Power Amplifier Bias Control for Fast Low-Idle Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power amplifiers in base station systems suffer from low efficiency due to static power dissipation when not outputting RF power, with existing solutions being limited in applicability and reliability, and requiring complex high-power control circuits.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that control power amplification by outputting voltage signals to the grid or base electrode of power amplifier transistors based on the state of the network equipment, allowing the power amplifier to switch on or off quickly, reducing static power dissipation and simplifying the control circuit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the power amplifier operates in Class A or Class AB with static working current Idq>0, then the efficiency is improved when outputting RF power, but static power is wasted when no RF power is output
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by switching the power amplifier between different operating states (Class A/AB for power output, Class C for idle) based on periodic detection of RF power output requirements. The control unit periodically monitors whether RF power output is needed and switches the amplifier class accordingly, eliminating static power waste during idle periods while maintaining high efficiency during active transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the amplifier class configurable and switchable rather than fixed. The power amplifier can dynamically transition between Class A, Class AB, and Class C operating modes based on real-time operational requirements. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to optimize between power efficiency during transmission and energy savings during idle periods, with response time determined by capacitor charging/discharging rates.
2Loss of energy
If the voltage of drain electrode is adjusted to 0V when no RF power output, then the overall efficiency is increased, but the response time is long and applicability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making different parts of the amplifier circuit operable under different conditions. Specifically, the power amplifier transistor operates in different classes (A/AB or C) based on local operational needs, while other circuit components remain active. This localized control allows fast switching by only adjusting the biasing of the power transistor rather than the entire amplifier system, reducing response time while maintaining energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the bias voltage and current parameters of the power amplifier transistor based on operational state. During idle periods, the bias parameters are changed to Class C settings (lower efficiency but zero static power), while during active transmission, parameters switch to Class A or AB settings. This parameter adaptation enables fast response by using capacitor-based bias switching rather than slow voltage adjustments.
3Loss of energy
If Class A or Class AB amplifier is used, then the efficiency is high when outputting power, but the static power is wasted when idle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control function from a complex high-power control circuit and implements it through a simple voltage detector and capacitor-based switching mechanism. The control unit only needs to detect whether RF power output is required and control the switching between amplifier classes, removing the need for complex high-power control circuitry while maintaining the ability to switch between efficient power amplification and low-power idle states.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and network equipment for controlling power amplification are disclosed. The method for controlling power amplification includes outputting a voltage signal according to the state of network equipment. When the network equipment is in an idle state, at least one power amplifier transistor is switched off according to a voltage signal.