Antenna switching circuit and electronic device comprising same

Abstract

In embodiments, provided is an electronic device. The electronic device may comprise: a processor; a radio frequency (RF) transceiver; a first filter for a first frequency band; a second filter for a second frequency band; a radio frequency front end (RFFE) circuit including an antenna switching circuit; a first antenna; a second antenna; and an impedance adjustment circuit electrically connected to a sounding reference signal (SRS) output port of the antenna switching circuit. The impedance adjustment circuit may provide a characteristic impedance of a specified magnitude at the SRS output port of the antenna switching circuit. The first antenna may be used to transmit or receive signals in the first frequency band via the antenna switching circuit in which the characteristic impedance of the specified magnitude is provided to the SRS output port. The second antenna may be used to transmit SRSs in the second frequency band via the antenna switching circuit and the impedance adjustment circuit coupled to the SRS output port of the antenna switching circuit.

Description

Antenna switching circuit and electronic device including the same

[0001] The following descriptions relate to an antenna switching circuit and an electronic device including the same.

[0002] An electronic device may include a radio frequency front end (RFFE) circuit for transmitting or receiving a signal. The RFFE circuit may include an antenna switching circuit (e.g., an antenna switching module) configured to change an antenna used to transmit a signal. For example, the electronic device may perform antenna switching based on the antenna switching circuit to transmit sounding reference signals (SRS).

[0003] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0004] In embodiments, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device may include a processor, a radio frequency (RF) transceiver, a first filter for a first frequency band, a second filter for a second frequency band, a radio frequency front end (RFFE) circuit including an antenna switching circuit, a first antenna, a second antenna, and an impedance adjustment circuit electrically connected to a sounding reference signal (SRS) output port of the antenna switching circuit. The impedance adjustment circuit may provide a characteristic impedance of a specified size at the SRS output port of the antenna switching circuit. The first antenna may be used to transmit or receive signals of the first frequency band through the antenna switching circuit, which provides the characteristic impedance of the specified size to the SRS output port. The second antenna may be used to transmit SRSs of the second frequency band through the antenna switching circuit and the impedance adjustment circuit connected to the SRS output port of the antenna switching circuit.

[0005] In embodiments, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device may include a processor, a radio frequency (RF) transceiver, a first filter for a first frequency band, a second filter for a second frequency band, a radio frequency front end (RFFE) circuit including an antenna switching circuit, a first antenna electrically connected to a first port of the antenna switching circuit, a second antenna electrically connected to a second port of the antenna switching circuit, and an impedance adjustment circuit connected to the second port. The impedance adjustment circuit may provide a characteristic impedance at a specified size at the second port of the antenna switching circuit. The processor may be configured to transmit a first sounding reference signal (SRS) of the second frequency band through the RF transceiver, the RFFE circuit, and the first antenna while the second filter for the second frequency band and the first port are electrically connected. The processor may be configured to control the antenna switching circuit to electrically connect the first filter for the first frequency band and the first port and to electrically connect the second filter for the second frequency band and the second port after the first SRS of the second frequency band is transmitted through the first antenna. The processor may be configured to transmit the second SRS of the second frequency band through the RF transceiver, the RFFE circuit, the impedance adjustment circuit, and the second antenna while the second filter for the second frequency band is electrically connected to the second port.

[0006] In embodiments, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device may include a processor, a radio frequency (RF) transceiver, a first filter for a first frequency band, a second filter for a second frequency band, a radio frequency front end (RFFE) circuit including an antenna switching circuit, a first antenna electrically connected to a first port of the antenna switching circuit, a second antenna electrically connected to a second port of the antenna switching circuit, and an impedance adjustment circuit connected to the second port. The impedance adjustment circuit may provide a characteristic impedance at a specified size at the second port of the antenna switching circuit.

[0007] While the second filter for the second frequency band and the first port are electrically connected, a first sounding reference signal (SRS) of the second frequency band may be transmitted through the RF transceiver, the RFFE circuit, and the first antenna. After the first SRS of the second frequency band is transmitted through the first antenna, the antenna switching circuit may be controlled, under the control of the processor or the RF transceiver, to electrically connect the first filter for the first frequency band and the first port and to electrically connect the second filter for the second frequency band and the second port. While the second filter for the second frequency band is electrically connected to the second port, a second SRS of the second frequency band may be transmitted through the RF transceiver, the RFFE circuit, the impedance adjustment circuit, and the second antenna.

[0008] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment.

[0009] Figures 2a to 2d are drawings for explaining the effects of switching to the SRS (sounding reference signal) port.

[0010] Figures 3a and 3b illustrate examples of electronic devices including antennas for SRS transmission.

[0011] Figure 4 shows an example of an attenuation circuit and an RFFE (radio frequency front end) circuit.

[0012] Figure 5 illustrates an example of an electronic device including a damping circuit.

[0013] Figure 6 shows an example of an RFFE circuit including an attenuation circuit.

[0014] Figure 7a shows an example of an SRS coupler and RFFE circuit.

[0015] Figure 7b shows an example of an SRS coupler.

[0016] Figure 7c shows an example of the S-parameters of the SRS coupler.

[0017] Figure 8 illustrates an example of an electronic device including an SRS coupler.

[0018] Figure 9 shows an example of an RFFE circuit including an SRS coupler.

[0019] Figures 10a and 10b illustrate examples of electronic devices in which an attenuation circuit is connected to an antenna port.

[0020] Figures 11a and 11b illustrate examples of electronic devices in which an SRS coupler is connected to an antenna port.

[0021] The terms used in this disclosure are used only to describe specific embodiments and may not be intended to limit the scope of other embodiments. The singular expression may include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art described in this disclosure. Terms defined in general dictionaries among the terms used in this disclosure may be interpreted as having the same or similar meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in this disclosure. In some cases, even if a term is defined in this disclosure, it cannot be interpreted to exclude embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] The various embodiments of the present disclosure described below illustrate a hardware-based approach as an example. However, since the various embodiments of the present disclosure include techniques utilizing both hardware and software, the various embodiments of the present disclosure do not exclude a software-based approach.

[0023] Terms referring to parts of electronic devices used in the following description (e.g., communication module, wireless communication module, substrate, PCB (printed circuit board), FPCB (flexible PCB), module, antenna, antenna element, circuit, processor, chip, component, device), terms referring to RF-related parts (FEM (front end module), PAM (power amplifier module), FEMid (FEM including duplexer), PAMid (power amplifier module including duplexer), LPAMid (low noise amplifier PAM including duplexer), RFFE (radio frequency front end)), RFIC (radio frequency integrated circuit)), terms referring to the shape of parts (e.g., structure, structure, support, contact, protrusion), terms referring to connections between structures (e.g., connection, contact, support, contact structure, conductive member, assembly), terms referring to circuits (e.g., PCB, FPCB, signal line, feeding line, data line, RF signal line, antenna line, RF path, RF module, RF circuit, Splitter, divider, coupler, combiner, etc. are examples for convenience of explanation. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the terms described below, and other terms having equivalent technical meanings may be used. In addition, terms such as '... part', '... machine', '... object', '... body', etc. used below may mean at least one shape structure or a unit that processes a function.

[0024] In addition, in the present disclosure, expressions such as "more than" or "less than" may be used to determine whether a specific condition is satisfied or fulfilled, but this is merely a description for expressing an example and does not exclude descriptions such as "more than" or "less than." A condition described as "more than" may be replaced with "more than," a condition described as "less than" may be replaced with "less than," and a condition described as "more than and less than" may be replaced with "more than and less than." In addition, hereinafter, "A" to "B" mean at least one of elements from A (including A) to B (including B). hereinafter, "C" and / or "D" mean at least one of "C" or "D," that is, including {"C", "D", "C" and "D"}.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to embodiments.

[0026] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0027] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0028] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0029] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., a processor (120) or a sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., a program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include a volatile memory (132) or a non-volatile memory (134).

[0030] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0031] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0032] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0033] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0034] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0035] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0036] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0037] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0038] A haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0039] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0040] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0041] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0042] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0043] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimizing terminal power and connecting multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB (decibel) or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each, or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0044] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0045] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0046] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0047] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0048] FIGS. 2A to 2D are diagrams for explaining the effects of switching to the SRS (sounding reference signal) port. The number of RF bands used in electronic devices (101) is increasing, and cases where multiple filters are activated simultaneously are becoming more frequent. The electronic device (101) may include an RFFE circuit to support multiple RF bands. The electronic device (101) may include an antenna switching circuit (e.g., an antenna switching module (ASM)) to transmit signals of multiple RF bands through a limited number of antennas. For example, the electronic device (101) may selectively electrically connect one of the filters of multiple RF bands to an antenna through the antenna switching circuit. However, depending on the switching conditions of the antenna switching circuit, discontinuities in amplitude and / or phase may occur.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 2A, the electronic device (101) may include an antenna switching circuit (210). The antenna switching circuit (210) may be connected to a filter (e.g., a duplexer) of a first frequency band (e.g., a long term evolution (LTE) frequency band) and a filter (e.g., a TDD transmit / receive filter) of a second frequency band (e.g., an NR frequency band). For example, the electronic device (101) may be configured with dual connectivity (e.g., EN(EUTRA(Evolved UMTS(Universal Mobile Telecommunication System) Terrestrial Radio Access Network))-NR)-DC)) connected to both a network of the first frequency band and a network of the second frequency band. The first antenna (231) may transmit a first signal (201) of the first frequency band through the antenna switching circuit (210). For example, the antenna switching circuit (210) can electrically connect the filter of the first frequency band to the antenna port (211) connected to the first antenna (231). The electronic device (101) can perform SRS antenna switching. The SRS antenna switching is a technology that enables transmission of SRSs to a base station through a plurality of antennas (e.g., the first antenna (231), the second antenna (232), the third antenna (233), and the fourth antenna (234)) mounted on the electronic device (101). The base station can estimate a downlink channel based on the received SRSs. The base station can perform precoding or beamforming on downlink data based on the estimated downlink channel. Through this, data throughput can be increased.

[0050] The electronic device (101) may electrically connect a filter of the second frequency band to the antenna port (211) or the SRS output port (212) in order to transmit SRS signals (e.g., the second signal (202)) in the second frequency band. For example, when the electronic device (101) intends to transmit the second signal (202) through the first antenna (231), the electronic device (101) may control the antenna switching circuit (210) so that the antenna port (211) connected to the first antenna (231) is connected to the filter of the second frequency band. For example, when the electronic device (101) intends to transmit the signal (202) through the second antenna (232), the third antenna (233), or the fourth antenna (234), the electronic device (101) may control the antenna switching circuit (210) so that the SRS output port (212) is connected to the filter of the second frequency band. The SRS output port (212) may be electrically connected to a second antenna (232), a third antenna (233), or a fourth antenna (234) through at least one switching circuit (not shown). From the perspective that the SRS output port (212) is connected to a path through which an SRS signal is transmitted, terms such as SRS port, SRS output port, SRS connection port, SRS transmission port, SRS path port, SRS output terminal, SRS transmission terminal, and / or terms having equivalent technical / functional meanings may be used.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 2B, while the electronic device (101) is connected to both the first frequency band and the second frequency band, the filter of the second frequency band is switched to another antenna port (212), which represents an impedance change in the first frequency band. The filter of the first frequency band is connected to the antenna port (211) through the antenna switching circuit (210), and the electronic device (101) can receive downlink data from a network node (e.g., an LTE base station) on the first frequency band. The Smith chart (240) represents an impedance change in the first frequency band, which occurs when the filter of the second frequency band is switched to another antenna port (212) while receiving the downlink data. For example, the first frequency band may include a middle band (DL: about 1800 MHz (megahertz) or more and less than about 2200 MHz, UL: about 1700 MHz or more and less than about 2000 MHz). As an example, the Smith chart (240) represents the impedance in band 66. The first pattern (241) represents the impedance in B66 when the filter of the second frequency band for SRS antenna switching is connected to the SRS output port (212), and the second pattern (242) represents the impedance in B66 when the filter of the second frequency band for SRS antenna switching is not connected to the SRS output port (212) (for example, the filter may be connected to an antenna port other than the antenna port (211) and the SRS output port (212). Referring to the first pattern (241) and the second pattern (242), it can be confirmed that the trajectory change of the impedance is different.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 2c, a graph (250) represents a phase by frequency. The horizontal axis of the graph (250) represents a frequency (unit: GHz (gigahertz), and the vertical axis of the graph (250) represents a phase (unit: degree)). A first line (251) represents a phase when a filter of a second frequency band for SRS antenna switching is connected to the SRS output port (212). A second line (252) represents a phase when a filter of a second frequency band for SRS antenna switching is not connected to the SRS output port (212) (for example, the filter may be connected to an antenna port other than the antenna port (211) and the SRS output port (212). For example, at a frequency of about 2.144 GHz, the first line (251) represents about 37 degrees, and the second line (252) represents about 29.8 degrees. A phase difference of about 7.2 degrees can be confirmed before and after connection between the filter of the second frequency band and the SRS output port (212).

[0053] Referring to FIG. 2d, a constellation (270) represents constellation points in a high-order modulation scheme (e.g., 256 QAM (quadrature amplitude modulation), MCS level 20 or higher). A first set of constellation points (271) represents constellation points when a filter of a second frequency band for SRS antenna switching is not connected to an SRS output port (212). A second set of constellation points (272) represents constellation points when a filter of a second frequency band for SRS antenna switching is connected to an SRS output port (212). Due to a phase difference of approximately 7.2 degrees, the constellation points are misaligned, and due to the misaligned constellation points, the communication quality (e.g., BLER (block error rate)) in the first frequency band may deteriorate. The deterioration of the communication quality may cause a decrease in throughput.

[0054] In order to resolve the amplitude mismatch and / or phase mismatch, a design change of the antenna switching circuit (210) may be considered. However, since the SRS output port (212) is selectively connected to the second antenna (232), the third antenna (233), or the fourth antenna (234) through one or more switching circuits, and a separate impedance matching circuit is configured for each path to each antenna, it is difficult to stably maintain the characteristic impedance (e.g., 50 ohms) at the SRS output port (212). Accordingly, as the order of the modulation scheme is higher (e.g., '8' of 256 QAM), it may be difficult to sufficiently guarantee the throughput due to the impedance mismatch due to the switching. In order to alleviate the above-described problem, in embodiments of the present disclosure, a technique is described for maintaining the characteristic impedance fixedly (or maintaining it within a certain range) by connecting an additional circuit to a port for NR SRS antenna switching (e.g., the SRS output port (212)).

[0055] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate examples of an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101)) including antennas for SRS transmission (e.g., a first antenna (231), a second antenna (232), a third antenna (233), or a fourth antenna (234)).

[0056] Referring to FIG. 3A, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (310), an RF transceiver (320) (e.g., RFIC), an RF front end (RFFE) circuit (330), and antennas (e.g., a first antenna (231), a second antenna (232), a third antenna (233), and a fourth antenna (234)). The electronic device (101) may include the processor (310). The processor (310) may include, for example, at least one of an application processor (AP) (e.g., the main processor (121) of FIG. 1)) or a communication processor (CP) (e.g., the auxiliary processor (123) of FIG. 1). For example, the processor (310) may include an AP and a CP. For example, the processor may include an AP. For example, the processor (310) may include a CP. The processor (310) can control the RF transceiver (320) via the control interface (311). For example, the processor (310) can generate a baseband signal. The processor (310) can control the RF transceiver (320) to process the generated baseband signal. The processor (310) can transmit a signal (313a) (e.g., analog data or digital data). The processor (310) can control the RF transceiver (320) to transmit the signal via the antenna (340). The processor (310) can receive a signal (313b) (e.g., analog data or digital data).

[0057] The processor (120; 310) of the present disclosure may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, the term "processor" as used herein, including in the claims, may include various processing circuits including at least one processor, one or more of which may be individually and / or collectively configured to perform the various functions(s) described in the present disclosure. As used herein, when "processor," "at least one processor," and "one or more processors" are described as being configured to perform various functions, these terms may include, for example, without limitation, situations where a single processor performs some of the recited functions, situations where other processor(s) perform other of the recited functions, situations where a single processor can perform all of the recited functions, and / or combinations of processors performing in a distributed manner. Additionally, instructions (or program commands) for various functions(s) in the present disclosure, when executed by a processor, may cause an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101)) to execute the various functions(s).

[0058] The electronic device (101) may include an RF transceiver (320). For example, the RF transceiver (320) may be implemented as a single chip (e.g., an RFIC chip) or as part of a single package. The RF transceiver (320) may provide an RF signal to an RFFE circuit (330). For example, the RF transceiver (320) may provide a first RF signal (321) of a first frequency band to the RFFE circuit (330). For example, the RF transceiver (320) may provide a second RF signal (322) of a second frequency band to the RFFE circuit (330). The RF transceiver (320) may include an analog to digital converter (ADC) for converting an analog signal into a digital signal. The RF transceiver (320) may include a mixer and an oscillator (e.g., a local oscillator (LO)) for down-conversion. The RF transceiver (320) may convert an RF signal received from an antenna (e.g., a first antenna (231), a second antenna (232), a third antenna (233), a fourth antenna (234)) into a baseband signal so that the RF signal can be processed by the processor (310). The RF transceiver (320) may include one or more transmit ports. The RF transceiver (320) may receive an RF signal from an RFFE circuit (330). The RF transceiver (320) may include a digital to analog converter (DAC) for converting a digital signal into an analog signal. The RF transceiver (320) may include a mixer and an oscillator for up-conversion. The RF transceiver (320) can convert a baseband signal generated by the processor (310) into an RF signal. The RF transceiver (320) can include one or more receiving ports.Although not shown in FIG. 3, the RF transceiver (320) can control at least a portion of the modulator or RFFE circuit (330) via a mobile industry processor interface (MIPI) interface.

[0059] The electronic device (101) may include an RFFE circuit (330). The RFFE circuit (330) may be configured to transmit a transmission signal from an RF transceiver (320) to an antenna. The RFFE circuit (330) may include a power amplifier (PA) and a filter (e.g., a duplexer (331), a TDD filter (332)) for a transmission path. The RFFE circuit (330) may include an antenna switching circuit (210). The antenna switching circuit (210) may be connected to a filter (e.g., a duplexer (331)) of the first frequency band and a filter (e.g., a TDD filter (332)) of the second frequency band. The antenna switching circuit (210) may electrically connect the duplexer (331), which is a filter of the first frequency band, to an antenna port (211) connected to a first antenna (231). The antenna switching circuit (210) can electrically connect the TDD filter (332), which is a filter of the second frequency band, to the antenna port (211) connected to the first antenna (231) or the SRS output port (212) for the second antenna (232), the third antenna (233), and the fourth antenna (234). The RF signal (e.g., the first RF signal (321), the second RF signal (322)) generated by the RF transceiver (320) can be radiated into the air through the antenna connected according to the antenna switching circuit (210) via the transmission path. Although not shown in FIG. 3A, the RFFE circuit (330) can transmit a reception signal from the antenna to the RF transceiver (320). For example, the RFFE circuit (330) may include components for a reception path in addition to components for a transmission path. The RFFE circuit (330) may include a low noise amplifier (LNA) for the receive path.

[0060] The electronic device (101) can perform SRS antenna switching in a second frequency band (e.g., N41 band, TDD approximately 2496 MHz or more and less than 2690 MHz). For example, the electronic device (101) can be configured to perform SRS antenna switching according to 1T4R. 1T4R means one TX (transmit) antenna and four RX (receive) antennas, and at least four SRS resources may be required for 1T4R. The electronic device (101) can be configured to perform SRS antenna switching according to 1T4R based on the configuration of a network (e.g., NR cell). Here, the SRS resource means the location of a time-frequency resource within a resource grid in which the SRS is transmitted. The electronic device (101) can transmit SRSs based on the SRS resources for 1T4R. For example, the electronic device (101) can transmit a first SRS through a first antenna (231), and then connect a TDD filter (332) to the SRS output port (212) through switching of the antenna switching circuit (210). The electronic device (101) can transmit a second SRS through a second antenna (232), a third SRS through a third antenna (233), and a fourth SRS through a fourth antenna (234). While the TDD filter (332) is connected to the SRS output port (212), the duplexer (331) can be connected to the antenna port (211). While the TDD filter (332) is connected to the SRS output port (212) to transmit the second SRS, the third SRS, and the fourth SRS, the electronic device (101) can receive downlink data on the first frequency band.

[0061] As described with reference to FIGS. 2A to 2D, in order to improve the throughput of reception of continuous downlink data, the electronic device (101) may include an impedance adjustment circuit (350) electrically connected to the SRS output port (212). The impedance adjustment circuit (350) may be configured to fix (including substantially fix, so as to be maintained within a certain range) an input impedance viewed outward from the SRS output port (212) of the antenna switching circuit (210) in terms of transmitting or receiving a signal of a first frequency band (e.g., LTE frequency band). Regardless of factors such as switching between the second antenna (232), the third antenna (233), or the fourth antenna (234) or the matching network design, if the input impedance applied to the SRS output port (212) of the antenna switching circuit (210) is fixed to a specific impedance (e.g., a characteristic impedance of about 50 ohms), the degree of amplitude mismatch and / or phase mismatch can be alleviated. For example, a phase difference within a certain range (e.g., less than about 2 degrees) can ensure sufficient throughput performance even in a high-order modulation scheme. The antenna switching circuit (210) can be connected to the first antenna (231) through the antenna port (211) and to the second antenna (232), the third antenna (233), and / or the fourth antenna (234) through the SRS output port (212). The SRS output port (212) of the antenna switching circuit (210) is connected to the impedance adjustment circuit (350), and the output signal (351) of the impedance adjustment circuit (350) can be transmitted to the second antenna (232), the third antenna (233), and / or the fourth antenna (234) through at least one switching circuit. For example, the output signal (351) can include the second SRS for the second antenna (232), the third SRS for the third antenna (233), or the fourth SRS for the fourth antenna (234).In a TDD frequency band (e.g., N41), the second SRS, the third SRS, and the fourth SRS may be temporally separated. According to one embodiment, the impedance adjustment circuit (350) may include an attenuation circuit. The attenuation circuit may be configured to reduce power by about 3 dB or less. For example, the attenuation circuit may include a plurality of resistors, and the plurality of resistors may be configured to reduce power through a 'T' or 'ð'-shaped arrangement. In addition to the attenuation circuit, the attenuation circuit may also be referred to as an attenuation circuit, an RF attenuator, a fixed attenuator, a voltage divider, an RF attenuation circuit, a pi-type attenuator, a pi-type attenuation circuit, an impedance fixing circuit, a characteristic impedance fixing circuit, a characteristic impedance maintaining circuit, a characteristic impedance attenuation circuit, an impedance stabilizing circuit, and / or terms having equivalent technical / functional meanings therefor. Additionally, according to one embodiment, the impedance adjustment circuit (350) may include a coupler. As a load having a characteristic impedance (e.g., about 50 ohms) is placed at a pass port of the coupler, an input impedance viewed from the SRS output port (212) may correspond to the characteristic impedance. The coupler may be referred to as an SRS coupler, a coupling circuit, a bidirectional coupler, a unidirectional coupler, a characteristic impedance fixing circuit, a characteristic impedance maintaining circuit, a characteristic impedance attenuation circuit, an impedance stabilizing circuit, and / or terms having equivalent technical / functional meanings therefor.

[0062] In FIG. 3A, components of an electronic device (101) including four SRS antennas for 1T4R or 2T4R antenna switching are illustrated. However, the impedance adjustment circuit (350) according to embodiments of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (101) may be configured to perform 1T2R antenna switching. The electronic device (101) may perform SRS antenna switching using two SRS antennas (e.g., a first antenna (231) and a second antenna (232)).

[0063] Referring to FIG. 3B, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (310), an RF transceiver (320), an RFFE circuit (330), and antennas (e.g., a first antenna (231), a second antenna (232)). The electronic device (101) may include an impedance adjustment circuit (350) electrically connected to an SRS output port (212). The antenna switching circuit (210) may be connected to the first antenna (231) through the antenna port (211) and to the second antenna (232) through the SRS output port (212). The SRS output port (212) of the antenna switching circuit (210) may be connected to the impedance adjustment circuit (350), and an output signal (351) of the impedance adjustment circuit (350) may be transmitted to the second antenna (232) through at least one switching circuit. For example, the output signal (351) may include a second SRS for the second antenna (232).

[0064] Figure 4 illustrates an example of an attenuation circuit and an RFFE (radio frequency front end) circuit (e.g., an RFFE circuit (330)). In Figure 4, an attenuation circuit (420) is described as an example of an impedance adjustment circuit (350). The same reference numbers or symbols may be used for the same description.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 4, the electronic device (101) may include an RFFE circuit (330). The RFFE circuit (330) may include a controller (405). The controller (405) may be configured to control components of the RFFE circuit (330) via a control interface (e.g., mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)) with a processor (310) and / or an RF transceiver (320).

[0066] The RFFE circuit (330) may include a power amplifier. For example, the RFFE circuit (330) may include a first PA (431) and a second PA (432). The first PA (431) may be used to amplify a signal of a first frequency band (e.g., a mid-band (MB) between 1 and 2.3 GHz). The signal amplified through the first PA (431) may be connected to a first duplexer (451) or a second duplexer (452) through a first transmission switch (441). For example, the first duplexer (451) may include a filter for transmitting a signal of the first frequency band. The first duplexer (451) may distinguish a transmission path and a reception path by frequency, and the first duplexer (451) may include a filter for the reception path. A signal passing through the above filter can be connected to a first LNA (461) through a receiving switch (460). A second duplexer (452) can distinguish a transmission path and a reception path by frequency, and the second duplexer (452) can include a filter for the reception path. A signal passing through the above filter can be connected to a second LNA (462) through a receiving switch (460). A second PA (432) can be used to amplify a signal of a second frequency band (e.g., HB (high-band) of 2.3 GHz or higher). A signal amplified through the second PA (432) can be connected to a TDD filter (453) through a second transmitting switch (442). A signal passing through the TDD filter (453) can be connected to a third LNA (463) through a receiving switch (460).

[0067] The RFFE circuit (330) may include an antenna switching circuit (210). The antenna switching circuit (210) may be configured to electrically connect ports for filters and antennas. The antenna switching circuit (210) may be connected to a plurality of filters. For example, the plurality of filters may include a first duplexer (451), a second duplexer (452), and a TDD filter (453). The antenna switching circuit (210) may be connected to a plurality of ports that are connected to antennas. The plurality of ports may include a first antenna port (211), a second antenna port (481), and an SRS output port (212). For example, the antenna switching circuit (210) may electrically connect the first duplexer (451) to the first antenna port (211). For example, the antenna switching circuit (210) can selectively electrically connect the first antenna port (211) or the SRS output port (212) to the TDD filter (453).

[0068] The RFFE circuit (330) may include a first coupler (471). The first coupler (471) may be used to feed back a portion of a transmission signal to be transmitted through a first antenna (231) connected to the RFFE circuit (330). The first coupler (471) may be connected to a first antenna port (211). For example, an input port of the first coupler (471) may be connected to the first antenna port (211), and a pass port of the first coupler (471) may be connected to a first port (401) of the RFFE circuit (330). The coupling port of the first coupler (471) may be connected to a coupling port (403) of the RFFE circuit (330), or may be connected to a feedback path (not shown) within the RFFE circuit (330). The RFFE circuit (330) may include a second coupler (472). The second coupler (472) may be used to feed back a portion of a transmission signal to be transmitted via a second antenna (482) connected to the RFFE circuit (330). The second coupler (472) may be connected to a second antenna port (481). For example, an input port of the second coupler (472) may be connected to the second antenna port (481), and a pass port of the second coupler (472) may be connected to a second port (402) of the RFFE circuit (330). The coupling port of the second coupler (472) may be connected to a feedback path (not shown) within the RFFE circuit (330).

[0069] The RFFE circuit (330) may include a plurality of ports for connection to external components. For example, the plurality of ports may include a first port (401), a second port (402), a coupling port (403), and an SRS output port (404). A first antenna (231) may be connected to the first port (401) of the RFFE circuit (330). A second antenna (482) may be connected to the second port (402) of the RFFE circuit (330). The coupling port (403) of the RFFE circuit (330) may correspond to the output of the coupling port of the first coupler (471) for the first antenna (231). For example, external wiring for a feedback path may be connected to the coupling port (403). An attenuation circuit (420) may be connected to the SRS output port (404) of the RFFE circuit (330) as part of the SRS path. The attenuation circuit (420) may be configured so that the input impedance facing the SRS output port (212) from the antenna switching circuit (210) is fixed to a constant value (e.g., characteristic impedance, about 50 ohms) (or maintained within a constant range). In SRS antenna switching, the attenuation circuit (420) may be connected to the first switching circuit (421) for transmission of the first SRS of the first antenna (231) and other SRSs (e.g., the second SRS of the second antenna (232), the third SRS of the third antenna (233), and the fourth SRS of the fourth antenna (234). Even if the impedance of the load (e.g., the load including the first switching circuit (421)) after the attenuation circuit (420) changes, the low reflection coefficient (e.g., S 11 ), the input impedance at the SRS output port (212) can be fixed to a constant value (e.g., characteristic impedance, about 50 ohms) (or maintained within a certain range). For example, the input impedance can be determined based on the following mathematical equation.

[0070]

[0071] Z inrepresents the input impedance, and Z s represents the load impedance. S 11 The closer this is to 0, the higher the input impedance Z in Z is designed to match the existing characteristic impedance (e.g., about 50 ohms). s It becomes very similar to this.

[0072] The smaller the return loss of the attenuation circuit (420), the less the input impedance is affected by frequency, thereby providing a stable characteristic impedance. For example, the attenuation circuit (420) may include resistors having values ​​configured to attenuate by approximately 3 dB based on a characteristic impedance of approximately 50 ohms.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the processor (310)) may apply an SRS offset to compensate for the reduced transmission power due to the attenuation circuit (420). For example, when transmitting an SRS different from the first SRS (e.g., the second SRS of the second antenna (232), the third SRS of the third antenna (233), and the fourth SRS of the fourth antenna (234), the SRS is transmitted to each antenna through the attenuation circuit (420), so that the electronic device (101) may set the power of the SRS signal input to the power amplifier (e.g., the second PA (432)) to be higher or control the power amplifier. Through the SRS offset, the transmission power of the SRS signal output from the SRS output port (404) of the RFFE circuit (330) may be increased. Due to the increased transmission power of the SRS signal, the power of the SRS signal passing through the attenuation circuit (420) and radiated through the antenna (e.g., the second antenna (232), the third antenna (233), the fourth antenna (234)) can be maintained at a level equivalent to the power of the SRS signal transmitted through the antenna without the attenuation circuit (420) before the SRS offset is applied.

[0074] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101)) including an attenuation circuit (e.g., attenuation circuit (420)). The same reference numbers or symbols may be used for the same description.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 5, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (310) and an RF transceiver (320). To support various frequency combinations, the electronic device (101) may include a plurality of RFFE circuits. The plurality of RFFE circuits may include a first RFFE circuit (501), a second RFFE circuit (502), a third RFFE circuit (503), and / or a fourth RFFE circuit (504). For example, the first RFFE circuit (501) may be a transmit / receive (TRX) module (e.g., LPAMid) for transmission processing and reception processing. The first RFFE circuit (501) may include the RFFE circuit (330) described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. The first RFFE circuit (501) can receive transmission signals (e.g., a first RF transmission signal (581) and a second RF transmission signal (582)) from the RF transceiver (320). For example, the first RF transmission signal (581) can be a mid-band signal, and the second RF transmission signal (582) can be a high-band signal. The first RFFE circuit (501) can transmit reception signals (e.g., a first reception signal (585a), a second reception signal (585b), and a third reception signal (585c)) to the RF transceiver (320). For example, the second RFFE circuit (502) can be a TRX module (e.g., LPAMid) for transmission processing and reception processing. The second RFFE circuit (502) can receive transmission signals (e.g., a third RF transmission signal (583) and a fourth RF transmission signal (584)) from the RF transceiver (320). For example, the third RF transmission signal (583) can be a mid-band signal, and the fourth RF transmission signal (584) can be a high-band signal. The second RFFE circuit (502) can transmit reception signals (e.g., a seventh reception signal (585g), an eighth reception signal (585h), and a ninth reception signal (585i)) to the RF transceiver (320).The second RFFE circuit (502) may be connected to an antenna (599). For example, the third RFFE circuit (503) may be an RX (receive) module for reception processing. The third RFFE circuit (503) may transmit reception signals (e.g., the fourth reception signal (585d), the fifth reception signal (585e), and the sixth reception signal (585f)) to the RF transceiver (320). For example, the fourth RFFE circuit (504) may be an RX module for reception processing. The fourth RFFE circuit (504) may transmit reception signals (e.g., the tenth reception signal (585j), the eleventh reception signal (585k), and the twelfth reception signal (585l)) to the RF transceiver (320).

[0076] The RF transceiver (320) can control each RFFE circuit via a control interface (e.g., MIPI). For example, the RF transceiver (320) can control the first RFFE circuit (501) via a first control signal (591). The RF transceiver (320) can control the second RFFE circuit (502) via a second control signal (594). The RF transceiver (320) can control the third RFFE circuit (503) via a third control signal (592). The RF transceiver (320) can control the fourth RFFE circuit (504) via a fourth control signal (595).

[0077] The electronic device (101) may be configured to perform SRS antenna switching. For example, the electronic device (101) may receive configurations for four SRS resources for 1T4R from a network node (e.g., a base station). The SRSs using the four SRS resources may include a first SRS, a second SRS, a third SRS, and a fourth SRS that are transmitted at different times. The SRS antenna switching technology may be used to estimate a downlink channel between antennas transmitting SRS signals in a TDD frequency band and a network node (e.g., a base station). Accordingly, the electronic device (101) may configure four antennas for SRS according to 1T4R. For example, the electronic device (101) may transmit the first SRS through the first antenna (231). The first antenna (231) may be connected to the first RFFE circuit (501). The electronic device (101) can transmit the first SRS through the second antenna (232). The second antenna (232) can be connected to the third RFFE circuit (503). The electronic device (101) can transmit the first SRS through the third antenna (233). The third antenna (233) can be connected to the fourth RFFE circuit (504). The electronic device (101) can transmit the first SRS through the fourth antenna (234). The electronic device (101) (e.g., the processor (310)) can use at least one switching circuit to transmit the first SRS, the second SRS, the third SRS, and the fourth SRS in different time resources. The electronic device (101) can include a first switching circuit (421) and a second switching circuit (521) for SRS antenna switching.

[0078] For example, when transmitting the first SRS, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) can control the antenna switching circuit (210) so that a filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) of the frequency band of the SRS antenna switching is electrically connected to an antenna port (e.g., antenna port (211)) connected to the first antenna (231).

[0079] For example, when transmitting a second SRS, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) may control the antenna switching circuit (210) so that a filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) of a frequency band of the SRS antenna switching is electrically connected to an SRS output port (e.g., SRS output port (212)). In addition, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) may control the first switching circuit (421) so that the attenuation circuit (420) is electrically connected to the first path (571). The first switching circuit (421) may be configured to selectively electrically connect the first path (571) or the second path (572) to the attenuation circuit (420). The second SRS may be transmitted to the second antenna (232) through the first path (571) and the antenna switching circuit (e.g., antenna switching module (ASM)) of the third RFFE circuit (503). The electronic device (101) may transmit the second SRS through the second antenna (232).

[0080] For example, when transmitting a third SRS, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) can control the antenna switching circuit (210) so that a filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) of a frequency band of the SRS antenna switching is electrically connected to an SRS output port (e.g., SRS output port (212)). While the filter is connected to the SRS output port, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) can control the first switching circuit (421) so that an attenuation circuit (420) is electrically connected to a second path (572). While the filter is connected to the SRS output port and the attenuation circuit (420) is connected to the second path (572), the electronic device (101) can control the ASM and the second switching circuit (521) of the second RFFE circuit (502) so that the second path (572) is connected to the third path (573). The second switching circuit (521) can be configured to electrically connect the third path (573) or the fourth path (574) selectively to the ASM of the second RFFE circuit (502). The third SRS can be transmitted to the third antenna (233) via the second path (571), the third path (573), and the ASM of the third RFFE circuit (503). The electronic device (101) can transmit the third SRS via the third antenna (233).

[0081] For example, when transmitting a fourth SRS, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) can control the antenna switching circuit (210) so that a filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) of a frequency band of the SRS antenna switching is electrically connected to an SRS output port (e.g., SRS output port (212)). While the filter is connected to the SRS output port, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) can control the first switching circuit (421) so that an attenuation circuit (420) is electrically connected to the second path (572). While the filter is connected to the SRS output port and the attenuation circuit (420) is connected to the second path (572), the electronic device (101) can control the ASM and the second switching circuit (521) of the second RFFE circuit (502) so that the second path (572) is connected to the fourth path (574). The fourth SRS can be transmitted to the fourth antenna (234) through the second path (571) and the fourth path (574). The electronic device (101) can transmit the fourth SRS through the fourth antenna (234).

[0082] In FIGS. 4 and 5, a circuit structure in which an attenuation circuit (420) is connected to the outside of an RFFE circuit (330) (or a first RFFE circuit (501)) is illustrated. When the attenuation circuit (420) is connected to the RFFE circuit (330) as a separate component from the RFFE circuit (330), the attenuation circuit (420) may be implemented on a board (e.g., a printed board assembly (PBA)) on which the processor (310) and the RF transceiver (320) of the electronic device (101) are arranged. Meanwhile, the arrangement of the attenuation circuit (420) is not limited to the example described above. As another example, the attenuation circuit (420) may be arranged inside an RFFE circuit including an antenna switching circuit (210). An example of an attenuation circuit (420) arranged inside an RFFE circuit is described through FIG. 6.

[0083] Figure 6 illustrates an example of an RFFE circuit (e.g., RFFE circuit (330)) including an attenuation circuit (e.g., attenuation circuit (420)). The same reference numbers or symbols may be used for the same description.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 6, the electronic device (101) may include an RFFE circuit (330). For the components of the RFFE circuit (330), the descriptions of FIG. 4 may be referred to. The RFFE circuit (330) may include an attenuation circuit (420). The attenuation circuit (420) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured such that the input impedance viewed from the SRS output port (212) of the antenna switching circuit (210) has a characteristic impedance of a specified size (e.g., 50 ohms) (e.g., fixed to about 50 ohms or maintained within a specific limit range). Accordingly, the attenuation circuit (420) may be configured to be connected to the SRS output port (212) within the RFFE circuit (330) and provide the characteristic impedance of the specified size. For example, the attenuation circuit (420) may be disposed between the SRS output port (212) of the antenna switching circuit (210) and the SRS output port (404) of the RFFE circuit (330). The SRS output port (404) may be connected to the first switching circuit (421) for transmission of the first SRS of the first antenna (231) and other SRSs (e.g., the second SRS of the second antenna (232), the third SRS of the third antenna (233), and the fourth SRS of the fourth antenna (234).

[0085] In FIGS. 4 to 6, an attenuation circuit (420) is illustrated as an example of an impedance adjustment circuit (350). In embodiments of the present disclosure, a coupler may be used instead of the attenuation circuit (420) as an example of an impedance adjustment circuit (350) for providing a characteristic impedance of a specified size. The coupler may be referred to as an SRS coupler in the present disclosure to distinguish it from a coupler for extracting and feedback of transmission power. Hereinafter, an exemplary circuit structure of an electronic device (101) including the SRS coupler is described through FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 8, and 9.

[0086] Figure 7a illustrates an example of an SRS coupler and an RFFE circuit (e.g., an RFFE circuit (330)). The same reference numbers or symbols may be used for the same description.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 7A, the electronic device (101) may include an RFFE circuit (330). For the components of the RFFE circuit (330), the descriptions of FIG. 4 may be referred to. The RFFE circuit (330) may include an antenna switching circuit (210). The antenna switching circuit (210) may be configured to electrically connect ports for a filter and an antenna. The antenna switching circuit (210) may be connected to a plurality of filters. For example, the plurality of filters may include a first duplexer (451), a second duplexer (452), and a TDD filter (453). The antenna switching circuit (210) may be connected to a plurality of ports that are connected to antennas. The plurality of ports may include a first antenna port (211), a second antenna port (481), and an SRS output port (212). For example, the antenna switching circuit (210) can electrically connect the first duplexer (451) to the first antenna port (211). For example, the antenna switching circuit (210) can selectively electrically connect the first antenna port (211) or the SRS output port (212) to the TDD filter (453).

[0088] The RFFE circuit (330) may include an SRS coupler (720). The SRS coupler (720) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured such that the input impedance viewed from the SRS output port (212) of the antenna switching circuit (210) has a characteristic impedance of a specified size (e.g., 50 ohms) (e.g., fixed to about 50 ohms or maintained within a specific limit range). The RFFE circuit (330) may include a plurality of ports for connecting to external components. For example, the plurality of ports may include a first port (401), a second port (402), a coupling port (403), and an SRS output port (404). The SRS coupler (720) may be connected to the SRS output port (404) of the RFFE circuit (330) as a part of an SRS path. The SRS coupler (720) may be configured so that the input impedance facing the SRS output port (212) in the antenna switching circuit (210) is fixed to a constant value (e.g., characteristic impedance, about 50 ohms) (or maintained within a certain range). The SRS coupler (720) may be connected to the first switching circuit (421) for transmitting the first SRS of the first antenna (231) and other SRSs (e.g., the second SRS of the second antenna (232), the third SRS of the third antenna (233), and the fourth SRS of the fourth antenna (234)) in the SRS antenna switching. Even if the impedance of the load (e.g., the load including the first switching circuit (421)) after the SRS coupler (720) changes, the low reflection coefficient (e.g., S 11 ), the input impedance at the SRS output port (212) can be fixed to a constant value (e.g., characteristic impedance, about 50 ohms) (or maintained within a certain range).

[0089] Figure 7b shows an example of an SRS coupler (e.g., SRS coupler (720)).

[0090] Referring to FIG. 7B, a coupler (e.g., a first coupler (471)) for extracting transmission power and an SRS coupler (720) for providing a characteristic impedance of a specified size are illustrated. The first coupler (471) may include an input port (781), a pass-through port (782), and a coupling port (783). A transmission signal is transmitted from the input port (781) to the pass-through port (782), and the transmission signal may be radiated to the outside through an antenna (e.g., the first antenna (231)) connected to the pass-through port (782). The first coupler (471) may provide a portion of the transmission signal to an RF transceiver (e.g., the RF transceiver (320)) through a feedback path connected to the coupling port (783).

[0091] The SRS coupler (720) may include an input port (786) and a coupling port (787). The SRS coupler (720) may include a load (788) having a specified size (e.g., characteristic impedance, about 50 ohms). As the SRS coupler (720) is electrically connected to the SRS output port (212), the input impedance viewed from the SRS output port (212) may be maintained at a value corresponding to the load itself. An SRS signal output from the SRS output port (212) may be coupled in the SRS coupler (720), and the coupled signal (hereinafter, referred to as a coupled SRS signal) may be output through the coupling port (787). The coupled SRS signal may be transmitted to the second antenna (232), the third antenna (233), or the fourth antenna (234) through the first switching circuit (421).

[0092] Fig. 7c shows an example of S-parameters of an SRS coupler (e.g., SRS coupler (720)).

[0093] Referring to Fig. 7c, the graph (790) represents the S-parameter of the SRS coupler (720). The horizontal axis of the graph (790) represents the frequency (unit: GHz), and the vertical axis of the graph (790) represents the S-parameter (e.g., the reflection coefficient (S 11 ), pass coefficient (S 21 )). For example, the SRS coupler (720) may be a 3 dB directional coupler. The first line (791) represents a reflection coefficient. For example, at a frequency of about 2.6 GHz, it can be confirmed that the reflection coefficient of the SRS coupler (720) is less than -20 dB. A low reflection coefficient can provide a characteristic impedance of a specified size. The second line (792) represents a pass coefficient of an input SRS signal. The third line (793) represents a pass coefficient of a coupled SRS signal. At a frequency of about 2.6 GHz, the second line (792) represents about -3.274 dB, and the third line (793) represents about -3.585 dB. It can be confirmed that the difference between the second line (792) and the third line (793) is about 3 dB.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) (e.g., the processor (310)) may apply an SRS offset to compensate for the reduced transmission power due to the SRS coupler (720). For example, when transmitting an SRS different from the first SRS (e.g., a second SRS of the second antenna (232), a third SRS of the third antenna (233), and a fourth SRS of the fourth antenna (234), the SRS may be delivered to each antenna through the coupling of the SRS coupler (720). The output of the SRS signal may be reduced due to the coupling. For example, when the SRS coupler (720) is a 3 dB coupler, the output of the SRS signal may be reduced by about 3 dB. To compensate for the reduced output, the electronic device (101) may increase the power of the SRS signal input to the power amplifier (e.g., the second PA (432)) or control the power amplifier. Through the above SRS offset, the transmission power of the SRS signal output from the SRS output port (404) of the RFFE circuit (330) can be increased. Due to the increased transmission power of the SRS signal, the power of the SRS signal passing through the SRS coupler (720) and radiated through the antennas (e.g., the second antenna (232), the third antenna (233), the fourth antenna (234)) can be maintained at a level equivalent to the power of the SRS signal transmitted through the antennas without the SRS coupler (720) before the SRS offset is applied.

[0095] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101)) including an SRS coupler (e.g., SRS coupler (720)). The same reference numbers or symbols may be used for the same description.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 8, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (310) and an RF transceiver (320). To support various frequency combinations, the electronic device (101) may include a plurality of RFFE circuits. The plurality of RFFE circuits may include a first RFFE circuit (501), a second RFFE circuit (502), a third RFFE circuit (503), and / or a fourth RFFE circuit (504). For a description of each module, reference may be made to the descriptions of FIGS. 4 and 5. For example, the first RFFE circuit (501) may be a transmit / receive (TRX) module (e.g., LPAMid) for transmission processing and reception processing. The first RFFE circuit (501) may include the RFFE circuit (330) described with reference to FIGS. 3, 4, and 7A. The second RFFE circuit (502) can receive transmission signals (e.g., the third RF transmission signal (583) and the fourth RF transmission signal (584)) from the RF transceiver (320). For example, the third RFFE circuit (503) can be an RX (receive) module for reception processing. The fourth RFFE circuit (504) can be an RX module for reception processing.

[0097] The electronic device (101) may be configured to perform SRS antenna switching. For example, the electronic device (101) may receive configurations for four SRS resources for 1T4R from a network node (e.g., a base station). The electronic device (101) may configure four antennas for SRS according to 1T4R. For example, the electronic device (101) may transmit a first SRS through a first antenna (231). The first antenna (231) may be connected to a first RFFE circuit (501). The electronic device (101) may transmit the first SRS through a second antenna (232). The second antenna (232) may be connected to a third RFFE circuit (503). The electronic device (101) may transmit the first SRS through the third antenna (233). The third antenna (233) may be connected to the fourth RFFE circuit (504). The electronic device (101) may transmit the first SRS through the fourth antenna (234). The electronic device (101) (e.g., the processor (310)) may utilize at least one switching circuit to transmit the first SRS, the second SRS, the third SRS, and the fourth SRS in different time resources. The electronic device (101) may include a first switching circuit (421) and a second switching circuit (521) for SRS antenna switching.

[0098] For example, when transmitting the first SRS, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) can control the antenna switching circuit (210) so that a filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) of the frequency band of the SRS antenna switching is electrically connected to an antenna port (e.g., antenna port (211)) connected to the first antenna (231).

[0099] For example, when transmitting a second SRS, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) may control the antenna switching circuit (210) so that a filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) of a frequency band of the SRS antenna switching is electrically connected to an SRS output port (e.g., SRS output port (212)). In addition, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) may control the first switching circuit (421) so that the coupling port (787) of the SRS coupler (720) is electrically connected to the first path (571). The first switching circuit (421) may be configured to selectively electrically connect the first path (571) or the second path (572) to the coupling port (787) of the SRS coupler (720). The second SRS may be transmitted to the second antenna (232) through the first path (571) and the antenna switching circuit (e.g., antenna switching module (ASM)) of the third RFFE circuit (503). The electronic device (101) may transmit the second SRS through the second antenna (232).

[0100] For example, when transmitting a third SRS, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) can control the antenna switching circuit (210) so that a filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) of a frequency band of the SRS antenna switching is electrically connected to an SRS output port (e.g., SRS output port (212)). While the filter is connected to the SRS output port, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) can control the first switching circuit (421) so that a coupling port (787) of an SRS coupler (720) is electrically connected to a second path (572). While the filter is connected to the SRS output port and the coupling port (787) of the SRS coupler (720) is connected to the second path (572), the electronic device (101) can control the ASM of the second RFFE circuit (502) and the second switching circuit (521) so that the second path (572) is connected to the third path (573). The second switching circuit (521) can be configured to electrically connect the third path (573) or the fourth path (574) selectively to the ASM of the second RFFE circuit (502). The third SRS can be transmitted to the third antenna (233) via the second path (571), the third path (573), and the ASM of the RFFE circuit (503). The electronic device (101) can transmit the third SRS via the third antenna (233).

[0101] For example, when transmitting a fourth SRS, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) can control the antenna switching circuit (210) so that a filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) of a frequency band of the SRS antenna switching is electrically connected to an SRS output port (e.g., SRS output port (212)). While the filter is connected to the SRS output port, the electronic device (101) (e.g., processor (310)) can control the first switching circuit (421) so that a coupling port (787) of an SRS coupler (720) is electrically connected to a second path (572). While the filter is connected to the SRS output port and the coupling port (787) of the SRS coupler (720) is connected to the second path (572), the electronic device (101) can control the ASM and the second switching circuit (521) of the second RFFE circuit (502) so that the second path (572) is connected to the fourth path (574). The fourth SRS can be transmitted to the fourth antenna (234) through the second path (571) and the fourth path (574). The electronic device (101) can transmit the fourth SRS through the fourth antenna (234).

[0102] In FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, and 8, a circuit structure in which an SRS coupler (720) is connected to the outside of an RFFE circuit (330) (or a first RFFE circuit (501)) is illustrated. When the SRS coupler (720) is connected to the RFFE circuit (330) as a separate component from the RFFE circuit (330), the SRS coupler (720) may be placed on a board (e.g., PBA) on which the processor (310) and the RF transceiver (320) of the electronic device (101) are placed. Meanwhile, the placement of the SRS coupler (720) is not limited to the above-described example. As another example, the SRS coupler (720) may be placed inside an RFFE circuit including an antenna switching circuit (210). An example of an SRS coupler (720) placed inside an RFFE circuit is described through FIG. 9.

[0103] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of an RFFE circuit (e.g., RFFE circuit (330)) including an SRS coupler (e.g., SRS coupler (720)). The same reference numbers or symbols may be used for the same description.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 9, the electronic device (101) may include an RFFE circuit (330). For the components of the RFFE circuit (330), the descriptions of FIG. 4 may be referred to. The RFFE circuit (330) may include an SRS coupler (720). The SRS coupler (720) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured such that the input impedance viewed from the SRS output port (212) of the antenna switching circuit (210) has a characteristic impedance of a specified size (e.g., 50 ohms) (e.g., fixed to about 50 ohms or maintained within a specific limit range). For example, the load (788) of the SRS coupler (720) may be matched to have a size corresponding to the characteristic impedance. The SRS coupler (720) may be configured to be connected to the SRS output port (212) within the RFFE circuit (330) and provide the characteristic impedance of the specified size. For example, the SRS coupler (720) may be disposed between the SRS output port (212) of the antenna switching circuit (210) and the SRS output port (404) of the RFFE circuit (330). The input port (786) of the SRS coupler (720) may be connected to the SRS output port (212) of the antenna switching circuit (210), and the coupling port (787) of the SRS coupler (720) may be connected to the SRS output port (404) of the RFFE circuit (330). The SRS output port (404) may be connected to the first switching circuit (421) for transmission of the first SRS of the first antenna (231) and other SRSs (e.g., the second SRS of the second antenna (232), the third SRS of the third antenna (233), and the fourth SRS of the fourth antenna (234).

[0105] The RFFE circuit (330) described through FIGS. 4 to 9 may include two antenna ports (e.g., a first port (401) and a second port (402)) and an SRS output port (404). Depending on how the RFFE circuit is designed, the RFFE circuit may not include a separate SRS output port (404). The RFFE circuit may include a first port (401) and a second port (402). The second port (402) for connection with the second antenna (482) may be used as an SRS output port. Hereinafter, in FIGS. 10A, 10B, 11A, and 11B, instead of an RFFE circuit having a separate SRS output port, an example in which the second port (402) is used as the SRS output port of the present disclosure is described.

[0106] Figures 10a and 10b illustrate examples of an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101)) in which an attenuation circuit (e.g., attenuation circuit (420)) is connected to an antenna port (e.g., second antenna port (482)). The same reference numbers or symbols may be used for the same description.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 10A, the electronic device (101) may include an RFFE circuit (330). For the components of the RFFE circuit (330), the descriptions of FIG. 4 may be referred to. The RFFE circuit (330) may include an antenna switching circuit (210). The antenna switching circuit (210) may be configured to electrically connect ports for a filter and an antenna. The antenna switching circuit (210) may be connected to a plurality of filters.

[0108] The antenna switching circuit (210) may be connected to a plurality of ports connected to antennas. The plurality of ports may include a first antenna port (211) and a second antenna port (481). For example, the antenna switching circuit (210) may electrically connect the first duplexer (451) to the first antenna port (211). For example, the antenna switching circuit (210) may selectively electrically connect the first antenna port (211) or the second antenna port (481) to a TDD filter (453).

[0109] The RFFE circuit (330) may include a first coupler (471). The first coupler (471) may be used to feed back a portion of a transmission signal to be transmitted through a first antenna (231) connected to the RFFE circuit (330). The first coupler (471) may be connected to a first antenna port (211). For example, an input port of the first coupler (471) may be connected to the first antenna port (211), and a pass port of the first coupler (471) may be connected to a first port (401) of the RFFE circuit (330). The RFFE circuit (330) may include a second coupler (472). For example, the input port of the second coupler (472) may be connected to the second antenna port (481), and the pass port of the second coupler (472) may be connected to the second port (402) of the RFFE circuit (330). The RFFE circuit (330) includes the second coupler (472), but the second coupler (472) may be connected to the attenuation circuit (420) instead of being directly connected to a separate transmitting antenna.

[0110] The second port (402) of the RFFE circuit (330) may be connected to an attenuation circuit (420). The attenuation circuit (420) may be configured so that the input impedance facing the second antenna port (481) from the antenna switching circuit (210) is fixed to a constant value (e.g., characteristic impedance, about 50 ohms) (or maintained within a constant range). In SRS antenna switching, the attenuation circuit (420) may be connected to a first switching circuit (421) for transmission of a first SRS of the first antenna (231) and another SRS (e.g., a second SRS of the second antenna (232), a third SRS of the third antenna (233), and a fourth SRS of the fourth antenna (234).

[0111] Referring to FIG. 10B, the attenuation circuit (420) may be disposed within the RFFE circuit (330). The RFFE circuit (330) may include the attenuation circuit (420). The attenuation circuit (420) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured such that the input impedance viewed from the second antenna port (481) of the antenna switching circuit (210) has a characteristic impedance of a specified size (e.g., 50 ohms) (e.g., fixed to about 50 ohms or maintained within a specific limited range). Accordingly, the attenuation circuit (420) may be configured to be connected to the second antenna port (481) within the RFFE circuit (330) to provide the characteristic impedance of the specified size. For example, the attenuation circuit (420) may be disposed between the second antenna port (481) of the antenna switching circuit (210) and the second port (402) of the RFFE circuit (330). The second port (402) can be connected to a first switching circuit (421) for transmission of the first SRS of the first antenna (231) and other SRSs (e.g., the second SRS of the second antenna (232), the third SRS of the third antenna (233), and the fourth SRS of the fourth antenna (234)).

[0112] Figures 11a and 11b illustrate examples of an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (101)) in which an SRS coupler (e.g., SRS coupler (720)) is connected to an antenna port (e.g., second antenna port (481)). The same reference numbers or symbols may be used for the same description.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 11A, the electronic device (101) may include an RFFE circuit (330). For the components of the RFFE circuit (330), the descriptions of FIG. 4 may be referred to. The RFFE circuit (330) may include an antenna switching circuit (210). The antenna switching circuit (210) may be configured to electrically connect ports for filters and antennas. The antenna switching circuit (210) may be connected to a plurality of filters. The antenna switching circuit (210) may be connected to a plurality of ports that are connected to antennas. The plurality of ports may include a first antenna port (211) and a second antenna port (481). For example, the antenna switching circuit (210) may electrically connect a first duplexer (451) with the first antenna port (211). For example, the antenna switching circuit (210) can selectively electrically connect the first antenna port (211) or the second antenna port (481) to the TDD filter (453).

[0114] The RFFE circuit (330) may include a first coupler (471). The first coupler (471) may be used to feed back a portion of a transmission signal to be transmitted through a first antenna (231) connected to the RFFE circuit (330). The first coupler (471) may be connected to a first antenna port (211). For example, an input port of the first coupler (471) may be connected to the first antenna port (211), and a pass port of the first coupler (471) may be connected to a first port (401) of the RFFE circuit (330). The RFFE circuit (330) may include a second coupler (472). For example, the input port of the second coupler (472) may be connected to the second antenna port (481), and the pass port of the second coupler (472) may be connected to the second port (402) of the RFFE circuit (330).

[0115] The second coupler (472) may be connected to the SRS coupler (720) via the second port (402). The second port (402) of the RFFE circuit (330) may be connected to the input port (786) of the SRS coupler (720). The SRS coupler (720) may be configured such that the input impedance facing the second antenna port (481) from the antenna switching circuit (210) is fixed to a constant value (e.g., characteristic impedance, about 50 ohms) (or maintained within a certain range). For example, the load (788) of the SRS coupler (720) may be configured to have about 50 ohms. The coupling port (787) of the SRS coupler (720) can be connected to the first switching circuit (421) for transmission of the first SRS of the first antenna (231) and another SRS (e.g., the second SRS of the second antenna (232), the third SRS of the third antenna (233), and the fourth SRS of the fourth antenna (234)) in SRS antenna switching.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 11B, the SRS coupler (720) may be disposed within the RFFE circuit (330). The RFFE circuit (330) may include the SRS coupler (720). The SRS coupler (720) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured such that the input impedance viewed from the second antenna port (481) of the antenna switching circuit (210) has a characteristic impedance of a specified size (e.g., 50 ohms) (e.g., fixed to about 50 ohms or maintained within a specific limited range). Accordingly, within the RFFE circuit (330), the input port of the SRS coupler (720) may be connected to the second antenna port (481). Due to the load (788) connected to the second antenna port (481), the size of the input impedance viewed from the antenna switching circuit (210) toward the second antenna port (481) can be maintained at the size of the load (788) (e.g., 50 ohms). For example, the SRS coupler (720) can be placed between the second antenna port (481) of the antenna switching circuit (210) and the second port (402) of the RFFE circuit (330). The second port (402) can be connected to the first switching circuit (421) for transmission of the first SRS of the first antenna (231) and other SRSs (e.g., the second SRS of the second antenna (232), the third SRS of the third antenna (233), and the fourth SRS of the fourth antenna (234).

[0117] In embodiments, an electronic device (101) is provided. The electronic device (101) may include a processor (310), a radio frequency (RF) transceiver (320), a first filter for a first frequency band (e.g., a duplexer (331), a first duplexer (451)), a second filter for a second frequency band (e.g., a TDD filter (332), a TDD filter (453)), an RFFE (radio frequency front end) circuit (330) including an antenna switching circuit (210), a first antenna (231), a second antenna (232; 233; 234), and an impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) electrically connected to a sounding reference signal (SRS) output port (212; 481) of the antenna switching circuit (210). The impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) can provide a characteristic impedance of a specified size to the SRS output port (212; 481) of the antenna switching circuit (210). The first antenna (231) can be used to transmit or receive signals of the first frequency band through the antenna switching circuit (210) in which the characteristic impedance of the specified size is provided to the SRS output port (212; 481). The second antenna (232; 233; 234) can be used to transmit SRSs of the second frequency band through the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) connected to the antenna switching circuit (210) and the SRS output port (212; 481) of the antenna switching circuit (210).

[0118] According to one embodiment, the processor (310) may be configured to transmit a first SRS of the second frequency band through the RF transceiver (320), the RFFE circuit (330), and the first antenna (231) while the second filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) for the second frequency band and the first port of the antenna switching circuit (210) are electrically connected. The processor (310) may be configured to control the antenna switching circuit (210) to electrically connect the first filter (e.g., duplexer (331), first duplexer (451)) for the first frequency band and the first port after the first SRS of the second frequency band is transmitted through the first antenna (231), and to electrically connect the second filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) for the second frequency band and the SRS output port (212; 481) of the antenna switching circuit (210). The processor (310) may be configured to transmit a second SRS of the second frequency band through the RF transceiver (320), the RFFE circuit (330), the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720), and the second antenna (232; 233; 234) while the second filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) for the second frequency band is electrically connected to the SRS output port (212; 481).

[0119] According to one embodiment, while the second filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) for the second frequency band and the first port of the antenna switching circuit are electrically connected, the first SRS of the second frequency band may be transmitted through the RF transceiver (320), the RFFE circuit (330), and the first antenna (231). After the first SRS of the second frequency band is transmitted through the first antenna (231), the antenna switching circuit (210) may be controlled to electrically connect the first filter for the first frequency band and the first port and to electrically connect the second filter for the second frequency band and the SRS output port of the antenna switching circuit (210). While the second filter for the second frequency band is electrically connected to the SRS output port, the second SRS of the second frequency band can be transmitted through the RF transceiver (320), the RFFE circuit (330), the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720), and the second antenna (232).

[0120] According to one embodiment, the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) may include an attenuation circuit (420) comprising at least one passive element. The at least one passive element may include resistors having values ​​configured such that the characteristic impedance has the specified magnitude.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the RFFE circuit (330) may include a front end module (e.g., LPAMid (Low noise amplifier PAM including duplexer) of FIG. 4) including the first filter (e.g., duplexer (331), first duplexer (451)), the second filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)), and the antenna switching circuit (210). A first port (e.g., first port (401)) of the front end module may be electrically connected to the first antenna (231). A second port (e.g., SRS output port (404)) of the front end module may be connected to the attenuation circuit (420). The attenuation circuit (420) and at least one switching circuit may be electrically connected to the second antenna (232; 233; 234). The above attenuation circuit (420) can be placed on a PBA (printed board assembly) of the electronic device (101).

[0122] According to one embodiment, the RFFE circuit (330) may include a front end module (e.g., LPAMid (Low noise amplifier PAM including duplexer) of FIG. 6) including the first filter (e.g., duplexer (331), first duplexer (451)), the second filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)), and the antenna switching circuit (210). The attenuation circuit (420) may be disposed inside the front end module. A first port (e.g., first port (401)) of the front end module may be electrically connected to the first antenna (231). A second port (e.g., SRS output port (404)) of the front end module may be electrically connected to the second antenna (232; 233; 234). Within the front end module, the attenuation circuit (420) may be placed between the antenna switching circuit (210) and the second port of the front end module.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) may include an SRS coupler (720). The SRS coupler (720) may include an input port, a through port, and a coupling port. The input port may be configured to receive signals of the second frequency band. The through port may be connected to an impedance load having the specified size. The coupling port may be configured to output SRSs coupled based on signals of the second frequency band.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the RFFE circuit (330) may include a front end module (e.g., a low noise amplifier PAM including duplexer (LPAMid) of FIG. 7A) including the first filter (e.g., a duplexer (331), a first duplexer (451)), the second filter (e.g., a TDD filter (332), a TDD filter (453)), and the antenna switching circuit (210). A first port (e.g., a first port (401)) of the front end module may be electrically connected to the first antenna (231). A second port (e.g., an SRS output port (404)) of the front end module may be connected to the input port of the SRS coupler (720). The second antenna (232; 233; 234) may be electrically connected through the SRS coupler (720) and at least one switching circuit. The above SRS coupler (720) can be placed on a PBA (printed board assembly) of the electronic device (101).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the RFFE circuit (330) may include a front end module (e.g., a low noise amplifier PAM including duplexer (LPAMid) of FIG. 9) including the first filter (e.g., a duplexer (331), a first duplexer (451)), the second filter (e.g., a TDD filter (332), a TDD filter (453)), and the antenna switching circuit (210). The SRS coupler (720) may be disposed inside the front end module. A first port (e.g., a first port (401)) of the front end module may be electrically connected to the first antenna (231). A second port (e.g., an SRS output port (404)) of the front end module may be electrically connected to the second antenna (232; 233; 234). The input port of the SRS coupler (720) within the front end module may be connected to the antenna switching circuit (210). The coupling port of the SRS coupler (720) within the front end module may be connected to the second port of the front end module.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a coupler disposed between the antenna switching circuit (210) and the first antenna (231). The coupler may include an input port, a through port, and a coupling port. The input port may be configured to receive the first SRS of the second frequency band. The through port may be configured to output the first SRS. The coupling port may be configured to output a signal coupled based on the first SRS.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the processor (310) may be configured to receive signals of the first frequency band through the first antenna (231) while the second filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) for the second frequency band is electrically connected to the SRS output port (212; 481) through the antenna switching circuit (210).

[0128] According to one embodiment, while the second filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) for the second frequency band is electrically connected to the SRS output port (212; 481) through the antenna switching circuit (210), signals of the first frequency band can be received through the first antenna (231).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the first frequency band may be a band for long-term evolution (LTE) signals. The second frequency band may be a time division duplex (TDD) band for new radio (NR) signals. The electronic device (101) may be configured with EN (EUTRA (Evolved UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunication System) Terrestrial Radio Access Network))-NR)-DC (dual connectivity) using the first frequency band and the second frequency band.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a third antenna (233) and a fourth antenna (234). The processor (310) may be configured to perform SRS antenna switching for the second frequency band. The first antenna (231), the second antennas (232; 233; 234), the third antenna (233), and the fourth antenna (234) may be used for 1T4R (one transmit four receive) or 2T4R (two transmit four receive) of the SRS antenna switching.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a third antenna (233) and a fourth antenna (234). The first antenna (231), the second antennas (232; 233; 234), the third antenna (233), and the fourth antenna (234) may be used for 1T4R (one transmit four receive) or 2T4R (two transmit four receive) SRS antenna switching for the second frequency band.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a second RFFE circuit, a third RFFE circuit for the second antenna (232; 233; 234), a fourth RFFE circuit for the third antenna (233), a first switching circuit (421), and a second switching circuit (521). The impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) may be disposed between the antenna switching circuit (210) and the first switching circuit (421). The first switching circuit (421) may be configured to selectively connect the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) to either the second RFFE circuit or the third RFFE circuit. The second switching circuit (521) may be configured to selectively connect the output of the second RFFE circuit to one of the fourth RFFE circuit or the fourth antenna (234).

[0133] According to one embodiment, the processor (310) may be configured to transmit the first SRS for the SRS antenna switching through the first antenna (231). In addition, the processor (310) may be configured to control the first switching circuit (421) so that the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) and the third RFFE circuit are connected to transmit the second SRS through the second antenna (232; 233; 234). In addition, the processor (310) may be configured to control the first switching circuit (421) so that the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) and the second RFFE circuit are connected to transmit the third SRS through the third antenna (233). The processor (310) may be configured to control the second switching circuit (521) so that the output of the second RFFE circuit and the fourth RFFE circuit are connected to transmit the third SRS through the third antenna (233). In addition, the processor (310) may be configured to control the first switching circuit (421) so that the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) and the second RFFE circuit are connected to transmit the fourth SRS through the fourth antenna (234). The processor (310) may be configured to control the second switching circuit (521) so that the output of the second RFFE circuit and the fourth antenna (234) are connected to transmit the fourth SRS through the fourth antenna (234).

[0134] According to one embodiment, the first SRS for the SRS antenna switching may be transmitted through the first antenna (231). In addition, the first switching circuit (421) may be controlled to connect the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) and the third RFFE circuit to transmit the second SRS through the second antenna (232; 233; 234). In addition, the first switching circuit (421) may be controlled to connect the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) and the second RFFE circuit to transmit the third SRS through the third antenna (233), and the second switching circuit (521) may be controlled to connect the output of the second RFFE circuit and the fourth RFFE circuit to transmit the third SRS through the third antenna (233). In addition, in order to transmit the fourth SRS through the fourth antenna (234), the first switching circuit (421) may be controlled so that the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) and the second RFFE circuit are connected. In order to transmit the fourth SRS through the fourth antenna (234), the second switching circuit (521) may be controlled so that the output of the second RFFE circuit and the fourth antenna (234) are connected.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the processor (310) may be configured to determine a transmission power based on an SRS offset. The processor (310) may be configured to transmit the SRS of the second frequency band through the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) and the second antenna (232; 233; 234) based on the transmission power.

[0136] According to one embodiment, the SRS of the second frequency band may be transmitted through the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) and the second antenna (232; 233; 234). The transmission power of the SRS may be determined based on an SRS offset.

[0137] In embodiments, an electronic device (101) is provided. The electronic device (101) may include a processor (310), an RF (radio frequency) transceiver (320), a first filter for a first frequency band (e.g., a duplexer (331), a first duplexer (451)), a second filter for a second frequency band (e.g., a TDD filter (332), a TDD filter (453)), an RFFE (radio frequency front end) circuit including an antenna switching circuit (210), a first antenna (231) electrically connected to a first port of the antenna switching circuit (210), a second antenna (232; 233; 234) electrically connected to a second port of the antenna switching circuit (210), and an impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) connected to the second port. The impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) may provide a characteristic impedance with a specified size at the second port of the antenna switching circuit (210). The processor (310) may be configured to transmit a first sounding reference signal (SRS) of the second frequency band through the RF transceiver (320), the RFFE circuit (330), and the first antenna (231) while the second filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) for the second frequency band and the first port are electrically connected. The processor (310) may be configured to control the antenna switching circuit (210) to electrically connect the first filter (e.g., duplexer (331), first duplexer (451)) for the first frequency band with the first port after the first SRS of the second frequency band is transmitted through the first antenna (231) and to electrically connect the second filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) for the second frequency band with the second port.The processor (310) may be configured to transmit a second SRS of the second frequency band through the RF transceiver (320), the RFFE circuit (330), the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720), and the second antenna (232; 233; 234) while the second filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) for the second frequency band is electrically connected to the second port.

[0138] According to one embodiment, the processor (310) may be configured to receive signals of the first frequency band through the first antenna (231) while the second filter (e.g., TDD filter (332), TDD filter (453)) for the second frequency band is electrically connected to the second port through the antenna switching circuit (210). The first frequency band may be a band for long-term evolution (LTE) signals. The second frequency band may be a time division duplex (TDD) band for new radio (NR) signals. The electronic device (101) may be configured with EN (EUTRA (Evolved UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunication System) Terrestrial Radio Access Network))-NR)-DC (dual connectivity) using the first frequency band and the second frequency band.

[0139] According to one embodiment, the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) may include an attenuation circuit (420) comprising at least one passive element. The at least one passive element may include resistors having values ​​configured such that the characteristic impedance has the specified magnitude.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the impedance adjustment circuit (350; 420; 720) may include an SRS coupler (720). The SRS coupler (720) may include an input port, a through port, and a coupling port. The input port may be configured to receive signals of the second frequency band. The through port may be connected to an impedance load having the specified size. The coupling port may be configured to output SRSs coupled based on signals of the second frequency band.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a third antenna (233) and a fourth antenna (234). The processor (310) may be configured to perform SRS antenna switching for the second frequency band. The first antenna (231), the second antennas (232; 233; 234), the third antenna (233), and the fourth antenna (234) may be used for 1T4R (one transmit four receive) or 2T4R (two transmit four receive) of the SRS antenna switching.

[0142] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0143] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0144] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0145] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store (e.g., Play Store) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0147] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In electronic devices, processor; RF(radio frequency) transceiver; A radio frequency front end (RFFE) circuit including a first filter for a first frequency band, a second filter for a second frequency band, and an antenna switching circuit; first antenna; a second antenna; and It includes an impedance adjustment circuit electrically connected to the SRS (sounding reference signal) output port of the above antenna switching circuit, The above impedance adjustment circuit provides a characteristic impedance of a specified size at the SRS output port of the antenna switching circuit, The first antenna is used to transmit or receive signals of the first frequency band through the antenna switching circuit in which the characteristic impedance of the specified size is provided to the SRS output port, The second antenna is used to transmit SRSs of the second frequency band through the antenna switching circuit and the impedance adjustment circuit connected to the SRS output port of the antenna switching circuit. Electronic devices.

2. In claim 1, While the second filter for the second frequency band and the first port of the antenna switching circuit are electrically connected, the first SRS of the second frequency band is transmitted through the RF transceiver, the RFFE circuit, and the first antenna. After the first SRS of the second frequency band is transmitted through the first antenna, the antenna switching circuit is controlled to electrically connect the first filter for the first frequency band and the first port, and to electrically connect the second filter for the second frequency band and the SRS output port of the antenna switching circuit. While the second filter for the second frequency band is electrically connected to the SRS output port, the second SRS of the second frequency band is transmitted through the RF transceiver, the RFFE circuit, the impedance adjustment circuit, and the second antenna. Electronic devices.

3. In claim 1, The above impedance adjustment circuit comprises an attenuation circuit including at least one passive element, wherein said at least one passive component comprises resistors having values ​​configured such that said characteristic impedance has said specified magnitude; Electronic devices.

4. In claim 3, The RFFE circuit comprises a front end module including the first filter, the second filter, and the antenna switching circuit, The first port of the above front-end module is electrically connected to the first antenna, A second port of the front end module is connected to the attenuation circuit and is electrically connected to the second antenna through the attenuation circuit and at least one switching circuit, The above attenuation circuit is arranged on the PBA (printed board assembly) of the electronic device. Electronic devices.

5. In claim 3, The RFFE circuit comprises a front end module including the first filter, the second filter, and the antenna switching circuit, The above attenuation circuit is arranged inside the front end module, The first port of the above front-end module is electrically connected to the first antenna, The second port of the above front-end module is electrically connected to the second antenna, Within the front end module, the attenuation circuit is arranged between the antenna switching circuit and the second port of the front end module. Electronic devices.

6. In claim 1, The above impedance adjustment circuit includes an SRS coupler, The above SRS coupler includes an input port, a through port, and a coupling port, The above input port is configured to receive signals of the second frequency band, The above pass port is connected to an impedance load having the above specified size, The above coupling port is configured to output SRSs coupled based on signals of the second frequency band. Electronic devices.

7. In claim 6, The RFFE circuit comprises a front end module including the first filter, the second filter, and the antenna switching circuit, The first port of the above front-end module is electrically connected to the first antenna, The second port of the front end module is connected to the input port of the SRS coupler and is electrically connected to the second antenna through the SRS coupler and at least one switching circuit, The above SRS coupler is placed on the PBA (printed board assembly) of the electronic device. Electronic devices.

8. In claim 6, The RFFE circuit comprises a front end module including the first filter, the second filter, and the antenna switching circuit, The above SRS coupler is placed inside the front end module, The first port of the above front-end module is electrically connected to the first antenna, The second port of the above front-end module is electrically connected to the second antenna, The input port of the SRS coupler inside the front end module is connected to the antenna switching circuit, The coupling port of the SRS coupler within the front end module is connected to the second port of the front end module. Electronic devices.

9. In claim 6, Further comprising a coupler disposed between the antenna switching circuit and the first antenna, The above coupler includes an input port, a through port, and a coupling port, The above input port is configured to receive the first SRS of the second frequency band, The above pass-through port is configured to output the first SRS, The above coupling port is configured to output a signal coupled based on the first SRS. Electronic devices.

10. In claim 1, While the second filter for the second frequency band is electrically connected to the SRS output port through the antenna switching circuit, signals of the first frequency band are received through the first antenna. Electronic devices.

11. In claim 10, The above first frequency band is a band for LTE (long-term evolution) signals, The above second frequency band is a TDD (time division duplex) band for NR (new radio) signals, The electronic device is configured with EN (EUTRA (Evolved UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunication System) Terrestrial Radio Access Network))-NR)-DC (dual connectivity) using the first frequency band and the second frequency band. Electronic devices.

12. In claim 1, 3rd antenna; Including a fourth antenna, The first antenna, the second antenna, the third antenna, and the fourth antenna are used for 1T4R (one transmit four receive) or 2T4R (two transmit four receive) of SRS antenna switching for the second frequency band. Electronic devices.

13. In claim 12, Second RFFE circuit, A third RFFE circuit for the second antenna, A fourth RFFE circuit for the third antenna, first switching circuit; and Further comprising a second switching circuit, The above impedance adjustment circuit is arranged between the antenna switching circuit and the first switching circuit, The first switching circuit is configured to selectively connect the impedance adjustment circuit to one of the second RFFE circuit or the third RFFE circuit, The second switching circuit is configured to selectively connect the output of the second RFFE circuit to one of the fourth ㅊ circuits or the fourth antenna, Electronic devices.

14. In claim 13, The first SRS for the above SRS antenna switching is transmitted through the first antenna, In order to transmit the second SRS through the second antenna, the first switching circuit is controlled so that the impedance adjustment circuit and the third RFFE circuit are connected, In order to transmit the third SRS through the third antenna, the first switching circuit is controlled so that the impedance adjustment circuit and the second RFFE circuit are connected, and the second switching circuit is controlled so that the output of the second RFFE circuit and the fourth RFFE circuit are connected. In order to transmit the fourth SRS through the fourth antenna, the second switching circuit is controlled so that the output of the second RFFE circuit and the fourth antenna are connected. Electronic devices.

15. In claim 1, The SRS of the second frequency band is transmitted through the impedance adjustment circuit and the second antenna, The transmission power of the above SRS is determined based on the SRS offset. Electronic devices.

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