High-Frequency Amplifier Input Switching for Wideband Predistortion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Amplifier devices for high-frequency signals face limitations in processing a wide range of frequencies due to the limited frequency range of pre-distortion units, which restricts the correction and amplification of incoming signals.
Innovation Solution
The amplifier device incorporates a switching unit and down-converter arrangement that allows for the processing of low, intermediate, and high-frequency signals by providing two interconnected branch lines, enabling the use of a pre-distortion unit with a limited frequency range, and includes an up-converter to ensure linearization and amplification of signals across all frequencies, along with a feedback unit for adaptive correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a pre-distortion unit with limited frequency range is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the frequency range of processable signals is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The incoming signal path is segmented into multiple branch lines (first and second incoming branch lines) with different frequency processing capabilities. The switching unit directs signals through appropriate segments based on frequency, allowing a simple pre-distortion unit to handle specific frequency ranges while maintaining overall system versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
A switching unit is introduced as an intermediary component between the input and the pre-distortion unit. This switching unit mediates the signal flow by selecting appropriate processing paths based on signal frequency, enabling the pre-distortion unit with limited frequency range to effectively process a broader spectrum of signals through intermediate frequency conversion.
2Manufacturing precision
If analog pre-distortion circuits are used for intermediate or low frequencies, then the frequency range is limited, but the manufacturing precision is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its signal processing path based on the input signal frequency. The switching unit responds to frequency conditions by routing signals through different branch lines, allowing the analog pre-distortion circuit to operate optimally within its designed frequency range while the system as a whole maintains versatility across broader frequencies.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters (frequency range) by selecting different signal paths. The first incoming branch line processes signals in a frequency range suitable for the analog pre-distortion unit, while the second branch line handles other frequency ranges, effectively changing the operational parameters of the system to match input conditions.
3Reliability
If digital pre-distortion technique is used, then amplitude-modulation-to-amplitude-modulation and amplitude-modulation-to-phase-modulation are compensated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an analog pre-distortion circuit that is simpler and more reliable for its specific frequency range, replacing complex digital processing for that particular application. The switching unit directs appropriate signals to this simpler analog circuit, effectively using a 'simpler substitute' for the specific task where it excels.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration allows for the processing of signals across an unlimited frequency range, ensuring linearized and amplified high-frequency output irrespective of the incoming signal frequency, with automatic frequency detection and switching for reduced operator error.
Implementation Method 1
The first incoming branch line of the incoming branch lines comprises a down-converter being arranged between the at least one input and the pre-distortion unit
Implementation Method 2
an up-converter is provided that is arranged between the pre-distortion unit and the amplifier unit. The up-converter converts the pre-corrected intermediate or low frequency signal upwardly to a high frequency signal
Data Source
AI summary
An amplifier device for high frequency signals, in particular a linear high frequency amplifier device, which comprises at least one input, an incoming line, a pre-distortion unit, in particular an adaptive pre-distortion unit, an amplifier unit, in particular a non-linear power amplifier unit, a transmission line, a feedback unit, and an output. The output is connected to the amplifier unit via the transmission line. In addition, the at least one input is connected to the pre-distortion unit such that two incoming branch lines are provided which are interconnected by a switching unit. A first incoming branch line of the incoming branch lines comprises a down-converter being arranged between the at least one input and the pre-distortion unit.