Multi-Port CATV Splitter Transformer Layout for 2GHz Bandwidth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power splitters in CATV networks are limited to frequencies up to 1200MHz due to ferrite core transformers, which restrict their performance, and cannot adequately handle the increased bandwidth required by newer Internet signal protocols extending up to 1700MHz.
Innovation Solution
A multi-port power splitter design using step-up transformers with fewer than seven turns and different turn ratios, connected in a specific configuration to increase bandwidth, allowing for impedance adjustments and improved performance up to 2GHz.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional seven-turn ferrite core transformers are used in power splitters, then impedance matching is achieved, but bandwidth is limited to around 1200MHz
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the number of turns parameter of the ferrite core transformers from the conventional seven turns to fewer turns (specifically 5 turns for the first transformer and 3 turns for the second transformer). This parameter change increases the bandwidth to accommodate frequencies up to 1700MHz while the impedance matching is maintained through careful selection of the turn ratios and configuration of the transformer circuit.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of turns in step-up transformers is increased to achieve impedance matching, then impedance performance is improved, but bandwidth is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces the number of turns parameter in the step-up transformers from seven turns to five and three turns respectively. This reduction decreases the insertion loss and increases the frequency bandwidth to 1700MHz and above, while the impedance matching is maintained through the specific turn ratio configuration of the transformer circuit.
3Adaptability or versatility
If ferrite core transformers with seven turns are used, then impedance matching at 75Ω is achieved, but the splitter cannot handle frequencies above 1200MHz
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the number of turns parameter of the ferrite core transformers from seven turns to fewer turns (five turns for the first transformer and three turns for the second transformer). This parameter change extends the operating frequency range to 1700MHz and above while maintaining signal transmission quality through proper impedance matching achieved by the specific turn ratio configuration.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional transformer designs are used to maintain impedance matching, then signal quality is preserved, but bandwidth extension to 1700MHz is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces the number of turns parameter in the transformers from seven turns to five and three turns respectively. This reduction decreases the transformer losses (both copper loss and core loss) and extends the bandwidth to 1700MHz and above, while the impedance matching is maintained through the specific turn ratio configuration of the transformer circuit.
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
The solution significantly enhances bandwidth and maintains a good impedance match, achieving better performance and reduced losses at frequencies above 1200MHz, enabling the splitter to function effectively up to 2GHz while maintaining 75Ω impedance at all ports.
Implementation Method 1
a multi-port power splitter design using step-up transformers with fewer than seven turns and different turn ratios to increase bandwidth
Implementation Method 2
their performance is restricted due to the ferrite core transformers used
Data Source
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AI summary
There is provided a signal splitter (34) comprising at least four outputs (14, 16, 14', 16') and a plurality of step-up transformers (36, 36', 38), wherein each step-up transformer has less than seven turns. A first step-up transformer (38) is connected to a common port (12) and positioned between the input (12) and second and third step-up transformers (36, 36'). The first step-up transformer (38) has a different number of turns to the second and third step-up transformers (36, 36').