thus the second signal is stably processed.

[0129] (3) Effect

[0130] The high-frequency module 1 according to embodiment 3 includes a low-noise amplifier 20, a demultiplexer 40, and a variable attenuator 41. The low-noise amplifier 20 is connected to the output section 11c of the receiving filter 11R. The demultiplexer 40 demultiplexes the output signal of the low-noise amplifier 20 to output a first signal in the communication frequency band used for GPS to a first signal path M1, and demultiplexes the output signal of the low-noise amplifier 20 to output a second signal in at least one of the communication frequency bands n255, Band75, Band76, and Band32 to a second signal path M2. The variable attenuator 41 is disposed in the second signal path M2 to attenuate the second signal.

[0131] According to this structure, the signals of each communication band of the multiple communication bands (GPS(L1), n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) that are co-banded can be amplified by a shared low-noise amplifier 20. This allows for miniaturization of the high-frequency module 1. Furthermore, the second signal split by the demultiplexer 40 to the second signal path M2 can be attenuated using a variable attenuator 41. Therefore, even if the received signal strength of the communication band used for GPS is lower than that of the remaining communication bands (n255, Band75, Band76, Band32), the signals of each communication band of the multiple co-banded communication bands can be amplified to a signal strength suitable for signal processing (e.g., demodulation). As a result, stable signal processing can be performed on the signals of each of the aforementioned multiple communication bands.

[0132] (4) Variations

[0133] Next, a variation of Embodiment 3 will be described. In the following description, descriptions of structures identical to those in Embodiment 3 will be omitted, and descriptions will focus on structures different from those in Embodiment 3.

[0134] (4-1) Variation Example 1

[0135] Regarding the high-frequency module 1 involved in Modification Example 1, a variable attenuator is also provided in the first signal path M1 in the high-frequency module 1 involved in Embodiment 3. That is, the high-frequency module 1 involved in Modification Example 1 is provided with variable attenuators in the first signal path M1 and the second signal path M2 respectively.

[0136] In Modification 1, the low-noise amplifier 20 amplifies the output signal of the receiving filter 11R to a strength greater than a specified signal strength. A variable attenuator located in the first signal path M1 attenuates the signal (first signal) of the GPS communication band passing through the first signal path M1 to a specified signal strength. A variable attenuator 41 located in the second signal path M2 attenuates the signal (second signal) of the remaining communication band to a specified signal strength. Thus, the signals of each of the multiple communication bands that are co-banded are amplified to a signal strength suitable for signal processing (e.g., demodulation). As a result, stable signal processing can be performed on the signals of each of the multiple communication bands. Furthermore, the specified signal strength for the second signal is assumed to be the same as the specified signal strength for the first signal, but it can also be a different signal strength.

[0137] (Implementation Method 4)

[0138] Reference Figure 6 The high-frequency module 1 involved in Implementation 4 will be described.

[0139] (1) Structure

[0140] The high-frequency module 1 involved in Embodiment 4 and the high-frequency module 1 involved in Modification 1 of Embodiment 1 (refer to...) Figure 3 Compared to the previous embodiment, it is constructed in the same way except that it also has a coupler 50 and a variable element 60. In the following description, the structure that is the same as that of the modified example 1 of embodiment 1 will be omitted, and the description will focus on the structure that is different from the modified example 1 described above.

[0141] Coupler 50 splits the output signal of low-noise amplifier 20 to obtain a second signal other than the first signal. The first signal is the signal of the communication frequency band used by GPS. The second signal is the signal of the communication frequency band other than the communication frequency band used by GPS (n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) among the multiple communication frequency bands that are co-banded.

[0142] Coupler 50 has a main line 51 and a secondary line 52. The main line 51 is the signal path connecting the output 20b of the low-noise amplifier 20 to the external terminal 5i. The secondary line 52 is a signal path separate from but electromagnetically coupled to the main line 51. The secondary line 52 is connected to the variable element 60. Figure 6 In this example, the variable element 60 is disposed at one end of the secondary line 52. The other end of the secondary line 52 (the end opposite to the aforementioned end) is connected to the external terminal 5j. The output signal of the low-noise amplifier 20 flows through the main line 51 and is output from the external terminal 5i to the signal processing circuit 2. In addition, the coupler 50, through electromagnetic coupling acting between the main line 51 and the secondary line 52, splits out the second signal contained in the output signal of the low-noise amplifier 20 through the main line 51, and outputs the split second signal to the secondary line 52. For example, the coupler 50 outputs the split second signal in the secondary line 52 toward the other end of the secondary line 52 (the end connected to the external terminal 5j).

[0143] Variable element 60 is a variable element disposed on the secondary line 52 (e.g., at one end of the secondary line 52) and used to adjust the coupling amount of the electromagnetic coupling between the main line 51 and the secondary line 52. Variable element 60 can adjust the coupling amount through control by a predetermined controller or manual setting. Variable element 60 is, for example, at least one of a variable resistor R1 and a variable capacitor C1. Variable resistor R1 is connected between one end of the secondary line 52 and ground. Variable capacitor C1 is connected between one end of the secondary line 52 and ground. Furthermore, in Figure 6 The example illustrates the case where both a variable resistor R1 and a variable capacitor C1 are used. However, it is also possible to have only one of the variable resistor R1 and the variable capacitor C1. Furthermore, in... Figure 6In the example, the variable resistor R1 and the variable capacitor C1 are connected in parallel, but they can also be connected in series.

[0144] (2) Actions

[0145] In the following description, actions that are the same as those in Modification 1 of Embodiment 1 will be omitted, and the description will focus on actions that are different from those in Modification 1.

[0146] In switch 6, common terminal 6a is connected to selection terminal 6b. When antenna 3 receives a signal in this state, the received signal (received signal) flows sequentially through antenna 3, switch 6, the receiving filter 11R of the first duplexer 11, low-noise amplifier 20, and main line 51, and is output from external terminal 5i to signal processing circuit 2. At this time, the received signal is amplified by low-noise amplifier 20. Then, signal processing circuit 2 processes the received signal from external terminal 5i. More specifically, signal processing circuit 2 extracts a first signal from the received signal from external terminal 5i and demodulates the extracted first signal. In addition, coupler 50 divides the wavelength of the second signal contained in the received signal through main line 51 and outputs the divided second signal to sub-line 52. The second signal output to sub-line 52 is output from external terminal 5j to signal processing circuit 2. Signal processing circuit 2 processes (e.g., demodulates) the second signal from external terminal 5j.

[0147] (3) Effect

[0148] The high-frequency module 1 according to embodiment 4 includes a low-noise amplifier 20, a coupler 50, and a variable element 60. The low-noise amplifier 20 is connected to a receiving filter 11R. The coupler 50 has a main line 51 and a secondary line 52. The main line 51 is connected to the low-noise amplifier 20. The secondary line 52 is electromagnetically coupled to the main line 51. The variable element 60 is a variable element disposed on the secondary line 52 and used to adjust the coupling amount of the electromagnetic coupling between the main line 51 and the secondary line 52. The coupler 50 splits at least one communication frequency band from the output signal of the low-noise amplifier 20 through the main line 51 and outputs it to the secondary line 52.

[0149] According to this structure, the signals of each communication band (GPS(L1), n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) of multiple communication bands that are common-frequency bands can be amplified through a shared low-noise amplifier 20. This allows for miniaturization of the high-frequency module 1. Furthermore, the electromagnetic coupling between the main line 51 and the secondary line 52 can be adjusted using a variable element 60.

[0150] (4) Variations

[0151] Next, a variation of Embodiment 4 will be described. In the following description, descriptions of structures identical to those in Embodiment 4 will be omitted, and descriptions will focus on structures different from those in Embodiment 4.

[0152] (4-1) Variation Example 1

[0153] (4-1-1) Structure

[0154] like Figure 7 As shown, the high-frequency module 1 in Modified Example 1 is identical to the high-frequency module 1 in Embodiment 4, except that it also includes a variable attenuator 70. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used to refer to structures identical to those in Embodiment 4, and descriptions are omitted. The description will focus on structures different from those in Embodiment 4.

[0155] The variable attenuator 70 attenuates the output signal of the low-noise amplifier 20 via the main line 51 after the coupler 50. That is, the variable attenuator 70 attenuates the signal output from the external terminal 5i. More specifically, the variable attenuator 70 is disposed in the main line 51 after the coupler 50. The variable attenuator 70 has an input section 70a and an output section 70b. The input section 70a is connected to the output section 20b of the low-noise amplifier 20 via a portion of the main line 51. The output section 70b is connected to the external terminal 5i via the remainder of the main line 51. The variable attenuator 70 attenuates the signal input to the input section 70a (the output signal of the low-noise amplifier 20) and outputs the attenuated signal from the output section 70b. The variable attenuator 70 can adjust the amount of attenuation when attenuating the signal input to the input section 70a according to control from a specified controller or manual setting.

[0156] (4-1-2) Action

[0157] The operation is explained when receiving signals from each of the multiple communication frequency bands that are co-banded. In the following explanation, it is assumed that the received signal strength of the communication frequency band used by GPS (first signal) is weaker than the received signal strength of the remaining communication frequency bands (n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) (second signal).

[0158] In switch 6, common terminal 6a is connected to selection terminal 6b. When antenna 3 receives a signal in this state, the received signal (received signal) is sequentially output to main line 51 via antenna 3, switch 6, the receiving filter 11R of first duplexer 11, and low-noise amplifier 20. At this time, the received signal is amplified by low-noise amplifier 20. Through this amplification, the signal strengths of the first and second signals contained in the received signal are each greater than a predetermined signal strength (a signal strength suitable for signal processing (e.g., demodulation)). Then, the received signal output to main line 51 is attenuated by variable attenuator 70 and output from external terminal 5i. The received signal is attenuated in variable attenuator 70, thereby attenuating the signal strength of the first signal contained in the received signal to a predetermined signal strength. Then, signal processing circuit 2 extracts the first signal from the received signal by performing signal processing on the received signal from external terminal 5i and demodulates the extracted first signal. Since the first signal is amplified to a predetermined signal strength, the first signal is stably processed (e.g., demodulated).

[0159] Additionally, coupler 50 utilizes the electromagnetic coupling between main line 51 and secondary line 52 in main line 51 to demultiplex the second signal contained in the received signal between low-noise amplifier 20 and variable attenuator 70, and outputs the demultiplexed second signal to secondary line 52. The signal strength of the second signal demultiplexed by coupler 50 is attenuated to a predetermined signal strength through demultiplexing. Then, the second signal attenuated to the predetermined signal strength flows through secondary line 52 and is output from external terminal 5j to signal processing circuit 2. Signal processing circuit 2 performs signal processing (e.g., demodulation) on the second signal from external terminal 5i. Since the second signal is amplified to the predetermined signal strength, the second signal is stably processed (e.g., demodulated).

[0160] (4-1-3) Effect

[0161] The high-frequency module 1 involved in Modification Example 1 includes a variable attenuator 70. The variable attenuator 70 is provided in the main line 51 to attenuate the output signal of the low-noise amplifier 20 passing through the main line 51. According to this structure, the output signal of the receiving filter 11R can be amplified by the low-noise amplifier 20 to make the second signal (n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) taken from the sub-line 52 a signal strength suitable for signal processing. Furthermore, the output signal of the low-noise amplifier 20 can be attenuated by the variable attenuator 70 to make the first signal (the signal of the communication band used for GPS) taken from the main line 51 a signal strength suitable for signal processing. As a result, the signals of each of the multiple communication bands (GPS(L1), n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) that are co-banded can be amplified to a signal strength suitable for signal processing.

[0162] (4-2) Variation Example 2

[0163] In Variation 1 of Embodiment 4, a variable attenuator 70 is provided in the main line 51 and a variable element 60 is provided in the sub-line 52. In contrast, in Variation 2, a variable element 60 is provided in the main line 51 and a variable attenuator 70 is provided in the sub-line 52. In this case, the low-noise amplifier 20 amplifies the output signal (received signal) of the receiving filter 11R so that the signal strength of the first signal contained in the output signal of the receiving filter 11R becomes a predetermined signal strength. Then, the signal processing circuit 2 extracts the first signal from the received signal output from the external terminal 5i and demodulates the first signal. At this time, the first signal is amplified to a predetermined signal strength and is therefore stably demodulated. Furthermore, the variable attenuator 70 provided in the sub-line 52 attenuates the second signal split by the coupler 50 to the sub-line 52 to a predetermined signal strength. The signal processing circuit 2 demodulates the second signal output from the external terminal 5j. At this time, the second signal is attenuated to a predetermined signal strength by the variable attenuator 70 and is therefore stably demodulated. Furthermore, the signal strength specified above for the second signal is assumed to be the same as the signal strength specified above for the first signal, but it may also be a signal strength different from the signal strength specified above.

[0164] In Modification 2, similarly to Modification 1, the signals of each communication band of the multiple communication bands (GPS(L1), n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) that have been co-banded can be amplified to signal strengths suitable for signal processing.

[0165] (Implementation Method 5)

[0166] (1) Structure

[0167] Reference Figure 8 The high-frequency module 1 involved in Implementation 5 will be described.

[0168] The high-frequency module 1 involved in Embodiment 5 includes external terminals 81a~81f, a first switch 82, a second switch 83, a first filter 84, a second filter 86, a third filter 89, a fourth filter 87, a fifth filter 88, a first low-noise amplifier 90, a second low-noise amplifier 91, and a third low-noise amplifier 92.

[0169] External terminal 81a is the antenna terminal to which antenna 3 is connected. External terminals 81b, 81c, and 81d are connected to different input sections (not shown) of the signal processing circuit, and are output terminals for outputting the received signal processed by the high-frequency module 1 to the input section of the signal processing circuit. External terminals 81e and 81f are connected to different output sections (not shown) of the signal processing circuit, and are input terminals for receiving output signals (transmit signals) from the output section of the signal processing circuit.

[0170] The first switch 82 is an antenna switch. The first switch 82 is, for example, a switch IC (Integrated Circuit). The first switch 82 has a common terminal 82a (first common terminal) and multiple (in...) Figure 8 In this example, there are two selection terminals 82b and 82c (first selection terminal and second selection terminal). The common terminal 82a can be selectively connected to at least one of the multiple selection terminals 82b and 82c. The common terminal 82a is connected to the external terminal 81a. The selection terminal 82b is connected to the output section 84b of the first filter 84 (described later). The selection terminal 82c is connected to the input section 86a of the second filter 86 (described later), the output section 87b of the fourth filter 87 (described later), and the input section 88a of the fifth filter 88 (described later).

[0171] The second switch 83 is used to switch the connection destination of the output section 90b of the first low-noise amplifier 90 (described later) to either the first signal path M1 or the second signal path M2. The first signal path M1 is the path through which received signals from the communication band of a terrestrial network (TN) (e.g., n255R) flow. The second signal path M2 is the path through which received signals from the communication band of a non-terrestrial network (NTN) (e.g., Band75, Band76, Band32, GNSS (L1), etc.) flow. The second switch 83 is, for example, a switch IC (Integrated Circuit). The second switch 83 has a common terminal 83a (second common terminal) and multiple (in...) Figure 8 In this example, there are two selection terminals 83b and 83c (the third selection terminal and the fourth selection terminal). The common terminal 83a is connected to the output 86b of the second filter 86 via the first low-noise amplifier 90. Therefore, the common terminal 83a is connected to the output 90b of the first low-noise amplifier 90, described later. The selection terminal 83b is connected to the external terminal 81c via the first signal path M1. The second low-noise amplifier 91 and the third filter 89 are connected to the first signal path M1. Therefore, the selection terminal 83b is connected to the input 91a of the second low-noise amplifier 91, described later. The selection terminal 83c is connected to the external terminal 81b via the second signal path M2.

[0172] The first filter 84 is a transmit filter having a first passband that includes the transmit band of a first communication frequency band. The first communication frequency band is a non-terrestrial network communication band, for example, n255. Therefore, the first passband of the first filter 84 includes the transmit band of n255 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as n255T). The transmit band of n255 is 1626.5MHz~1660.5MHz.

[0173] The first filter 84 has an input section 84a and an output section 84b. The input section 84a is connected to the output section 93b of the first power amplifier 93 (described later). The output section 84b is connected to the selection terminal 82b of the first switch 82. The first filter 84 receives a signal (transmit signal) from the input section 84a, restricts the input signal to the transmit frequency band of the first communication frequency band, and outputs the transmitted signal from the output section 84b.

[0174] The second filter 86, the fourth filter 87, and the fifth filter 88 constitute a triplet 85. The input section 86a of the second filter 86 (described later), the output section 87b of the fourth filter 87 (described later), and the input section 88a of the fifth filter 88 (described later) are composed of a common input and output section.

[0175] The second filter 86 is a receiving filter having a second passband that includes a receiving band of the first communication band (n255), a receiving band of the second communication band, and a communication band of the third communication band. Hereinafter, the receiving band of the first communication band (n255) is sometimes referred to as "n255R". The second communication band is a communication band of a terrestrial network, such as at least one of Band 75, Band 76, and Band 32. Hereinafter, at least one of Band 75, Band 76, and Band 32 is sometimes referred to as "Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32". The third communication band is, for example, a designated frequency band of GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) (e.g., L1 band). GNSS is a general term for systems used to measure the current position of the ground using artificial satellites, including the communication band of GPS (Global Positioning System). Therefore, the second passband of the second filter 86 includes the receiving band of n255 (255R), the receiving bands of Band75 / Band768 / Band32, and the communication band of GNSS (L1). The receiving band of n255 is 1525MHz~1559MHz. Band75 is 1432MHz~1517MHz. Band76 is 1427MHz~1432MHz. Band32 is 1452MHz~1496MHz. The communication band of GNSS (L1) is 1597.5515MHz~1605.886MHz in the case of GLONASS (L1), and 1559.052MHz~1563.144MHz in the case of COMPASS (L1). The communication band of GPS (L1) is 1574.397MHz~1576.442MHz.

[0176] The second filter 86 has an input section 86a and an output section 86b. The input section 86a is connected to the selection terminal 82c of the first switch 82. The output section 86b is connected to the input section 90a of the first low-noise amplifier 90, described later. The second filter 86 receives a signal (received signal) from the input section 86a, limits the input signal to the second passband of the second filter 86, and outputs the passed signal from the output section 86b.

[0177] The fourth filter 87 is a transmitting filter having a fourth passband that includes a transmitting band of a fourth communication band and a transmitting band of a fifth communication band. The fourth communication band is a non-terrestrial network communication band, for example, n256. The fifth communication band is a non-terrestrial network communication band, for example, Band1. Therefore, the fourth passband of the fourth filter 87 includes the transmitting band of n256 and the transmitting band of Band1. Hereinafter, the transmitting band of n256 will sometimes be referred to as "n256T", and the transmitting band of Band1 will be referred to as "B1T". The transmitting band of n256 is 1980MHz~2010MHz. The transmitting band of Band1 is 1920MHz~1980MHz.

[0178] The fourth filter 87 has an input section 87a and an output section 87b. The input section 87a is connected to the output section 94b of the second power amplifier 94. The output section 87b is connected to the selection terminal 82c of the first switch 82. The fourth filter 87 receives a signal (transmit signal) from the input section 87a, restricts the input signal to the fourth passband of the fourth filter 87 to allow it to pass, and outputs the passed signal from the output section 87b.

[0179] The fifth filter 88 is a receiving filter having a fifth passband that includes the receiving band of the fourth communication band (n256) and the receiving band of the fifth communication band (Band 1). Hereinafter, the receiving band of n256 will sometimes be referred to as "n256R", and the receiving band of Band 1 as "B1R". Therefore, the fifth passband of the fifth filter 88 includes the receiving band of n256 (n256R) and the receiving band of Band 1 (B1R). The receiving band of n256 is 2170MHz to 2200MHz. The receiving band of Band 1 is 2110MHz to 2140MHz.

[0180] The fifth filter 88 has an input section 88a and an output section 88b. The input section 88a is connected to the selection terminal 82c of the first switch 82. The output section 88b is connected to the input section 92a of the third low-noise amplifier 92. The fifth filter 88 receives a signal (received signal) from the input section 88a, limits the input signal to the fifth passband of the fifth filter 88, and outputs the passed signal from the output section 88b.

[0181] The third filter 89 is a filter having a third passband that includes the third communication band (GNSS(L1)) and does not include communication bands other than the third communication band (e.g., the first, second, fourth, and fifth communication bands). For example, it is a bandpass filter. The third filter 89 is used to remove unwanted signals (e.g., signals from the first, second, fourth, and fifth communication bands) that cannot be adequately removed by the second filter 86 during GNSS(L1) communication (e.g., during reception). The third filter 89 has an input section 89a and an output section 89b. The third filter 89 receives a signal (received signal) from the input section 89a, restricts the input signal to the third passband of the third filter 89, and outputs the passed signal from the output section 89b.

[0182] A first low-noise amplifier 90 is disposed between the output section 86b of the second filter 86 and the common terminal 83a of the second switch 83. The first low-noise amplifier 90 is a low-noise amplifier capable of amplifying signals across a wide communication band, including the receiving band of n255, the receiving band of Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32, and the communication band of GNSS (L1). The first low-noise amplifier 90 has an input section 90a and an output section 90b. The input section 90a is connected to the output section 86b of the second filter 86. The output section 90b is connected to the common terminal 83a of the second switch 83. The first low-noise amplifier 90 amplifies the signal (received signal) input to the input section 90a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 90b.

[0183] The second low-noise amplifier 91 is disposed between the selection terminal 83b of the second switch 83 and the input section 89a of the third filter 89. The second low-noise amplifier 91 is a low-noise amplifier supporting the GNSS (L1) communication band (i.e., a low-noise amplifier for GNSS). The second low-noise amplifier 91 is used to amplify the insufficient amplification of the GNSS (L1) received signal by the first low-noise amplifier 90. The second low-noise amplifier 91 has an input section 91a and an output section 91b. The input section 91a is connected to the selection terminal 83b of the second switch 83. The output section 91b is connected to the input section 89a of the third filter 89. The second low-noise amplifier 91 amplifies the signal (received signal) input to the input section 91a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 91b.

[0184] A third low-noise amplifier 92 is disposed between the output section 88b of the fifth filter 88 and the external terminal 81d. The third low-noise amplifier 92 is a low-noise amplifier supporting both the receiving band (n255R) of n255 and the receiving band (B1R) of Band 1. The third low-noise amplifier 92 has an input section 92a and an output section 92b. The input section 92a is connected to the output section 88b of the fifth filter 88. The output section 92b is connected to the external terminal 81d. The third low-noise amplifier 92 amplifies the signal (received signal) input to the input section 92a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 92b.

[0185] A first power amplifier 93 is disposed between an external terminal 81f and an input section 84a of a first filter 84. The first power amplifier 93 is a power amplifier supporting the transmission band (n255T) of a first communication frequency band. The first power amplifier 93 has an input section 93a and an output section 93b. The input section 93a is connected to the external terminal 81f. The output section 93b is connected to the input section 84a of the first filter 84. The first power amplifier 93 amplifies the signal (transmission signal) input to the input section 93a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 93b.

[0186] A second power amplifier 94 is disposed between the external terminal 81e and the input section 87a of the fourth filter 87. The second power amplifier 94 supports the transmission band (n256T) of the fourth communication band and the transmission band (B1T) of the fifth communication band. The second power amplifier 94 has an input section 94a and an output section 94b. The input section 94a is connected to the external terminal 81e. The output section 94b is connected to the input section 87a of the fourth filter 87. The second power amplifier 94 amplifies the signal (transmission signal) input to the input section 94a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 94b.

[0187] (2) Regarding the passband of the three-way instrument 85

[0188] The receiving band of n255 (n255R) is close to the receiving bands of Band75, Band76, and Band32. Therefore, in the second filter 86, n255R is included in the extended receiving band by expanding the receiving bands of Band75, Band76, and Band32, thereby integrating n255R with the receiving bands of Band75, Band76, and Band32 into a single receiving band.

[0189] Furthermore, the GNSS (L1) communication band is close to one of the aforementioned receiving bands. Therefore, in the second filter 86, the GNSS (L1) receiving band is included in the extended receiving band by extending the aforementioned receiving band, thereby integrating the GNSS (L1) receiving band and the aforementioned receiving band into a single receiving band. That is, in the second filter 86, the receiving bands of n255R, Band 75, Band 76, and Band 32 are integrated with the GNSS (L1) communication band into a single receiving band.

[0190] Furthermore, the transmit band of n256 (n256T) is close to the transmit band of Band1 (B1T). Therefore, in the fourth filter 87, n256T is included in the extended transmit band by extending the transmit band of Band1 (B1T), thereby integrating n256T and B1T into a single transmit band.

[0191] Furthermore, the receiving band of n256 (n256R) is close to the receiving band of Band1 (B1R). Therefore, in the fifth filter 88, n256R is included in the extended receiving band by extending the receiving band of Band1 (B1R), thereby integrating n256R and B1R into a single receiving band.

[0192] The receiving band of the second filter 86, the transmitting band of the fourth filter 87, and the receiving band of the fifth filter 88 are close to each other. Therefore, a tripod 85 is formed by integrating the receiving band of the second filter 86, the transmitting band of the fourth filter 87, and the receiving band of the fifth filter 88 into a single passband.

[0193] The transmit band (n255T) of n255 is not close to the transmit bands of other communication bands (the transmit bands of Band 75, Band 76, and each band of Band 32, B1T, B1R). Therefore, it is difficult to integrate the first filter 84, which has a first passband including n255T, with the passband of the tripod 85 to form a single filter. Therefore, the first filter 84 is configured as a separate filter from the tripod 85.

[0194] (3) Actions

[0195] Reference Figure 8 An example of the operation of the high-frequency module 1 according to embodiment 5 will be described.

[0196] (3-1) Operation when sending the n255T transmit signal

[0197] In the first switch 82, the common terminal 82a is connected to the selection terminal 82b. In this state, a transmission signal is input from a signal processing circuit (not shown) to the external terminal 81f. Then, the transmission signal input to the external terminal 81f is transmitted from the antenna 3 through the first power amplifier 93, the first filter 84, and the first switch 82.

[0198] (3-2) Operation when transmitting the n256T or B1T transmission signal

[0199] In the first switch 82, the common terminal 82a is connected to the selection terminal 82c. In this state, a transmission signal is input from the signal processing circuit (not shown) to the external terminal 81e. Then, the transmission signal input to the external terminal 81f is transmitted from the antenna 3 through the second power amplifier 94, the fourth filter 87, and the first switch 82.

[0200] (3-3) Operation when receiving signals from n256R or B1R

[0201] In the first switch 82, the common terminal 82a is connected to the selection terminal 82c. When the antenna 3 receives the received signal of n256R or the received signal of B1R in this state, the received signal is output from the external terminal 81d to the signal processing circuit (not shown) through the antenna 3, the first switch 82, the fifth filter 88, and the third low-noise amplifier 92.

[0202] (3-4) Operation when receiving GNSS (L1) signals

[0203] In the first switch 82, the common terminal 82a is connected to the selection terminal 82c, and in the second switch 83, the common terminal 83a is connected to the selection terminal 83b. When the antenna 3 receives a GNSS (L1) signal in this state, the received signal passes through the antenna 3, the first switch 82, the second filter 86, the first low-noise amplifier 90, the second switch 83, the second low-noise amplifier 91, and the third filter 89, and is output from the external terminal 81c to a signal processing circuit (not shown). At this time, the received signal passes through the second filter 86, which has a relatively wide second passband, and then through the third filter 89 for GNSS. Thus, unwanted signals (signals in frequency bands other than GNSS (L)) that were not sufficiently removed by the second filter 86 are sufficiently removed by the third filter 89. Furthermore, after being amplified by the first low-noise amplifier 90, which supports a relatively wide communication frequency band, the received signal is further amplified by the second low-noise amplifier 91 for GNSS (L1). Thus, the amplification of the received signal by the second low-noise amplifier 91 compensates for any deficiencies in the amplification of the received signal by the first low-noise amplifier 90.

[0204] (3-5) Operation when receiving signals from n255R or Band75 / Band76 / Band32

[0205] In the first switch 82, the common terminal 82a is connected to the selection terminal 82c, and in the second switch 83, the common terminal 83a is connected to the selection terminal 83c. When the antenna 3 receives the received signal from n255R or the received signal from Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32 in this state, the received signal is output from the external terminal 81b to the signal processing circuit (not shown) through the antenna 3, the first switch 82, the second filter 86, the first low-noise amplifier 90, and the second switch 83.

[0206] (3-6) Simultaneous communication

[0207] The above example illustrates a case where transmission or reception is performed individually in any one of the first to fifth communication frequency bands. However, it is also possible to use two or more of the first to fifth communication frequency bands to perform communication simultaneously.

[0208] For example, GNSS (L1) reception and n255T transmission can be performed simultaneously. In this case, the GNSS received signal from antenna 3 is output from external terminal 81c through first switch 82, second filter 86, first low-noise amplifier 90, second switch 83, second low-noise amplifier 91, and third filter 89. At this time, the n255T transmission signal enters the second filter 86 from the first filter 84 via the first switch 82, and then enters the first signal path M1, which is the GNSS signal path, through the first low-noise amplifier 90 and the second switch 83. In this case, the transmission signal entering the first signal path M1 is removed by the third filter 89. Therefore, the GNSS received signal is not mixed with the aforementioned transmission signal and is output from external terminal 81c.

[0209] Alternatively, GNSS (L1) reception and n256T or B1T transmission can be performed simultaneously. In this case, the GNSS received signal from antenna 3 is also output from external terminal 81c through first switch 82, second filter 86, first low-noise amplifier 90, second switch 83, second low-noise amplifier 91, and third filter 89. At this time, the n256T or B1T transmission signal enters the second filter 86 from fourth filter 87 through tripeller 85, and then enters the first signal path M1, which is the GNSS signal path, through first low-noise amplifier 90 and second switch 83. In this case, the transmission signal entering the first signal path M1 is also removed by third filter 89. Therefore, the GNSS received signal is not mixed with the aforementioned transmission signal and is output from external terminal 81c.

[0210] (4) Regarding the location of the third filter

[0211] like Figure 8 As shown, the third filter 89 is connected between the second low-noise amplifier 91 and the external terminal 81c. That is, the third filter 89 is positioned after the first low-noise amplifier 90 and the second low-noise amplifier 91. Therefore, the third filter 89 attenuates the received signal after it has been amplified by the first low-noise amplifier 90 and the second low-noise amplifier 91 (i.e., after being amplified by all the low-noise amplifiers), thus effectively attenuating the received signal. In other words, the third filter 89 can effectively remove unwanted signals contained in the received signal.

[0212] (5) Effect

[0213] The high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 5 includes an external terminal 81a (antenna terminal), a first switch 82, a first filter 84, and a second filter 86. The first switch 82 has a common terminal 82a (first common terminal), a selection terminal 82b (first selection terminal), and a selection terminal 82c (second selection terminal). The common terminal 82a is connected to the external terminal 81a. The selection terminals 82b and 82c can be connected to the common terminal 82a. The first filter 84 is connected to the selection terminal 82b. The second filter 86 is connected to the selection terminal 82c. The first passband of the first filter 84 includes the transmission band of a first communication frequency band (n255), which is a non-terrestrial network communication band. The second passband of the second filter 86 includes the reception band of the first communication frequency band and the reception band of a second communication frequency band (Band75 / Band76 / Band32). The second communication frequency band is a terrestrial network communication band.

[0214] According to this structure, the second filter 86 can also be used as a receiving filter for the first communication band and a receiving filter for the second communication band, thus enabling the high-frequency module 1 to be reduced in cost and miniaturized.

[0215] Furthermore, in the high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 5, the second passband of the second filter 86 includes the communication band of the third communication band, which is the communication band of GPS. According to this structure, the second filter 86 also functions as a receiving filter for the third communication band, thus enabling the high-frequency module to be lower in cost and smaller in size.

[0216] Furthermore, the high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 5 includes an external terminal 81c (first output terminal), an external terminal 81b (second output terminal), a second switch 83, a first low-noise amplifier 90, a second low-noise amplifier 91, and a third filter 89. The second switch 83 has a common terminal 83a (second common terminal), a selection terminal 83b (third selection terminal), and a selection terminal 83c (fourth selection terminal). The common terminal 83a is connected to the second filter 86. The selection terminal 83b is connected to the external terminal 81c. The selection terminal 83c is connected to the external terminal 81b. The first low-noise amplifier 90 is connected between the second filter 86 and the common terminal 83a of the second switch 83. The second low-noise amplifier 91 is connected between the selection terminal 83b and the external terminal 81c. The third filter 89 is connected between the second low-noise amplifier 91 and the external terminal 81c. The third passband of the third filter 89 includes the communication band of the third communication band (GNSS(L1)) and does not include the communication band (n255R, n255T) of the first communication band (n255).

[0217] According to this structure, the third filter 89 can remove unwanted signals (e.g., the transmit signal of n255T) that enter the first signal path M1 used in the third communication band when communicating (e.g., receiving) using the third communication band. Since the third filter 89 is disposed after the first low-noise amplifier 90 and the second low-noise amplifier 91, the third filter 89 can remove the signals (unwanted signals) amplified by the first low-noise amplifier 90 and the second low-noise amplifier 91. Thus, the third filter 89 can effectively remove the aforementioned unwanted signal waves.

[0218] Furthermore, in the high-frequency module 1 according to embodiment 5, the first communication frequency band is n255, and the second communication frequency band is one or more of Band75, Band76, and Band32. According to this structure, when the first communication frequency band is n255 and the second communication frequency band is one or more of Band75, Band76, and Band32, the aforementioned effects can be achieved.

[0219] Furthermore, the high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 5 includes a fourth filter 87 and a fifth filter 88. The fourth filter 87 is connected to a selection terminal 82c (second selection terminal). The fifth filter 88 is also connected to the selection terminal 82c (second selection terminal). The fourth passband of the fourth filter 87 includes the transmission band (n256T) of a fourth communication frequency band (n2567), which is a non-terrestrial network communication band. The fifth passband of the fifth filter 88 includes the reception band (n256R) of the fourth communication frequency band.

[0220] According to this structure, the second filter 86, the fourth filter 87, and the fifth filter 88 are connected to the selection terminal 82c of the first switch 82, thus enabling the second filter 86, the fourth filter 87, and the fifth filter 88 to be integrated into a tripod 85. This allows for lower cost and smaller size of the high-frequency module 1.

[0221] Furthermore, in the high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 5, the fourth passband of the fourth filter 87 includes the transmit band (B1T) of the fifth communication band (Band 1), which is the communication band of the terrestrial network. The fifth passband of the fifth filter 88 includes the receive band (B1R) of the fifth communication band.

[0222] According to this structure, the fourth filter 87 serves as both a transmit filter for the fourth communication band and a transmit filter for the fifth communication band, thus enabling the high-frequency module 1 to be reduced in cost and miniaturized. Furthermore, the fifth filter 88 serves as both a receive filter for the fourth communication band and a receive filter for the fifth communication band, thus enabling the high-frequency module 1 to be further reduced in cost and miniaturized.

[0223] (6) Variations

[0224] A variation of Embodiment 5 will be described. In the following description, descriptions of structures identical to those in Embodiment 5 will be omitted, and the description will sometimes focus on structures different from those in Embodiment 5.

[0225] (6-1) Variation Example 1

[0226] In embodiment 5, an example is shown where the third filter 89 is connected between the second low-noise amplifier 91 and the external terminal 81c (see reference). Figure 8 In contrast, in variation 1, as... Figure 9As shown, the third filter 89 is connected between the output 86b of the second filter 86 and the input 90a of the first low-noise amplifier 90. According to Modification 1, the third filter 89 can remove unwanted signals (e.g., the transmit signal of n255T) that enter the first signal path M1 used in the third communication band (GPS) during communication (e.g., reception). Since the third filter 89 is disposed between the second filter 86 and the first low-noise amplifier 90, the input of unwanted signals to the first low-noise amplifier 90 and the second low-noise amplifier 91 can be reduced. As a result, the degradation of the characteristics of the first low-noise amplifier 90 and the second low-noise amplifier 91 caused by unwanted signals can be reduced.

[0227] (6-2) Variation Example 2

[0228] In embodiment 5, an example is shown where the third filter 89 is connected between the second low-noise amplifier 91 and the external terminal 81c (see reference). Figure 8 In contrast, in variation 2, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the third filter 89 is connected between the input section 91a of the second low-noise amplifier 91 and the selection terminal 83b of the second switch 83. According to Modification 2, the third filter 89 is disposed in the pre-stage of the second low-noise amplifier 91. Therefore, the third filter 89 can reduce the input of unwanted signals to the second low-noise amplifier 91, and can reduce the degradation of the characteristics of the second low-noise amplifier 91 caused by such unwanted signals. Furthermore, the third filter 89 is disposed in the post-stage of the first low-noise amplifier 90. Therefore, the third filter 89 attenuates the received signal amplified by the first low-noise amplifier 90, thus effectively attenuating the received signal. That is, unwanted signals can be effectively removed.

[0229] (6-3) Variation Example 3

[0230] In Embodiment 5, the second filter 86, the fourth filter 87, and the fifth filter 88 are exemplified as a tripod 85. However, it is also possible that the fourth filter 87 and the fifth filter 88 constitute a duplexer, and the second filter 86 constitutes a separate receiving filter. In Modification 3, since the second filter 86 is separated from the duplexer, compared to the case where the second filter 86 and the duplexer are integrated into one as a tripod 85, the insertion loss of the filter caused by filter degradation due to integration can be reduced.

[0231] (Implementation Method 6)

[0232] (1) Structure

[0233] Reference Figure 11The high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 6 will be described below. In the following description, the structure that is the same as that in Embodiment 5 will be omitted, and the description will sometimes focus on the structure that is different from that in Embodiment 5.

[0234] like Figure 11 As shown, the high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 6 is constructed in the same manner as the high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 1, except for the following differences: the third filter 89 (refer to...) is used in the high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 6. Figure 8 Replace it with a band-stop filter 104.

[0235] The band-stop filter 104 is a filter capable of attenuating only a specific frequency band. The band-stop filter 104 has a removed frequency band that includes only the specific frequency band. This specific frequency band includes the transmission band (n256T) of the fourth communication band (n256) and the transmission band (B1T) of Band 1. The band-stop filter 104 is connected between the external terminal 81c and the output section 91b of the second low-noise amplifier 91. More specifically, the band-stop filter 104 has an input section 104a and an output section 104b. The input section 104a is connected to the output section 91b of the second low-noise amplifier 91. The output section 104b is connected to the external terminal 81c. The band-stop filter 104 attenuates the signal of a specific frequency band in the signal (received signal) input to the input section 104a, and outputs a signal of a frequency band other than the specific frequency band from the output section 104b.

[0236] (2) Actions

[0237] Reference Figure 11 This section describes the operation when simultaneously receiving GNSS (L1) reception signals and transmitting n256T or B1T transmission signals, as an example.

[0238] In the first switch 82, the common terminal 82a is connected to the selection terminal 82c, and in the second switch 83, the common terminal 83a is connected to the selection terminal 83b. When the antenna 3 receives a GNSS (L1) signal in this state, the received signal passes through the antenna 3, the first switch 82, the second filter 86, the first low-noise amplifier 90, the second switch 83, the second low-noise amplifier 91, and the band-stop filter 104, and is output from the external terminal 81b to a signal processing circuit (not shown). When a transmit signal is input from the aforementioned signal processing circuit to the external terminal 81e in parallel with the reception, the transmit signal passes through the fourth filter 87 and the first switch 82 and is transmitted from the antenna 3. At this time, a portion of the transmit signal passing through the fourth filter 87 enters the second filter 86 through the tripeller 85, thereby sometimes mixing the transmitted signal into the received signal. In this case, when the received signal mixed with the transmitted signal passes through the band-stop filter 104, the band-stop filter 104 removes the transmitted signal from the received signal. In this way, even if the GNSS (L1) receiving signal is received and the n255T or B1T transmitting signal is transmitted simultaneously, the possibility of the n255T or B1T transmitting signal being mixed into the received GNSS (L1) receiving signal as a useless signal can be reduced.

[0239] (3) Effect

[0240] The high-frequency module 1 according to embodiment 6 has a band-stop filter 104 between the external terminal 81c and the second low-noise amplifier 91. The band-stop filter 104 removes frequency bands including the transmission band (n256T) of the fourth communication band (n256) and the transmission band (B1T) of Band 1. Therefore, even when receiving using the third communication band (GNSS) and transmitting using the fourth communication band (n256) or the fifth communication band (Band 1) are performed simultaneously, the possibility of the transmission signal of the fourth communication band or the fifth communication band mixing with the received signal of the third communication band can be reduced.

[0241] (4) Variations

[0242] A variation of Embodiment 6 will be described. In the following description, descriptions of structures identical to those in Embodiment 6 will be omitted, and the description will sometimes focus on structures different from those in Embodiment 6.

[0243] (4-1) Variation Example 1

[0244] In embodiment 6, the case where the band-stop filter 104 is connected between the second low-noise amplifier 91 and the external terminal 81c is illustrated. However, the band-stop filter 104 can also be connected as follows: Figure 9The third filter 89 is connected between the output 86b of the second filter 86 and the common terminal 83a of the second switch 83, as shown. In this case, the band-stop filter 104 is positioned before the first low-noise amplifier 90 and the second low-noise amplifier 91. Therefore, the band-stop filter 104 removes unwanted signals from the received signal, thereby reducing the possibility of unwanted signals being input to the first low-noise amplifier 90 and the second low-noise amplifier 91. As a result, the degradation of the characteristics of the first low-noise amplifier 90 and the second low-noise amplifier 91 caused by the aforementioned unwanted signals can be reduced.

[0245] (4-2) Variation Example 2

[0246] In embodiment 6, the case where the band-stop filter 104 is connected between the second low-noise amplifier 91 and the external terminal 81c is illustrated. However, the band-stop filter 104 can also be connected as follows: Figure 10 The third filter 89 shown is connected between the input section 91a of the second low-noise amplifier 91 and the selection terminal 83b of the second switch 83. In this case, the band-stop filter 104 is disposed in the pre-stage of the second low-noise amplifier 91. Therefore, the band-stop filter 104 can reduce the input of unwanted signals to the second low-noise amplifier 91, and can reduce the degradation of the characteristics of the second low-noise amplifier 91 caused by the aforementioned unwanted signals. In addition, the band-stop filter 104 is disposed in the post-stage of the first low-noise amplifier 90. Therefore, the band-stop filter 104 attenuates the received signal amplified by the first low-noise amplifier 90, and can therefore effectively attenuate the received signal. That is, unwanted signals can be effectively removed.

[0247] (Implementation Method 7)

[0248] (1) Structure

[0249] Reference Figure 12 The high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 7 will be described below. In the following description, the structure that is the same as that in Embodiment 5 will be omitted, and the description will sometimes focus on the structure that is different from that in Embodiment 5.

[0250] like Figure 12 As shown, the high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 7 is constructed in the same manner as the high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 5, except for the following differences, which are that it also includes a sixth filter 96, a seventh filter 97, a fourth low-noise amplifier 99, a third power amplifier 100, and external terminals 81g and 81h. Hereinafter, Embodiment 7 will be described in detail.

[0251] External terminal 81g is connected to the input section of a signal processing circuit (not shown) and is an output terminal for outputting the received signal processed by the high-frequency module 1 to the input section of the signal processing circuit. External terminal 81h is connected to the output section of the signal processing circuit and is an input terminal for receiving the output signal (transmit signal) from the output section of the signal processing circuit.

[0252] The first switch 82 in Embodiment 7 is constructed in the same manner as the first switch 82 in Embodiment 5, except that it also includes selection terminals 82d and 82e. In the first switch 82 of Embodiment 7, the common terminal 82a can be selectively connected to at least one of the multiple selection terminals 82b to 82e. The connection destinations of the common terminal 82a and the selection terminal 82b are the same as in Embodiment 5. The selection terminal 82c is connected to the input section 86a of the second filter 86 (described later). The selection terminal 82d is connected to the output section 87b of the fourth filter 87 (described later) and the input section 88a of the fifth filter 88 (described later). The selection terminal 82e is connected to the output section 96b of the sixth filter 96 (described later) and the input section 97a of the seventh filter 97 (described later).

[0253] The sixth filter 96 and the seventh filter 97 constitute a duplexer 98. The output section 96b of the sixth filter 96 (described later) and the input section 97a of the seventh filter 97 (described later) are composed of a common input / output section and are connected to the selection terminal 82e of the first switch 82.

[0254] The sixth filter 96 is a transmit filter having a sixth passband that includes the transmit band of the sixth communication band. The sixth communication band is the communication band of the terrestrial network, such as Band 3. That is, the sixth passband of the sixth filter 96 includes the transmit band of Band 3 (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as B3T). The sixth filter 96 has an input section 96a and an output section 96b. The input section 96a is connected to the output section 100b of the third power amplifier 100, which will be described later. The output section 96b is connected to the selection terminal 82e of the first switch 82. The sixth filter 96 receives a signal (transmit signal) from the input section 86a, restricts the input signal to the transmit band of the sixth communication band, and outputs the passed signal from the output section 86b.

[0255] The seventh filter 97 is a receiving filter having a seventh passband that includes the receiving band of the sixth communication band (Band 3) (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as B3R). The seventh filter 97 has an input section 97a and an output section 97b. The input section 97a is connected to the selection terminal 82e of the first switch 82. The output section 97b is connected to the input section 99a of the fourth low-noise amplifier 99, which will be described later. The seventh filter 97 receives a signal (received signal) from the input section 87a, restricts the input signal to the receiving band of the sixth communication band, and outputs the passed signal from the output section 97b.

[0256] A fourth low-noise amplifier 99 is disposed between the output section 97b of the seventh filter 97 and the external terminal 81g. The fourth low-noise amplifier 99 is a low-noise amplifier supporting the receiving band (B3R) of the sixth communication band (Band 3). The fourth low-noise amplifier 99 has an input section 99a and an output section 99b. The input section 99a is connected to the output section 97b of the seventh filter 97. The output section 99b is connected to the external terminal 81g. The fourth low-noise amplifier 99 amplifies the signal (received signal) input to the input section 99a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 99b.

[0257] A third power amplifier 100 is disposed between the external terminal 81h and the input section 96a of the sixth filter 96. The third power amplifier 100 is a power amplifier supporting the transmission band (B3T) of the sixth communication band (Band 3). The third power amplifier 100 has an input section 100a and an output section 100b. The input section 100a is connected to the external terminal 81h. The output section 100b is connected to the input section 96a of the sixth filter 96. The third power amplifier 100 amplifies the signal (transmission signal) input to the input section 100a and outputs the amplified signal from the output section 100b.

[0258] The fourth filter 87 and the fifth filter 88 in Embodiment 7 are constructed identically to those in Embodiment 5, except that they are configured as a duplexer 95. The output section 87b of the fourth filter 87 and the input section 88a of the fifth filter 88 in Embodiment 7 are configured with a common input / output section and are connected to the selection terminal 82d of the first switch 81.

[0259] The second filter 86 in Embodiment 7 is identical to the second filter 86 in Embodiment 5, except that it is configured as a separate filter. The input section 86a of the second filter 86 in Embodiment 7 is connected to the selection terminal 82c of the first switch 81.

[0260] (2) Effect

[0261] The high-frequency module 1 in embodiment 7 is equipped with a sixth filter 96 and a seventh filter 97, and therefore can transmit and receive using the sixth communication frequency band (Band 3).

[0262] Furthermore, in embodiment 7, since the second filter 86 is separate from the duplexer 95, the insertion loss of the filter caused by the degradation of the filter due to integration into one can be reduced compared to the case where the second filter 86 and the duplexer 95 are integrated into one as a triplexer.

[0263] (Implementation Method 8)

[0264] (1) Structure

[0265] Reference Figure 13 The high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 8 will be described below. In the following description, the structure that is the same as that in Embodiment 7 will be omitted, and the description will sometimes focus on the structure that is different from that in Embodiment 7.

[0266] like Figure 13 As shown, the high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 8 is configured the same as the high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 7, except for the following differences, which are mainly the replacement of the configuration of the fifth filter 88 and the sixth filter 96. Embodiment 8 will now be described in detail.

[0267] In embodiment 8, the fourth filter 87 (transmit filter) and the sixth filter 96 (transmit filter) are integrated to form a duplexer 101. That is, the two transmit filters (fourth filter 87 and sixth filter 96) are integrated into one filter (duplexer 101). The output section 87b of the fourth filter 87 and the output section 96b of the sixth filter 96 are composed of a common output section and are connected to the selection terminal 82d of the first switch 82.

[0268] In embodiment 8, the fifth filter 88 (receiving filter) and the seventh filter 97 (receiving filter) are integrated to form a duplexer 102. That is, the two receiving filters (the fifth filter 88 and the seventh filter 97) are integrated into one filter (duplexer 102). The input section 88a of the fifth filter 88 and the input section 97a of the seventh filter 97 are composed of a common output section and are connected to the selection terminal 82e of the first switch 82.

[0269] (2) Effect

[0270] The high-frequency module 1 according to embodiment 8 includes a fourth filter 87 and a fifth filter 88. The first switch 82 also has a selection terminal 82d (third selection terminal) and a selection terminal 83e (fourth selection terminal). Selection terminal 82d is connected to the fourth filter 87. Selection terminal 82e is connected to the fifth filter 88. The fourth passband of the fourth filter 87 includes the transmission band (n256T) of the fourth communication frequency band (n256), which is a non-terrestrial network communication band. The fifth passband of the fifth filter 88 includes the reception band (n256R) of the fourth communication frequency band. According to this structure, since the fourth filter 87 and the fifth filter 88 are included, transmission and reception of the fourth communication frequency band are possible.

[0271] Furthermore, in the high-frequency module 1 according to embodiment 8, the fourth passband of the fourth filter 87 includes the transmission band (B1T) of the fifth communication band (Band 1), which is the communication band of the terrestrial network. The fifth passband of the fifth filter 88 includes the reception band (B1R) of the fifth communication band.

[0272] According to this structure, the fourth filter 87 serves as both a transmit filter for the fourth communication band and a transmit filter for the fifth communication band, thus enabling cost reduction and miniaturization of the high-frequency module. Furthermore, the fifth filter 88 serves as both a receive filter for the fourth communication band and a receive filter for the fifth communication band, thus enabling cost reduction and miniaturization of the high-frequency module.

[0273] Furthermore, in the high-frequency module 1 according to embodiment 8, the fourth communication frequency band is n256, and the fifth communication frequency band is Band1. According to this structure, when the fourth communication frequency band is n256 and the fifth communication frequency band is Band1, the aforementioned effects can be achieved.

[0274] Furthermore, in the high-frequency module 1 according to embodiment 8, the fourth filter 87 and the sixth filter 96 (i.e., the transmitting filters) are integrated into a duplexer 101, and the fifth filter 88 and the seventh filter 97 (i.e., the receiving filters) are integrated into a duplexer 102. Therefore, it is easy to separately configure the multiple filters in the high-frequency module 1 as transmitting filters and receiving filters. That is, it is easy to ensure the isolation between the transmitting filters and the receiving filters in the high-frequency module 1.

[0275] (Implementation Method 9)

[0276] (1) Structure

[0277] Reference Figure 14The high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 9 will be described below. In the following description, the structure that is the same as that in Embodiment 8 will be omitted, and the description will sometimes focus on the structure that is different from that in Embodiment 8.

[0278] like Figure 14 As shown, the high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 9 is configured the same as the high-frequency module 1 according to Embodiment 8, except for the following difference: the second filter 86, the fifth filter 88, and the seventh filter 97 (i.e., three receiving filters) constitute a tripartite 103. Embodiment 9 will now be described in detail.

[0279] In embodiment 9, as described above, the second filter 86, the fifth filter 88, and the seventh filter 97 (i.e., three receiving filters) constitute a tripod 103. The input section 86a of the second filter 86, the input section 88a of the fifth filter 88, and the input section 97a of the seventh filter 97 are composed of a common output section and are connected to the selection terminal 82c of the first switch 82.

[0280] (2) Effect

[0281] In the high-frequency module 1 according to embodiment 9, the second filter 86, the fifth filter 88, and the seventh filter 97 (i.e., all receiving filters within the high-frequency module 1) are integrated into a tripeller 103, thus making it easy to separately configure multiple filters within the high-frequency module as transmitting filters and receiving filters. That is, the isolation between the transmitting filters and receiving filters within the high-frequency module 1 can be easily ensured.

[0282] Furthermore, since the second filter 86, the fifth filter 88, and the seventh filter 97 (i.e., all the receiving filters in the high-frequency module 1) are integrated into a single filter (triplexer 103), the high-frequency module 1 can be miniaturized.

[0283] (Way)

[0284] The following methods are disclosed in this specification.

[0285] The high-frequency module (1) of the first type includes a switch (6), a first duplexer (11), and at least one second duplexer (12, 13) or at least one filter (14, 15). The first duplexer (11) is connected to the switch (6). The first duplexer (11) has a transmit filter (11T) and a receive filter (11R). The transmit filter (11T) has a passband that includes the transmit band of n255. The receive filter (11R) has a receive band that includes at least one of Band 75, Band 76 and Band 32 and a passband that includes the receive band of n255.

[0286] According to this structure, the receiving bands of at least one of Band 75, Band 76, and Band 32 (hereinafter referred to as "Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32") and the receiving band of n255 can be made common via the receiving filter (11R). Common banding means that multiple communication bands are included in the passband of a single filter. That is, the passband of the receiving filter (11R) includes the receiving band of n255 and the receiving bands of Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32. Therefore, compared with the case where each receiving filter has a receiving filter supporting the receiving band of n255 and a receiving filter supporting the receiving bands of Band 75 / Band 76 / Band 32, the high-frequency module (1) can be miniaturized.

[0287] Regarding the high-frequency module (1) of the second method, in the first method, the passband of the receiving filter (11R) also includes the communication frequency band used for GPS.

[0288] According to this structure, the high-frequency module can be miniaturized compared to cases where a receiving filter is provided to support the communication band used for GPS.

[0289] Regarding the third-party high-frequency module (1), in the second embodiment, it further includes a first low-noise amplifier (20) and a second low-noise amplifier (30). The first low-noise amplifier (20) is connected to a receiving filter (11R). The second low-noise amplifier (30) is located in the first signal path (M1) of the first signal path (M1) and the second signal path (M2) branching off from the first low-noise amplifier (20), and amplifies the signal in the communication frequency band used for GPS.

[0290] According to this structure, the signals of each communication frequency band of the multiple communication frequency bands (GPS(L1), n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) that are co-banded can be amplified by a shared first low-noise amplifier (20). Furthermore, the signal of the communication frequency band used for GPS can be amplified by a second low-noise amplifier (30). Therefore, even if the received signal strength of the communication frequency band used for GPS is weaker than the received signal strength of the remaining communication frequency bands (n255, Band75, Band76, Band32), the signals of each communication frequency band of the multiple co-banded communication frequency bands can be amplified to a signal strength suitable for signal processing by the first low-noise amplifier (20) and the second low-noise amplifier (30).

[0291] Regarding the high-frequency module (1) of the fourth method, in the second method, it includes a low-noise amplifier (20), a demultiplexer (40), and a variable attenuator (41). The low-noise amplifier (20) is connected to a receiving filter (11R). The demultiplexer (40) demultiplexes the first signal of the communication frequency band for GPS contained in the output signal of the low-noise amplifier (20) and outputs it to the first signal path (M1), and demultiplexes the second signal of the receiving frequency band of at least one of n255, Band75, Band76, and Band32 contained in the output signal of the low-noise amplifier (20) and outputs it to the second signal path (M2). The variable attenuator (41) is provided in the second signal path (M2) to attenuate the second signal.

[0292] According to this structure, the signals of each communication band of the multiple communication bands (GPS(L1), n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) that are co-banded can be amplified by a shared low-noise amplifier (20). As a result, the high-frequency module (1) can be miniaturized. In addition, the second signal that is demultiplexed to the second signal path (M2) by the demultiplexer (40) can be attenuated by a variable attenuator (41). As a result, even if the received signal strength of the communication band used for GPS is lower than the received signal strength of the remaining communication bands (n255, Band75, Band76, Band32), the signals of each communication band of the multiple co-banded communication bands can be amplified to a signal strength suitable for signal processing.

[0293] Regarding the high-frequency module (1) of the fifth method, in the second method, it includes a low-noise amplifier (20), a coupler (50), and a variable element (60). The low-noise amplifier (20) is connected to a receiving filter (11R). The coupler (50) has a main line (51) and a secondary line (52). The main line (51) is connected to the low-noise amplifier (20). The secondary line (52) is electromagnetically coupled to the main line (51). The variable element (60) is a variable element disposed on the secondary line (52) and used to adjust the coupling amount of the electromagnetic coupling between the main line (51) and the secondary line (52). The coupler (50) splits the signal of at least one of the receiving frequency bands of n255, Band75, Band76, and Band32 from the output signal of the low-noise amplifier (20) through the main line (51) and outputs it to the secondary line (52).

[0294] According to this structure, the signals of each communication band (GPS(L1), n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) of multiple communication bands that are common-frequency bands can be amplified by a shared low-noise amplifier (20). As a result, the high-frequency module (1) can be miniaturized. In addition, the electromagnetic coupling between the main line (51) and the sub-line (52) can be adjusted by a variable element (60).

[0295] Regarding the high-frequency module (1) of the sixth method, the fifth method also includes a variable attenuator (70). The variable attenuator (70) is located on the main line (51) to attenuate the output signal of the low-noise amplifier (20) through the main line (51).

[0296] According to this structure, the output signal of the receiving filter (11R) can be amplified by the low-noise amplifier (20) to make the signal (n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) taken from the sub-line (52) a signal strength suitable for signal processing (e.g., demodulation). Furthermore, the output signal of the low-noise amplifier (20) can be attenuated by the variable attenuator (70) to make the signal (signal of the communication band used for GPS) taken from the main line (51) a signal strength suitable for signal processing. As a result, the signals of each of the multiple communication bands (GPS(L1), n255, Band75, Band76, Band32) that have been co-banded can be amplified to a signal strength suitable for signal processing.

[0297] The communication device (25) of the seventh method includes a high-frequency module (1) of any one of the first to sixth methods, and a signal processing circuit (2). The signal processing circuit (2) is connected to the high-frequency module (1) and performs signal processing on the high-frequency signal.

[0298] Based on this structure, a communication device with the effect of a high-frequency module can be provided.

[0299] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0300] 1: High-frequency module

[0301] 2: Signal processing circuit

[0302] 2a: RF signal processing circuit

[0303] 2b: Baseband signal processing circuit

[0304] 3: Antenna

[0305] 5a~5j: External terminals

[0306] 6: Switch

[0307] 6a: Common terminal

[0308] 6b~6f: Select terminals

[0309] 7: Switch

[0310] 7a: Common terminal

[0311] 7b, 7c, 7d: Select terminals

[0312] 8: Switch

[0313] 8a~8c: Common terminals

[0314] 8d, 8e: Select terminals

[0315] 9: Switch

[0316] 9a, 9b: Common terminals

[0317] 9c, 9d: Select terminal

[0318] 10: Switch

[0319] 10a, 10b: Common terminals

[0320] 10c, 10d: Select terminal

[0321] 11: First duplexer

[0322] 11a: Input / Output Section

[0323] 11b: Input Section

[0324] 11c: Output section

[0325] 11R: Receiver filter

[0326] 11T: Transmit Filter

[0327] 12: Second duplexer

[0328] 12a: Input / Output Section

[0329] 12b: Input Section

[0330] 12c: Output section

[0331] 12R: Receiver filter

[0332] 12T: Transmit Filter

[0333] 13: Second duplexer

[0334] 13a: Input / Output Section

[0335] 13b: Input Section

[0336] 13c: Output section

[0337] 13R: Receiver filter

[0338] 13T: Transmit Filter

[0339] 14, 15: Filters

[0340] 14a, 15a: First Input / Output Section

[0341] 14b, 15b: Second Input / Output Section

[0342] 17, 18: Power Amplifier

[0343] 17a, 18a: Input Section

[0344] 17b, 18b: Output section

[0345] 20: Low-noise amplifier (first low-noise amplifier)

[0346] 20a: Input Section

[0347] 20b: Output section

[0348] 21~24: Low-noise amplifier

[0349] 21a~24a: Input Section

[0350] 21b~24b: Output section

[0351] 25: Communication device

[0352] 30: Second Low Noise Amplifier

[0353] 30a: Input Section

[0354] 30b: Output section

[0355] 40: Demultiplexer

[0356] 40a: Input Section

[0357] 40b: First Output Section

[0358] 40c: Second Output Section

[0359] 41: Variable attenuator

[0360] 41a: Input Section

[0361] 41b: Output section

[0362] 50: Coupler

[0363] 51: Main Line

[0364] 52: Secondary Line

[0365] 60: Variable element

[0366] 70: Variable attenuator

[0367] 70a: Input Section

[0368] 70b: Output section

[0369] 81: First Switch

[0370] 81a~81h: External terminals

[0371] 82: First Switch

[0372] 82a: Common terminal (first common terminal)

[0373] 82b: Selection terminal (first selection terminal)

[0374] 82c: Select terminal (second select terminal)

[0375] 82d, 82e: Select terminal

[0376] 83: Second Switch

[0377] 83a: Common terminal (second common terminal)

[0378] 83b: Selection terminal (third selection terminal)

[0379] 83c: Select Terminal (Fourth Select Terminal)

[0380] 84: First Filter

[0381] 84a: Input Section

[0382] 84b: Output section

[0383] 85: Tri-tool

[0384] 86: Second Filter

[0385] 86a: Input Section

[0386] 86b: Output section

[0387] 87: Fourth Filter

[0388] 87a: Input Section

[0389] 87b: Output section

[0390] 88: Fifth Filter

[0391] 88a: Input Section

[0392] 88b: Output section

[0393] 89: Third Filter

[0394] 89a: Input Section

[0395] 89b: Output section

[0396] 90: First Low Noise Amplifier

[0397] 90a: Input Section

[0398] 90b: Output section

[0399] 91: Second Low Noise Amplifier

[0400] 91a: Input Section

[0401] 91b: Output Section

[0402] 92: Third Low Noise Amplifier

[0403] 92a: Input Section

[0404] 92b: Output section

[0405] 93: First power amplifier

[0406] 93a: Input Section

[0407] 93b: Output Section

[0408] 94: Second Power Amplifier

[0409] 94a: Input Section

[0410] 94b: Output section

[0411] 95: Duplexer

[0412] 96: Sixth Filter

[0413] 96a: Input Section

[0414] 96b: Output Section

[0415] 97: Seventh Filter

[0416] 97a: Input Section

[0417] 97b: Output Section

[0418] 98: Duplexer

[0419] 99: Fourth Low Noise Amplifier

[0420] 99a: Input Section

[0421] 99b: Output section

[0422] 100: Third power amplifier

[0423] 100a: Input Section

[0424] 100b: Output Section

[0425] 101, 102: Duplexer

[0426] 103: Tri-tool

[0427] 104: Band-stop filter

[0428] 104a: Input Section

[0429] 104b: Output section

[0430] C1: Variable capacitor

[0431] M1: First signal path

[0432] M2: Second signal path

[0433] N1: Branch point

[0434] R1: Variable resistor

Claims

1. A high-frequency module, comprising: switch; A first duplexer, which is connected to the switch; and At least one second duplexer or at least one filter connected to the switch in, The first duplexer has: A transmitting filter having a passband that includes the transmitting frequency band of n255; and A receiving filter having a passband that includes at least one of Band 75, Band 76 and Band 32 and the receiving band of n255.

2. The high-frequency module according to claim 1, wherein, The passband of the receiving filter also includes the communication frequency band used by the Global Positioning System (GPS).

3. The high-frequency module according to claim 2, wherein, It also has: A first low-noise amplifier, which is connected to the receiving filter; and The second low-noise amplifier is disposed in the first signal path of the first signal path and the second signal path, which branch off at a position later than the first low-noise amplifier, and amplifies the signal of the communication frequency band used by GPS.

4. The high-frequency module according to claim 2, wherein, It also has: A low-noise amplifier connected to the receiving filter; The demultiplexer demultiplexes the output signal of the low noise amplifier to the first signal of the communication frequency band used for GPS and outputs it to the first signal path, and demultiplexes the output signal of the low noise amplifier to the second signal of the receiving frequency band of at least one of n255, Band75, Band76 and Band32 and outputs it to the second signal path. as well as A variable attenuator is provided in the second signal path to attenuate the second signal.

5. The high-frequency module according to claim 2, wherein, It also has: A low-noise amplifier connected to the receiving filter; A coupler having a main line connected to the low-noise amplifier and a secondary line electromagnetically coupled to the main line; as well as A variable element, disposed in the secondary circuit, is used to adjust the amount of electromagnetic coupling between the primary circuit and the secondary circuit. The coupler demultiplexes the signal from the output signal of the low-noise amplifier through the main line to extract the receiving frequency band of at least one of n255, Band75, Band76 and Band32 and outputs it to the secondary line.

6. The high-frequency module according to claim 5, wherein, It also features a variable attenuator, which is located on the main line to attenuate the output signal of the low-noise amplifier passing through the main line.

7. A high-frequency module, comprising: Antenna terminals; A first switch has a first common terminal connected to the antenna terminal, and a first selection terminal and a second selection terminal that can be connected to the first common terminal. A first filter is connected to the first selection terminal; as well as The second filter is connected to the second selection terminal. The first passband of the first filter includes the transmission band of the first communication frequency band, which is a non-terrestrial network communication frequency band. The second passband of the second filter includes the receiving band of the first communication band and the receiving band of the second communication band, where the second communication band is the communication band of the terrestrial network.

8. The high-frequency module according to claim 7, wherein, The second passband of the second filter also includes the communication band of the third communication band, which is the communication band of the Global Positioning System, i.e., GPS.

9. The high-frequency module according to claim 8, wherein, It also has: First output terminal; Second output terminal; The second switch has a second common terminal connected to the second filter, a third selection terminal connected to the first output terminal, and a fourth selection terminal connected to the second output terminal; A first low-noise amplifier is connected between the second filter and the second common terminal of the second switch; A second low-noise amplifier is connected between the third selection terminal and the first output terminal; as well as Third filter, The third filter is connected between the second low-noise amplifier and the first output terminal. The third passband of the third filter includes the communication band of the third communication frequency band, but does not include the communication band of the first communication frequency band.

10. The high-frequency module according to claim 8, wherein, It also has: First output terminal; Second output terminal; The second switch has a second common terminal connected to the second filter, a third selection terminal connected to the first output terminal, and a fourth selection terminal connected to the second output terminal; A first low-noise amplifier is connected between the second filter and the second common terminal; A second low-noise amplifier is connected between the third selection terminal and the first output terminal; and Third filter, The third filter is connected between the second filter and the first low-noise amplifier. The third passband of the third filter includes the communication band of the third communication frequency band, but does not include the communication band of the first communication frequency band.

11. The high-frequency module according to claim 8, wherein, It also has: First output terminal; Second output terminal; The second switch has a second common terminal connected to the second filter, a third selection terminal connected to the first output terminal, and a fourth selection terminal connected to the second output terminal; A first low-noise amplifier is connected between the second filter and the second common terminal; A second low-noise amplifier is connected between the third selection terminal and the first output terminal; and Third filter, The third filter is connected between the second switch and the second low-noise amplifier. The third passband of the third filter includes the communication band of the third communication frequency band, but does not include the communication band of the first communication frequency band.

12. The high-frequency module according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein, The first communication frequency band is n255. The second communication frequency band is one or more of Band75, Band76, and Band32.

13. The high-frequency module according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein, It also has: A fourth filter, which is connected to the second selection terminal; and The fifth filter is connected to the second selection terminal. The fourth passband of the fourth filter includes the transmission band of the fourth communication frequency band, which is the communication frequency band of the non-terrestrial network. The fifth passband of the fifth filter includes the receiving band of the fourth communication frequency band.

14. The high-frequency module according to claim 13, wherein, The fourth passband of the fourth filter also includes the transmission band of the fifth communication frequency band, which is the communication frequency band of the terrestrial network. The fifth passband of the fifth filter also includes the receiving band of the fifth communication frequency band.

15. The high-frequency module according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, The high-frequency module also includes a fourth filter and a fifth filter. The first switch also has: A third selection terminal, which is connected to the fourth filter; and The fourth selection terminal is connected to the fifth filter. The fourth passband of the fourth filter includes the transmission band of the fourth communication frequency band, which is the communication frequency band of the non-terrestrial network. The fifth passband of the fifth filter includes the receiving band of the fourth communication frequency band.

16. The high-frequency module according to claim 15, wherein, The fourth passband of the fourth filter also includes the transmission band of the fifth communication frequency band, which is the communication frequency band of the terrestrial network. The fifth passband of the fifth filter also includes the receiving band of the fifth communication frequency band.

17. The high-frequency module according to claim 14 or 16, wherein, The fourth communication frequency band is n256. The fifth communication frequency band is Band1.

18. A communication device comprising: The high-frequency module according to any one of claims 1 to 17; and A signal processing circuit, which is connected to the high-frequency module, performs signal processing on the high-frequency signal.

Images