WIFI-7 OPTIMIZED SPLIT-BAND ARCHITECTURE AND OPERATION

Abstract

A system or access point with a split-band architecture. A first radio communicates with a 6G front-end module (FEM) connected to a first filter switch bank (FSB) configured to activate a 6G high-bandpass filter, a 6G wide-bandpass filter, or a 6G narrow-bandpass filter. A second radio communicates with a 5G FEM connected to a second FSB configured to activate a 6G low-pass filter, a first 5G low-pass filter, a 5G wide-pass filter, or a 5G narrow-pass filter. A third radio communicates with a 2-5G dual-band FEM connected to a third FSB configured to activate a 6G full-bandpass filter, a 5G high-bandpass filter, or a second 5G low-bandpass filter. The 2-5G dual FEM can also be connected to a fourth FSB configured for a 2G application.

Description

[0001] The U-NII (Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure) radio band is a portion of the unlicensed radio frequency spectrum used by IEEE 802.11 devices and wireless Internet service providers (ISPs) for Wi-Fi communications. Currently, U-NII allocates Wi-Fi channels in the 5 GHz band in four subbands: U-NII-1 (5.150 to 5.250 GHz), U-NII-2 (5.250 GHz to 5.725 GHz), U-NII-3 (5.725 GHz to 5.850 GHz), and U-NII-4 (5.850 GHz to 5.925 GHz).

[0002] Recently, there have been efforts to use the 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi communications. For example, it has been proposed to allocate Wi-Fi channels in the 6 GHz U-NII radio band into four subbands: U-NII-5 (5.945 to 6.425 GHz), U-NII-6 (6.425 GHz to 6.525 GHz), U-NII-7 (6.525 GHz to 6.875 GHz), and U-NII-8 (6.875 GHz to 7.125 GHz). Such channel allocation in the 6 GHz band would significantly increase the number of available channels for Wi-Fi communications, especially since the currently available Wi-Fi bands (e.g., 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz) are becoming increasingly congested due to use by ISPs and wireless local area networks (WLANs). In addition, such channel allocation in the 6 GHz band offers the possibility of higher aggregate throughput across all Wi-Fi bands.

[0003] The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 communications standards, commonly referred to as Wi-Fi, specify a set of MAC (Medium Access Control) and PHY (Physical Layer) protocols for implementing computer communications in wireless local area networks (WLANs). The IEEE 802.11 protocol refers to a set of interface standards developed by the IEEE 802.11 committee for short-range communications. For example, devices implementing the IEEE 802.11 protocol can use both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz radios for transmitting and receiving data and management frames between devices with similar radio configurations.

[0004] Wi-Fi 7 is the successor to Wi-Fi 6 / 6E and offers 320 MHz of bandwidth in the 6 GHz band. Wi-Fi 7 promises to significantly increase the speed and stability of wireless connections, while also offering lower latency and the ability to seamlessly manage more connections than before. However, a coexistence issue arises when 6 GHz and 5 GHz clients communicate asynchronously with the same access point (AP). Brief description of the drawings

[0005] The present disclosure will be described in detail in accordance with one or more various embodiments with reference to the following figures. The figures are for illustrative purposes only and represent merely typical or exemplary embodiments. Fig. is a block diagram of a network device for continuous 5 GHz and 6 GHz operation through selective filtering according to an example of the present disclosure Fig. is a block diagram of a switching device for selective filtering for continuous 5 GHz and 6 GHz operation according to an example of the present disclosure. Fig. is an example of a computer component that may be used to implement various features of the examples described in the present disclosure. Fig. shows a table with examples of modes in which an AP or network device can operate according to the examples of the present disclosure. Fig. shows a block diagram of an exemplary computer system in which various embodiments described herein may be implemented.

[0006] The figures are not exhaustive and do not limit the present disclosure to the precise form disclosed. Detailed description

[0007] Examples of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for operating an optimized split-band architecture that can provide (1) continuous 5 GHz and 6 GHz operation through selective filtering, (2) split-band operation, (3) an ultra low latency (ULL) mode, and / or (4) intelligent spectrum scanning.

[0008] MLO (Multi-Link Operation) is a key MAC feature introduced in Wi-Fi 7. MLO enables devices to simultaneously send and receive data over different frequency bands and channels, such as a 2.4 GHz band, a 5 GHz band, and a 6 GHz band. More specifically, MLO is a unique feature of the IEEE 802.11be Wi-Fi 7 Extremely High Throughput (EHT) standard that allows network devices such as access points (APs) and client devices to send and receive data of the same traffic flow over multiple radio channels. For example, a first network device (e.g., the AP) may implement multiple radios, such as a 2.4 GHz radio and a 5 GHz radio, and each of these radios can communicate with a similar or overlapping frequency radio on a second network device (e.g., the client device). Accordingly, multi-link devices (MLDs) can communicate with each other over multiple connections (e.g., 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz).The ability to use multiple connections increases throughput.

[0009] The introduction of a 320 MHz channel as part of the IEEE 802.11be (WiFi-7) standard in the 6 GHz band, combined with 160 MHz channels in the 5 GHz band (particularly through the approval of the UNII-4 subband), has exacerbated the coexistence problem that exists when 6 GHz and 5 GHz clients communicate asynchronously with the same access point. While this coexistence problem has been resolved for 160 MHz channels in UNII-5, a new solution is required for operation at 320 MHz. 320 MHz channels can not only be critical from the perspective of a higher physical layer (PHY) rate, but they also offer lower latency due to the higher PHY rate. The PHY rate is the maximum speed at which data can be transmitted over a wireless connection between a wireless client and a wireless router. It is noteworthy that the new 6 GHz band is generally less congested because fewer devices are operating there.

[0010] The new 6 GHz band also offers an intelligent beaconing scheme that can save airtime and enables only communication based on the IEEE 802.11ax Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) protocol, which is inherently well-suited to providing lower latency by enabling efficient spectrum utilization (using resource units) and scheduling. These factors, when combined, can lead to even lower latency, unmatched in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. However, offering 320 MHz channels and split-band modes (particularly the splitting of 6 GHz for the new ULL mode) requires addressing intermodulation distortion (IMD) and interference.

[0011] One solution is to develop steep, wide-bandwidth rejection filters and high-linearity radio frequency (RF) switches to realize an RF front end that enables the aforementioned operating modes. The present disclosure offers inventive ways to offer these modes while keeping the cost low enough to realize such a design cost-effectively.

[0012] With the WiFi-7 IEEE 802.11.be standard, key features like MLO offer some new opportunities to dynamically and flexibly utilize AP radios to offer channels that enable low latency. Furthermore, some differentiation from previous-generation Wi-Fi 6E APs is required, as customers will gradually migrate their networks as WiFi-7 becomes more popular with customers and future applications.

[0013] The traditional architecture of AP radios typically involves a static configuration of roles / bands for each radio at design time, either through the choice of the front-end module (FEM) or through the choice of filters. The radios themselves are capable of operating in any of the three currently used Wi-Fi bands (2 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz), but transmit (TX) power requirements for range and filter specifications for simultaneous operation in adjacent bands can limit the choice of what can be used on the radios' front ends.

[0014] To enable a pair of radios to operate in the same or adjacent band, appropriate filter protection should be inserted into the line. Switched filter banks (SFBs) have been used for dynamic configurability, but as the number of poles on such switched filter banks increases, combined with high rejection requirements at closely adjacent frequencies of the filters on such banks, the linearity requirements for such switches increase. Covering the entire range of the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands with a common FEM is challenging, and manufacturers often produce only medium- or low-power versions of these devices to serve the client or low-end AP market.

[0015] Technical improvements are realized by the disclosure. For example, the above-mentioned coexistence problem that exists when 6 GHz clients and 5 GHz clients communicate with the same AP asynchronously for 320 MHz channels can be solved by the features of the present disclosure. Examples of the present disclosure result in a redesign of the filters and architecture to enable 320 MHz operation and basic Wi-Fi 7 in all bands. A notable feature of this approach lies in the configuration and operation of the switched filter bank, that is, the choice of filters and the way the filters operate—their split operation—in combination with the front-end. Examples of the present disclosure provide additional switched paths to enable other filter transition possibilities and split in-band operation or cross-band capabilities.Simply adding additional paths for such highly selective filters is not easy to accomplish, partly because the filter's effectiveness can be negated if the linearity of the switch itself is not adequately addressed. Conventional radio frequency (RF) switches for more than two poles do not meet the requirements required for this application unless the technology moves to a higher class of switch (e.g., for military or radar applications), which would still not be cost-effective for commercially deployable electronics. An example of the disclosed technology is a three-radio approach for an AP. Examples from the present disclosure can improve latency.

[0016] The present disclosure, according to one example, provides a non-transitory machine-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed, cause a processor to operate a network device, the instructions causing the processor to operate a 6 GHz front-end module that communicates with a first radio in a 6 GHz mode or a first split 5 GHz / 6 GHz mode. The instructions further cause the processor to operate a 5 GHz front-end module that communicates with a second radio in a 5 GHz mode, the first split 5G / 6G mode, or a second split 5 GHz / 6 GHz mode. The instructions further cause the processor to operate a 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module that communicates with a third radio to operate as a 2-5 GHz 802.11be front-end module, such that the 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module operates in a 2 GHz mode, the second split 5G / 6G mode, or a scan radio mode. The instructions may further cause the processor to: configure the 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module to switch to 2 GHz mode.

[0017] The present disclosure provides, according to another example, a system having a split-band architecture. The system includes a first radio communicating with a 6 GHz front-end module (FEM) connected to a first filter switch bank (FSB) configured to enable a 6 GHz high-bandpass filter, a 6 GHz wide-bandpass filter, or a 6 GHz narrow-bandpass filter. A second radio communicating with a 5 GHz front-end module connected to a second filter switch bank configured to enable a 6 GHz low-pass filter, a first 5 GHz low-pass filter, a 5 GHz wide-pass filter, or a 5 GHz narrow-pass filter. A third radio communicates with a 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module connected to a third filter switch bank configured to enable a 6 GHz full-band path, a 5 GHz high-bandpass filter, or a second 5 GHz low-bandpass filter.The 2-5 GHz dual front-end module can also be connected to a fourth filter switch bank configured to enable a 2 GHz application. The system can be an access point (AP).

[0018] In examples, the 6 GHz front-end module and the 5 GHz front-end module each conform to the IEEE 802.11be standard. The 6 GHz low-pass filter can be up to 500 MHz for a low-band 6G application. The 6G narrow-band pass filter can be up to 320 MHz. The 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module can be configured to use the 6 GHz full-band path as a 6 GHz scan radio. The 6 GHz front-end module can be configured to operate in a 6 GHz mode with the 6 GHz high-band pass filter, the 6 GHz wide-band pass filter, or the 6 GHz narrow-band pass filter. The 5 GHz front-end module can be configured to operate in a first split 5G / 6G mode, such that operation in 5 GHz mode uses the first 5 GHz low-pass filter, the 5 GHz wide-pass filter, or the 5 GHz narrow-pass filter, and operation in 6 GHz mode uses the 6 GHz low-pass filter for a low 6 GHz application.

[0019] The 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module can be configured to operate as a 2-5 GHz 802.11be front-end module, allowing the 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module to operate in a second split 5G / 6G mode, where 5 GHz mode operation uses the 5 GHz high bandpass filter or the second 5 GHz low bandpass filter, and 6G mode operation uses the dedicated 5 GHz receive path from the third radio to the 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module to receive over the 6 GHz full-band path.

[0020] The present disclosure provides, according to another example, a method of operating a network device. The method includes operating a 6 GHz front-end module communicating with a first radio in a 6 GHz mode using a 6 GHz high bandpass filter, a 6 GHz wide bandpass filter, or a 6 GHz narrow bandpass filter. The method also includes operating a 5 GHz front-end module communicating with a second radio in a first split 5G / 6G mode, such that operation in 5 GHz mode includes using a first 5 GHz low-pass filter, a 5 GHz wide-pass filter, or a 5 GHz narrow-pass filter, and operation in 6 GHz mode includes using a 6 GHz low-pass filter for a low 6 GHz application. The method also includes operating a 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module communicating with a third radio to act as a 2-5 GHz 802.11be front-end module such that the 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module operates in a second split 5G / 6G mode, wherein operation in 5 GHz mode comprises using a 5 GHz high bandpass filter or a second 5 GHz low bandpass filter, and operation in 6 GHz mode comprises configuring a dedicated 5 GHz receive path from the third radio to the 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module to receive using a 6 GHz full-band path. The method may also include configuring the 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module to switch to a 2 GHz application. The method may also include using the 6 GHz full-band path associated with the third radio as a 6 GHz scanning radio. In examples, the 5 GHz front-end module and the 6 GHz front-end module each conform to the IEEE 802.11be standard.

[0021] The present disclosure, according to another example, provides a non-transitory machine-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed, cause a processor to operate a split-band architecture, the instructions causing the processor to: (1) operate a 6 GHz front-end module communicating with a first radio in a 6 GHz mode using a 6 GHz high bandpass filter, a 6 GHz wide bandpass filter, or a 6 GHz narrow bandpass filter; (2) operating a 5 GHz front-end module communicating with a second radio in a first split 5G / 6G mode, such that operation in 5 GHz mode includes the use of a first 5 GHz low-pass filter, a 5 GHz wide-pass filter, or a 5 GHz narrow-pass filter, and operation in 6 GHz mode includes the use of a 6 GHz low-pass filter for a low-6 GHz application;and (3) operating a 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module communicating with a third radio to operate as a 2-5 GHz 802.11be front-end module such that the 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module operates in a second split 5G / 6G mode, wherein operation in the 5 GHz mode includes using a 5 GHz high bandpass filter or a second 5 GHz low bandpass filter, and operation in the 6 GHz mode includes configuring a dedicated 5 GHz receive path from the third radio to the 2-5 GHz dual-band front-end module to receive using a 6 GHz full band path.;

[0022] Fig. together comprise a system, architecture, or network device 100 according to an example of the present disclosure. The network device 100 may, for example, be an AP Wi-Fi frontend. In particular, Fig. A block diagram of a network device 100 for (1) continuous 5 GHz and 6 GHz operation, (2) split-band operation, (3) an ultra-low latency (ULL) mode, and / or (4) intelligent spectrum scanning through selective filtering, according to an example of the present disclosure. The network device 100 includes at least one processing resource 110 and at least one machine-readable medium 120 that includes (e.g., encoded with) at least instructions 122 executable by the at least one processing resource 110 of the network device 100 to implement the functionalities described herein with respect to the instructions 122.

[0023] In the example of Fig. Network device 100 may perform any network data transfer operations, including, but not limited to, switching, routing, bridging, or a combination thereof. In some examples, network device 100 may include a wireless access point (WAP) or access point (AP). In the examples described herein, a WAP generally refers to receiving points for any known or suitable wireless access technology that may later become known. In particular, the term WAP is not intended to be limited to WAPs that conform to the IEEE 802.11 standards. A WAP is generally an electronic device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network using various communications standards.A WAP may include all of the necessary hardware components to carry out the inventions disclosed herein, including, but not limited to: processors, memory, displays, input devices, communication devices, etc. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that network device 100 may be any suitable type of network device from one or more suitable manufacturers.

[0024] In the example of Fig. The network device 100 includes a first radio 130, a second radio 132, and a third radio 134. In some examples, each of the first radio 130, the second radio 132, and the third radio 134 may operate on one or more frequency bands conforming to one or more IEEE standards (e.g., 802.11ax). In some examples, the first radio 130 may operate on one or more channels in the 6-7 GHz band. For example, the first radio 130 may operate on one or more channels in the U-NII-5, U-NII-6, U-NII-7, and U-NII-8 subbands. In some examples, the second radio 132 may operate on one or more channels in the 5 GHz or 6 GHz band. For example, the second radio 132 may operate on one or more channels in the proposed subbands U-NII-1, U-NII-2, U-NII-3, U-NII-4, and U-NII-5.One skilled in the art will understand that the first radio 130, the second radio 132, and the third radio 134 may operate in any suitable frequency band and conform to any suitable type of wireless communication standards known today or later developed. Although . Fig. shows the network device 100 with three radios, one skilled in the art will understand that the network device 100 may include any number of radios.

[0025] In the example of Fig. The network device includes a first antenna 150, a second antenna 152, and a third antenna 154. In some examples, each of the first antenna 150, the second antenna 152, and the third antenna 154 can transmit and / or receive directional signals, non-directional signals, or a combination thereof. In the examples described herein, a "directional" signal refers to a signal that radiates more strongly in one or more directions compared to one or more other directions along an azimuthal plane (i.e., a horizontal plane), while a "non-directional" signal refers to a signal that radiates equally in all directions along an azimuthal plane. In some examples, the first antenna 150, the second antenna 152, and the third antenna 154 can each be a phased array antenna.In the examples described herein, a "phased array antenna" refers to an array of antenna elements capable of generating a directional signal that can be electronically controlled to point in different directions without moving the antenna elements. In such examples, a phased array antenna may include an array of directional and / or omnidirectional antenna elements capable of focusing (i.e., transmitting, receiving) RF energy in specific spatial directions. Those skilled in the art will understand that the first antenna 150, the second antenna 152, and the third antenna 154 may comprise any suitable type of antenna(s) known today or later developed. Although . Fig. shows the network device 100 with three antennas, those skilled in the art will understand that the network device 100 may include any number of antennas.

[0026] In the example of Fig. The network device 100 includes a filter switch bank (FSB) or switching device 200. In some examples, the switching device 200 may be connected to the first radio 130, the second radio 132, the third radio 134, the first antenna 150, the second antenna 152, and the third antenna 154. In some examples, the switching device 200 may include one or more switches connected to one or more of the first radio 130, the second radio 132, the third radio 134, the first antenna 150, the second antenna 152, and the third antenna 154. In some examples, switching device 200 may include one or more filters connected to one or more of the following: first radio 130, second radio 132, third radio 134, first antenna 150, second antenna 152, and third antenna 154.

[0027] In the example of Fig. The first radio 130 is connected to the switching device 200 via a first front-end module FEM 202. The second radio 132 is connected to the switching device 200 via a second FEM 204. The third radio 134 is connected to the switching device 200 via a diplexer 208 and a third FEM 206. A diplexer 209 is also arranged between the third antenna 154 and the switching device 200. In some examples, an RTC8613MU component may be part of the switching device 200; an RTC8613MU component is a single-pole triple-throw (SP3T) RF switch for selecting between different filters.

[0028] In the example of Fig. The instructions 122 may be configured to receive a first signal in a 5 GHz band or a 6 GHz band. In some examples, the first signal may be received by the first antenna 150 of the network device 100. In the example of Fig. Instructions 122 may be configured to generate a second signal in the other of the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands. In some examples, the second signal may be generated by the second radio 132 of the network device 100, where the second radio 132 operates in the other of the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands.

[0029] Fig. 2 is a block diagram of the switching device 200 for selective filtering for continuous 5 GHz and 6 GHz operation according to an example of the present disclosure. Due to the features of the present disclosure, selective filtering for continuous 5 GHz and 6 GHz operation can be achieved, even for 320 MHz channels or . The switching device 200 comprises a first switch 210, a second switch 212, a third switch 214, a fourth switch 216, a fifth switch 218, a sixth switch 219, a seventh switch 221, and an eighth switch 223. In addition, the switching device 200 comprises a first filter 220, a second filter 222, a third filter 224, a fourth filter 226, a fifth filter 228, a sixth filter 230, a seventh filter 232, a full-band path 234, an eighth filter 236, a ninth filter 238, a tenth filter 240, an eleventh filter 242, and a twelfth filter 244.In some examples, a first filter switch bank (FSB) may include the filters and switches in line with the first radio 130, a second FSB may include the filters and switches in line with the second radio 132, and a third FSB may include the filters and switches in line with the third radio 134. Other example structures are readily contemplated.

[0030] In the example of Fig. The first switch 210, the third switch 214, the fourth switch 216, the fifth switch 218, the seventh switch 221, and the eighth switch 223 may comprise a single-pole, triple-throw (SP3T) switch. The second switch 212 and the sixth switch 219 may represent a single-pole, quadruple-throw (SP4T) switch. Depending on the architecture, other single-pole, multi-turn switches may also be suitable. One skilled in the art will understand that the switches 210-223 may consist of any suitable types of switches known today or later developed. Also in the example of Fig. Each of the filters 220-244 may be a low-temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) filter, a dielectric cavity resonant (DR) filter, a surface acoustic wave (SAW) filter, a bulk acoustic wave (BAW) filter, other filters, or a combination thereof. One skilled in the art will understand that the filters 220-244 may include any suitable type of filter known today or later developed.

[0031] In the example of Fig. The switching device 200 may be connected to a network device. In some examples, the switching device 200 may be connected to switches and filters of the network device 100. In some examples, the first switch 210 may be connected to the first radio 130 of the network device 100 via the first front-end module (FEM) 202. The second switch 212 may be connected to the second radio 132 of the network device 100 via the second FEM 204. The third switch 214 and the fourth switch 216 may be connected to the third radio 134 of the network device 100 via the diplexer 208 and the third FEM 206.

[0032] The fifth switch 218 can be connected to the first antenna 150 of the network device 100, and the sixth switch 219 can be connected to the second antenna 152 of the network device 100. The seventh switch 221 and the eighth switch 223 can be connected to the third antenna 154 via the diplexer 209.

[0033] The first, second, and third filters 220, 222, 224 are connected to the first and fifth switches 210, 218. The fourth to seventh filters 226, 228, 230, 232 are connected to the second and sixth switches 212, 219. The full-band passpath 234 is connected to the third and seventh switches 214, 221. The eighth and ninth filters 236, 238 are connected to the third and seventh switches 214, 221. The tenth to twelfth filters 240, 242, 244 are connected to the fourth and eighth switches 216, 223.

[0034] In one example of the present disclosure, the first radio 130 is a 6-7 GHz radio, the second radio 132 is a 5-7 GHz radio, and the third radio 134 is a 2-7 GHz radio. The first FEM 202 is a 6 GHz, 11be FEM. The second FEM 204 is a 5 GHz, 11be FEM, and the third FEM 206 is a 2-5 GHz dual-band FEM operating as a 2-5 GHz, 11be "capable" FEM.

[0035] The first, second, and third FEMs 202, 204, 206 may communicate with the central processing unit (CPU) or processing resource 110 via a Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe) bus. PCIe is a standard known in the art for high-speed serial computer expansion buses. In one example implementation, a PCIe 3.0 bus may connect the first and second radios 130, 132, while a PCIe 2.0 bus may connect the third radio 134; of course, the invention is not limited to this example, and any suitable bus may work with the system architecture disclosed herein.

[0036] The first radio 130 can generate signals that span the 6 GHz band, e.g., subbands U-NII-5, U-NII-6, U-NII-7, or U-NII-8. The first antenna 150 can transmit or receive signals in the 6 GHz band. The first switch 210 or the fifth switch 218 can select or activate one of the first, second, or third filters 220, 222, 224 to be applied to the signals in the 6 GHz band. The first filter 220 passes a 6 GHz high-band signal (6G HB), the second filter 222 passes a 6 GHz wide-band signal (6G WB), and the third filter 224 passes a 6 GHz narrow-band signal (6G NB). The 6G HB signal can be assigned, for example, in subbands U-NII-7 or U-NII-8. 6G NB covers the lower 320 MHz of the UNII-5 and 6G WB subbands and the upper 160 MHz of the UNII-5, UNII-6 / 7 / 8 subbands.

[0037] The second radio 132 is a 5-7 GHz radio (e.g., 5150 to 7125 MHz) and can generate signals that are in the 5 GHz band or the low 6 GHz band. The low 6 GHz band is the U-NII-5 subband. The second radio 132 can utilize the entire 5 GHz band and U-NII-5 from the 6 GHz band. The second antenna 152 is a 5-7 GHz antenna and can therefore transmit or receive signals in the 5-7 GHz bands. The second switch 212 or the fourth switch 219 can select or activate one of the fourth, fifth, sixth, or seventh filters 226, 228, 230, 232 to be applied to the signals in the 5 GHz or low 6 GHz band. The fourth filter 226 passes a 6 GHz low-band signal (6G LB), the fifth filter 228 passes a 5 GHz low-band signal (5G LB), the sixth filter 230 passes a 5 GHz wideband signal (5G WB), and the seventh filter 232 passes a 5 GHz narrowband signal (5G NB).For example, the 6G LB signal can be assigned to the U-NII-5 subband. The 5G LB signal can be assigned to the U-NII-1 or U-NII-2A (5250-5350) subband. 5G WB is UNII-1 / 2A / 2C, and 5G NB is UNII-3 / 4.

[0038] The third radio 134 is a 2-7 GHz radio and can generate signals, including signals in the 2 GHz band, the 5 GHz band, or the 6 GHz band. The third antenna 154 is a 2-7 GHz antenna and can therefore transmit or receive signals in the 2-7 GHz bands. The third switch 214 can select or activate the full-band passpath 234 or the eighth or ninth filters 236, 238 to be applied to the signals in the 5 GHz or 6 GHz band. The full-band passpath 234 passes a 6 GHz full-band signal (6G FB), the eighth filter 236 passes a 5 GHz high-band signal (5G HB), and the ninth filter 238 passes a 5 GHz low-band signal (5G LB). For example, the 5G HB signal can be assigned to subbands U-NII-2C (5,470-5,725), 3, or 4. The tenth filter 240 (allows channels 1 and 6 at 2.4 GHz), the eleventh filter 242 (allows channel 11 at 2.4 GHz), and the twelfth filter 244 (allows all 2.4 GHz channels) enable a 2 GHz application.As explained below, the third FEM 206 is a 2-5 GHz dual-band FEM operating as a “capable” 2-5 GHz 11be FEM. Operation of network devices

[0039] As mentioned above, the architecture of the AP Wi-Fi RF Front End or network device 100 of the example in Fig. provides three radios: first radio 130 (6-7 GHz), second radio 132 (5-7 GHz), and third radio 134 (2-7 GHz). The first radio 130 is connected to a first FEM 202 (6 GHz / 11be), which is connected to a filter switch bank including a first switch 210 and a fifth switch 218, each of which has three switches to a first filter 220 (6 GHz HB), a second filter 222 (6 GHz WB), and a third filter 224 (6 GHz NB).

[0040] The second radio 132 is connected to a second FEM 204 (5 GHz / 11be). A notable feature of the second radio 132 is the addition of a 6 GHz LB filter (fourth filter 226), which can be switched by the second switch 212 (a quad FSB), although the 5 GHz / 11be FEM (second FEM 204) is not specifically designed to support 6 GHz. Nevertheless, the second FEM 204 in the example of Fig. be used for low 6 GHz applications when the second switch 212 of this design switches to it, possibly at the expense of some performance. In the example of Fig. The way the filters are distributed among the radios, along with the configuration / architecture of the switches / filter legs as shown, can uniquely allow some of the radios to operate over wider frequency bands than intended. The second radio 132 can reasonably operate in the first 500 MHz of the U-NII-5 6 GHz band, even though it uses a dedicated 5 GHz FEM (second FEM 204). Accordingly, the second radio 132 is connected to one of 6 GHz LB, 5 GHz LB, 5 GHz WB, and 5 GHz NB via a four-switch FSB (second switch 212).

[0041] Currently, dual-band FEMs exist that cover the entire 5 GHz and 6 GHz range; however, a trade-off is that they require lower power to cover such a wide operating band and are currently only available in an older technology, 802.11ax. Matching and biasing a power amplifier (PA) to cover such a wide range can be difficult at higher power levels and is not a priority for FEM vendors. Given the much more stringent 802.11be Error Vector Magnitude (EVM) requirements and the need for higher performance from an AP or network device, coupled with typical tri-band APs that do not require such configurability, FEM vendors are unlikely to build such high-performance, wideband 802.11be FEMs anytime soon.

[0042] Accordingly, a further remark regarding the second radio 132 is that a notable application of the example structure of Fig. is to use an existing 5 GHz FEM (second FEM 204) and only put it into 6 GHz operation when using the split 6 GHz mode (through the fourth filter 226). Characterizing the 5 GHz FEM (second FEM 204) to 6 GHz may result in some performance loss at 6 GHz, but often it is the higher end of 6 GHz that is difficult to match for a wideband FEM, with only a limited (and significantly lower) performance loss at 6 GHz LB for a 5 GHz-optimized FEM. This is a compromise in that split 6 GHz applications are more likely to be used in high-density applications where power reduction is appropriate, so a second radio 132 operating a few decibels (dB) below the level of a standalone 6 GHz radio is acceptable. Accordingly, the 6 GHz LB filter (fourth filter 226) is strategically located on the second radio 132 and can complement the 5 GHz radio well.

[0043] As an example, the network device 100 and the switching device 200 of the Fig. operate in split 6 GHz mode, in which the first radio 130 is 6 GHz HB and the second radio 132 is 6 GHz LB. The network device 100 and the switching device 200 can also operate in ULL mode, which is a special case of the split 6 GHz model, in which the first radio 130 is 6 GHz HB (on a 320 MHz channel) and the second radio 132 is 6 GHz LB (on a 320 MHz channel). The network device 100 and the switching device 200 can also operate in split 5 GHz mode, in which the second radio 132 is 5 GHz LB and the third radio 134 is 5 GHz HB.

[0044] Similarly, the split 5 GHz option is shared between the second radio 132 and the third radio 134, with the third radio 134 using a 2G / 5G dual-band FEM (third FEM 206). Furthermore, the low-noise amplifier (LNA) (receive RX operation) in such FEMs is inherently wider and not subject to the same limitations as the power amplifier (transmit TX operation). Therefore, the dual 2G / 5G FEM configuration shown on the third radio 134 can also be used for 6 GHz RX for the purposes of a scanning radio. The six-tap SFB (Switch Filter Bank) on the third radio 134 (i.e., third and fourth switches 214, 216) uniquely combines Advanced IoT Coexistence (AIC) 2 GHz split-band filtering for IoT coexistence, full 5 GHz operation, and 6 GHz RX with a single dual-band FEM (third FEM 206). The current 802.11ax generation of such dual-band FEMs can even support the 802.11ax standard.11be requirements for EVM. For example, the AIC requires the tenth and eleventh filters 240, 242 with the fourth and eighth switches 216, 223.

[0045] A notable feature of the third radio 134 according to an example of the present disclosure is that it is connected to a 2-5 GHz dual-band FEM (third FEM 206), which acts as a 2-5 GHz / 11be "capable" FEM. This enables 5 GHz split-mode operation, which is another feature of this design. There are two SFBs in line with the third radio 134, namely the third switch 214 and the fourth switch 216, each having three branches. The third switch 214 switches to one of the 6 GHz FB, 5 GHz HB, and 5 GHz LB bands; the fourth switch 216 switches to a 2G application. The third FEM 206 is designed for the previous generation (Wi-Fi 6 / 6E), but in this example, it is applied to Wi-Fi 7 because there is currently no Wi-Fi 7 dual-band FEM. Accordingly, in the example of Fig. only a dual-band FEM is used as “capable.” The example of Fig. dedicates a 5 GHz receive path to reception in the new 6 GHz band (6 GHz FB) by splitting the 5 GHz and 6 GHz operations. The example of Fig. can also use the 6 GHz FB as a 6 GHz scan radio (using the low-noise 5 GHz amplifier of the third FEM 206) with little or no performance loss.

[0046] Overall, this architecture can provide classic three-band operation with full channel combination capability, in addition to split 5 GHz or split 6 GHz operation (including ULL mode), or a dedicated scan radio covering all three bands and protected from interference from the serving radios. A 2 GHz application can also be deployed. Due to the features of the present disclosure, this architecture can enable all of these features with a moderately low cost increase and with a minimization of the FEMs, extending the existing performance limitations of the FEMs in a unique way such that such a performance loss would not limit the intended application.

[0047] Fig. is an example of a computing component 300 that can be used to implement various features of continuous 5 GHz and 6 GHz operation through selective filtering according to an example of the present disclosure, e.g., operation of a split-band architecture such as that described in Fig. shown configuration of the network device 100. The network device 100 may be an AP. Due to the characteristics of Fig. Selective filtering for continuous 5 GHz and 6 GHz operation can be achieved, including 320 MHz channels or operation. Split-band operation, ULL (Ultra Low Latency) mode, and / or intelligent spectrum scanning can also be achieved.

[0048] For example, the computing component 300 may be a server computer, a controller, or other similar computing component capable of processing data. The computing component 300 may be located on the network device 100 or may be a server computer, a controller, or other similar computing component that is external to the network device 100 but communicates with it. In the example implementation of Fig. the computer component 300 comprises a hardware processor 302 and a machine-readable storage medium for 304.

[0049] The hardware processor 302 may be one or more central processing units (CPUs), semiconductor-based microprocessors, and / or other hardware devices suitable for retrieving and executing instructions stored in the machine-readable storage medium 304. The hardware processor 302 may retrieve, decode, and execute instructions, such as instructions 306-314, to perform processes or operations for implementing the various features of Fig. Alternatively, or in addition to fetching and executing instructions, the hardware processor 302 may include one or more electronic circuits that include electronic components for executing the functionality of one or more instructions, such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other electronic circuits.

[0050] A machine-readable storage medium, such as machine-readable storage medium 304, may be any electronic, magnetic, optical, or other physical storage device that contains or stores executable instructions. For example, machine-readable storage medium 304 may be random access memory (RAM), non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a storage device, an optical disk, and the like. In some embodiments, machine-readable storage medium 304 may be a non-transitory storage medium, where the term "non-transitory" does not include the transitory transmission signals. As described in detail below, machine-readable storage medium 304 may be encoded with executable instructions, such as instructions 306-314.

[0051] The hardware processor 302 may execute the instruction 306 to operate a 6 GHz / 11be FEM that communicates with a first radio in a 6 GHz mode. The 6 GHz / 11be FEM may, for example, be the first FEM 202 of Fig. The first radio can be, for example, the first radio 130 of Fig. Operation in 6 GHz mode involves the use of a 6 GHz high-bandpass filter, a 6 GHz wide-bandpass filter, or a 6 GHz narrow-bandpass filter.

[0052] The hardware processor 302 may execute instruction 308 to operate a 5 GHz / 11be FEM that communicates with a second radio in a first split 5G / 6G mode. For example, the 5 GHz / 11be FEM may Fig. The second radio can be, for example, the second radio 132 of Fig. Operation in 5 GHz mode involves the use of a first 5 GHz low-pass filter, a 5 GHz wideband filter, or a 5 GHz narrowband filter. Operation in 6 GHz mode involves the use of a 6 GHz low-pass filter for a low 6 GHz application. In one example, a low 6 GHz application is an application up to 500 MHz.

[0053] The hardware processor 302 may execute instruction 310 to operate a 2-5 GHz dual-band FEM communicating with a third radio to operate as a 2-5 GHz / 802.11be FEM, such that the 2-5 GHz dual-band FEM operates in a second split 5G / 6G mode. For example, the 2-5G dual-band FEM may be the third FEM 206 of Fig. The third radio can be, for example, the third radio 134 of Fig. Operation in 5 GHz mode involves the use of a 5 GHz high-pass filter or a second 5 GHz low-pass filter, and operation in 6 GHz mode involves configuring a dedicated 5 GHz receive path from the third radio to the 2-5 GHz dual-band FEM for reception over a 6 GHz full-band path.

[0054] The hardware processor 302 may execute instruction 312 to configure the 2-5 GHz dual-band FEM to switch to a 2 GHz application.

[0055] The hardware processor 302 may execute instruction 314 to use the 6 GHz full-band path associated with the third radio as a 6G scanning radio.

[0056] Fig. shows a table with examples of modes in which an AP or a network device such as the network device 100 of Fig. or the computer component 300 of Fig. using the switching device 200 of Fig. according to the examples of the present disclosure. The table in Fig. shows six example operating modes, numbered 1 through 6. The table also shows how the first, second, and third radios 130, 132, and 134 can be configured to achieve the various operating modes. For example, to achieve UTB (Tri-Band) mode, the first radio 130 operates at 6 GHz FB, the second radio 132 operates at 5 GHz FB, and the third radio 134 operates at 2 GHz FB. Of course, the present disclosure is not limited to the examples listed in the table.

[0057] Fig.shows a block diagram of an example computer system 500 in which various embodiments described herein may be implemented. Computer system 500 includes a bus 502 or other communication mechanism for conveying information, and one or more hardware processors 504 connected to bus 502 for processing information. For example, hardware processor(s) 504 may be one or more general-purpose microprocessors.

[0058] Computer system 500 also includes main memory 506, such as random access memory (RAM), a cache, and / or other dynamic storage devices connected to bus 502, for storing information and instructions to be executed by processor 504. Main memory 506 may also be used to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during the execution of instructions to be executed by processor 504. When such instructions are stored in storage media accessible to processor 504, computer system 500 becomes a special-purpose machine adapted to perform the operations specified in the instructions.

[0059] Computer system 500 further includes a read-only memory (ROM) 508 or other static storage device connected to bus 502 for storing static information and instructions for processor 504. A storage device 510, such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a USB flash drive, etc., is provided and connected to bus 502 for storing information and instructions.

[0060] Computer system 500 may be coupled to a display 512, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) (or a touchscreen), via bus 502 to display information to a computer user. An input device 514, including alphanumeric and other keys, is coupled to bus 502 to communicate information and command selections to processor 504. Another type of user input device is cursor control 516, such as a mouse, trackball, or cursor direction keys, for communicating direction information and command selections to processor 504 and controlling cursor movement on display 512. In some embodiments, the same direction information and command selections as with cursor control may be implemented via receiving touches on a touchscreen without a cursor.

[0061] Computer system 500 may include a user interface module for implementing a graphical user interface, which may be stored on a mass storage device as executable software code executed by the computing device(s). This and other modules may include, for example, components such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components and task components, processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables.

[0062] In general, the word "component," "engine," "system," "database," "data store," and the like, as used herein, may refer to logic embodied in hardware or firmware, or to a collection of software instructions that may have entry and exit points and be written in a programming language such as Java, C, or C++. A software component may be compiled and linked into an executable program, installed in a dynamic link library, or written in an interpreted programming language such as BASIC, Perl, or Python. It is understood that software components may be called by other components or by themselves, and / or may be called in response to detected events or interrupts. Software components configured to run on computing devices may be embodied on a computer-readable medium, such as a hard disk.a compact disc, digital video disc, flash drive, magnetic disk, or other tangible medium, or as a digital download (and may be originally stored in a compressed or installable format that requires installation, decompression, or decryption before execution). Such software code may be stored partially or entirely in a memory of the executing computing device so that it can be executed by the computing device. Software instructions may be embedded in firmware, such as an EPROM. In addition, the hardware components may consist of connected logic units such as gates and flip-flops and / or programmable units such as programmable gate arrays or processors.

[0063] Computer system 500 may implement the techniques described herein using custom hard-wired logic, one or more ASICs or FPGAs, firmware, and / or program logic that, in combination with the computer system, causes or programs computer system 500 to be a special-purpose machine. According to one embodiment, the techniques described herein are performed by computer system 500 in response to processor(s) 504 executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions contained in main memory 506. Such instructions may be read into main memory 506 from another storage medium, such as storage device 510. Execution of the instruction sequences contained in main memory 506 causes processor(s) 504 to perform the process steps described herein.In alternative embodiments, hard-wired circuits may be used instead of or in combination with software instructions.

[0064] The term "non-transitory media" and similar terms as used herein refer to any media that stores data and / or instructions that cause a machine to operate in a particular manner. Such non-transitory media may include non-volatile media and / or volatile media. Non-volatile media includes, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as storage device 510. Volatile media includes dynamic memory, such as main memory 506. Common forms of non-volatile media include, for example, floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, solid-state drives, magnetic tape or other magnetic data storage media, CD-ROMs, other optical data storage media, physical media with hole patterns, RAM, PROM and EPROM, FLASH EPROM, NVRAM, other memory chips or cartridges, and networked versions thereof.

[0065] Non-transitory media are distinct from transmission media but can be used in conjunction with them. Transmission media are involved in the transfer of information between non-transitory media. Examples of transmission media include coaxial cable, copper wire, and optical fibers, including the wires that comprise bus 502. Transmission media can also take the form of sound or light waves, such as those generated in radio and infrared data communications.

[0066] Computer system 500 also includes a communications interface 518 connected to bus 502. Communications interface 518 establishes a bidirectional data communications connection to one or more network connections connected to one or more local area networks. For example, communications interface 518 may be an Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) card, a cable modem, a satellite modem, or a modem for establishing a data communications connection to a corresponding type of telephone line. As another example, communications interface 518 may be a Local Area Network (LAN) card for establishing a data communications connection to a compatible LAN (or a WAN component for communicating with a WAN). Wireless connections may also be implemented.In each of these implementations, the communication interface 518 sends and receives electrical, electromagnetic, or optical signals that carry digital data streams representing various types of information.

[0067] A network connection typically enables data communication across one or more networks to other data devices. For example, a network connection may connect across a local area network to a host computer or data devices operated by an Internet service provider (ISP). The ISP, in turn, provides data communication services across the worldwide packet data communications network, now commonly referred to as the "Internet." Both the local area network and the Internet use electrical, electromagnetic, or optical signals that carry digital data streams. The signals across the various networks and the signals on the network connection and across the communications interface 518 that carry the digital data to and from the computer system 500 are examples of transmission media.

[0068] Computer system 500 can send messages and receive data, including program code, over the network(s), the network connection, and the communications interface 518. In the Internet example, a server could transmit requested code for an application program over the Internet, the ISP, the local network, and the communications interface 518.

[0069] The received code may be executed by processor 504 as soon as it is received and / or stored in storage device 510 or other non-volatile memory for later execution.

[0070] Each of the processes, methods, and algorithms described in the preceding sections may be embodied in code components and fully or partially automated by one or more computer systems or computer processors comprising computer hardware. The one or more computer systems or computer processors may also operate to support the performance of the corresponding operations in a cloud computing environment or as software as a service (SaaS). The processes and algorithms may be partially or fully implemented in application-specific circuitry. The various features and methods described above may be used independently or combined in various ways.Various combinations and subcombinations are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure, and certain method or process blocks may be omitted in some implementations. The methods and processes described herein are also not limited to any particular order, and the associated blocks or states may be performed in other suitable orders, in parallel, or otherwise. Blocks or states may be added to or removed from the disclosed examples. The execution of certain operations or processes may be distributed among computer systems or computer processors located not only in a single machine, but distributed across a number of machines.

[0071] As used herein, a circuit may be implemented using any form of hardware, software, or a combination thereof. For example, one or more processors, controllers, ASICs, PLAs, PALs, CPLDs, FPGAs, logic components, software routines, or other mechanisms may be implemented to form a circuit. In implementation, the various circuits described herein may be implemented as discrete circuits, or the described functions and features may be distributed, in part or in whole, among one or more circuits.Although various features or functional elements are individually described or claimed as separate circuits, these features and functions may be shared by one or more common circuits, and such description is not intended to assume or imply that separate circuits are required to implement these features or functions. If a circuit is implemented in whole or in part with software, that software may be implemented to operate with a computer or processing system capable of performing the functionality described with respect to it, such as computer system 500.

[0072] As used herein, the term "or" can be interpreted both inclusively and exclusively. Furthermore, descriptions of resources, acts, or structures in the singular should not be construed to exclude the plural. Conditional expressions such as "may," "could," "might," or "may" are generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include certain features, elements, and / or steps, while other embodiments do not, unless expressly stated otherwise or the context of use indicates otherwise.

[0073] Unless expressly stated otherwise, the terms and expressions used in this document, as well as variations thereof, are not to be interpreted as limiting but as open-ended. Adjectives such as "conventional," "traditional," "normal," "standard," "known," and terms of similar import should not be construed as limiting the subject matter described to a particular period of time or to a subject matter available at a particular time, but should be understood to include conventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that may be available or known now or at any time in the future.The presence of broader words and phrases such as “one or more,” “at least,” “but not limited to,” or similar phrases in some cases should not be construed as meaning that the narrower case is intended or required in the absence of such broader phrases.

Claims

[1] A non-transitory, machine-readable medium that stores instructions that, when executed, cause a processor to operate a network device, the instructions causing the processor to: operate a 6G front-end module that communicates with a first radio in a 6G mode or a first split 5G / 6G mode; Operating a 5G front-end module that communicates with a second radio in a 5G mode, the first split 5G / 6G mode, or a second split 5G / 6G mode; and Operation of a 2-5G dual-band front-end module communicating with a third radio to operate as a 2-5G / 802.11be front-end module, allowing the 2-5G dual-band front-end module to operate in a 2G mode, the second split 5G / 6G mode, or a scan radio mode. [2] The non-transitory machine-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to configure the 2-5G dual-band front-end module to switch to 2G mode. [3] System consisting of: a first radio communicating with a 6G front-end module connected to a first filter switch bank configured to enable a 6G high bandpass filter, a 6G wide bandpass filter, or a 6G narrow bandpass filter; a second radio communicating with a 5G front-end module connected to a second filter switch bank configured to enable a 6G low-pass filter, a first 5G low-pass filter, a 5G wideband filter, or a 5G narrowband filter; and a third radio communicating with a 2-5G dual-band front-end module connected to a third filter switch bank configured to enable a 6G full-band path, a 5G high-bandpass filter, or a second 5G low-bandpass filter. [4] The system of claim 3, wherein the 2-5G dual front-end module is also connected to a fourth filter switch bank configured to enable a 2G application. [5] The system of claim 3, wherein the 6G front-end module and the 5G front-end module each conform to an IEEE 802.11be standard. [6] The system of claim 3, wherein the 6G narrowband pass filter extends up to 320 MHz for a low 6G application. [7] The system of claim 3, wherein the 6G low-pass filter extends up to 500 MHz for a 6G low frequency application. [8] The system of claim 3, wherein the 2-5g dual-band front-end module is configured to use the 6G full-band path as a 6G scanning radio. [9] The system of claim 3, wherein the 6G front-end module is configured to operate in a 6G mode using the 6G high bandpass filter, the 6G wide bandpass filter, or the 6G narrow bandpass filter. [10] The system of claim 3, wherein the 5G front-end module is configured to operate in a first split 5G / 6G mode such that operation in 5G mode uses the first 5G low-pass filter, the 5G wide-pass filter, or the 5G narrow-pass filter, and operation in 6G mode uses the 6G low-pass filter for a low 6G application. [11] The system of claim 3, wherein the operation of the 2-5G dual-band front-end module is configured to operate as a 2-5G 802.11be front-end module, such that the 2-5G dual-band front-end module operates in a second split 5G / 6G mode in which the 5G mode operation uses the 5G high bandpass filter or the second 5G low bandpass filter, and the 6G mode operation uses the dedicated 5G receive path from the third radio to the 2-5G dual-band front-end module to receive using the 6G full band path. [12] System according to claim 3, wherein the 5G front-end module is configured to operate in a first split 5G / 6G mode such that the 6G low-pass filter is used for a low 6G application; and the 2-5G dual-band front-end module is adapted to operate as a 2-5 GHz 802.11be front-end module, such that the 2-5G dual-band front-end module is configured to operate in a second split 5G / 6G mode in which a dedicated 5G receive path from the third radio to the 2-5G dual-band front-end module is configured to receive over the 6G full-band path. [13] The system of claim 3, wherein the system is an access point. [14] A method of operating a network device, comprising: Operating a 6G front-end module communicating with a first radio in a 6G mode using a 6G high bandpass filter, a 6G wide bandpass filter, or a 6G narrow bandpass filter; Operating a 5G front-end module communicating with a second radio in a first split 5G / 6G mode, such that operation in 5G mode comprises using a first 5G low-pass filter, a 5G wide-pass filter, or a 5G narrow-pass filter, and operation in 6G mode comprises using a 6G low-pass filter for a low 6G application; and Operating a 2-5G dual-band front-end module communicating with a third radio to operate as a 2-5G 802.11be front-end module such that the 2-5G dual-band front-end module operates in a second split 5G / 6G mode, wherein operation in 5G mode includes using a 5G high bandpass filter or a second 5G low bandpass filter, and operation in 6G mode includes configuring a dedicated 5G receive path from the third radio to the 2-5G dual-band front-end module to receive using a 6G full bandpass filter. [15] The method of claim 14, further comprising configuring the 2-5G dual-band front-end module to switch to a 2G application. [16] The method of claim 14, wherein a narrow 6G application is an application up to 320 MHz. [17] The method of claim 14, wherein a low 6G application is an application up to 500 MHz. [18] The method of claim 14, further comprising using the 6G full-band path connected to the third radio as a 6G scanning radio. [19] The method of claim 14, wherein the 5G front-end module and the 6G front-end module each conform to an IEEE 802.11be standard. [20] The method of claim 14, wherein the network device is an access point.

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