Complex ADC Integrator Reuse for Lower Power RF Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
In RF communications, the use of separate real Analogue-to-Digital Converters (ADCs) with integrators for both positive and negative frequencies leads to unnecessary power consumption and die area costs due to symmetric frequency response, as both positive and negative frequencies need to be processed, despite only positive frequencies being relevant.
Innovation Solution
A complex ADC apparatus and method that reuses a complex Analogue-to-Digital Converter circuit by employing a first real integrator cross-coupled with a second real integrator to provide a complex pole, allowing for shared integrator structures that can be decoupled for different signal processing functions, thereby reducing redundant components and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate real ADCs with integrators are used for both positive and negative frequencies, then complete frequency coverage is achieved, but power consumption increases and die area expands
Solution Approach 1:
The complex ADC with cross-coupled integrators serves multiple functions: it processes both positive and negative frequency components through its symmetric structure, while the same integrators can be decoupled and reused for different signal processing functions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated ADCs for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple separate real ADCs into a single complex ADC structure. By cross-coupling the first and second integrators, the system combines the processing capabilities for both positive and negative frequencies in one unified circuit, reducing total component count and power consumption
2Reliability
If separate real ADCs with integrators are used for both positive and negative frequencies, then complete frequency coverage is achieved, but die area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex ADC with cross-coupled integrators serves multiple functions: it processes both positive and negative frequency components through its symmetric structure, while the same integrators can be decoupled and reused for different signal processing functions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated ADCs for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple separate real ADCs into a single complex ADC structure. By cross-coupling the first and second integrators, the system combines the processing capabilities for both positive and negative frequencies in one unified circuit, reducing total component count and power consumption
3Use of energy by moving object
If a complex ADC with cross-coupled integrators is used, then power consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetry in the coupling configuration: the first integrator is cross-coupled to the second integrator, but not vice versa in the same manner. This asymmetric cross-coupling creates the complex pole structure needed for the NTF zeros while maintaining controllability through selective decoupling
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between coupled and decoupled states. The cross-coupling is activated when complex ADC functionality is needed, and deactivated when separate real ADC functionality is required, allowing the circuit to adapt its complexity level based on operational requirements
4Productivity
If the same integrators are reused for multiple functions, then resource utilization is optimized, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between coupled and decoupled states. The cross-coupling is activated when complex ADC functionality is needed, and deactivated when separate real ADC functionality is required, allowing the circuit to adapt its complexity level based on operational requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The integrator circuit is segmented into independently controllable units. The first and second integrators can be coupled together for complex ADC operation or decoupled for separate real ADC operation, with each integrator being a distinct functional block that can be independently activated or deactivated
Data Source
AI summary
An analogue-to-digital converter apparatus comprises a first integrator coupled to a second integrator. The first and second integrators are coupled so as to provide a complex pole. The first integrator is selectively electrically decoupleable from the second integrator, thereby removing the complex pole.