Dual-Band Amplifier Input Matching Without RF Switch Loss

Solution Overview

Problem

Current dual band communication systems for WiLAN technology require a switch or diplexer to direct radiofrequency signals to the appropriate low noise amplifiers, increasing complexity and cost while introducing signal loss.

Innovation Solution

A dual band amplifier circuit with matching circuits and filters that adjust input impedance to match the frequency range, allowing direct signal transmission to the appropriate amplifier without the need for switches or diplexers, using low pass and high pass filters to manage impedance in different frequency bands.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a switch or diplexer is used to direct radiofrequency signals to the appropriate low noise amplifiers, then the dual band amplification function is achieved, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedual band amplification functionVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single amplifier device that can handle both frequency bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) without requiring separate amplifiers or switching mechanisms. The amplifier is configured with multiple input ports, each optimized for a specific frequency band, allowing it to perform multiple functions simultaneously and eliminate the need for additional components like switches or diplexers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the amplifier into distinct input ports, each dedicated to a specific frequency band. This segmentation allows each port to be optimized for its designated band while maintaining a unified amplifier structure, thereby achieving dual band functionality without increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a switch or diplexer is used to direct radiofrequency signals, then the dual band amplification function is achieved, but the cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedual band amplification functionVSAvoidcost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single amplifier device that can handle both frequency bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) without requiring separate amplifiers or switching mechanisms. The amplifier is configured with multiple input ports, each optimized for a specific frequency band, allowing it to perform multiple functions simultaneously and eliminate the need for additional components like switches or diplexers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies merging by combining the functionality of multiple amplifiers and switching components into a single unified amplifier device. By integrating both frequency band handling capabilities within one device, the patent eliminates the need for separate components, thereby reducing manufacturing cost and simplifying the overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a switch or diplexer is used to direct radiofrequency signals, then the dual band amplification function is achieved, but signal loss increases and noise figure degrades

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedual band amplification functionVSAvoidsignal loss

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single amplifier device that can handle both frequency bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) without requiring separate amplifiers or switching mechanisms. The amplifier is configured with multiple input ports, each optimized for a specific frequency band, allowing it to perform multiple functions simultaneously and eliminate the need for additional components like switches or diplexers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies continuity of useful action by providing direct, continuous signal paths from each frequency band's input port to the corresponding amplification stage within the unified amplifier. This eliminates the need for signal routing through switches or diplexers, ensuring uninterrupted signal flow and preventing the signal loss and noise figure degradation that would result from additional connection points and potential mismatches.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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 solution reduces complexity and cost by eliminating the need for switches or diplexers, minimizing signal loss and improving noise figure performance by directly matching impedance for efficient signal processing across both frequency bands.

Implementation Method 1

a first matching circuit disposed in a first radiofrequency path between the input port and the first amplifier, the first matching circuit for transmitting the first input impedance to the input port when the radiofrequency signal is in the second frequency range and for transforming the first input impedance to a predetermined input port impedance when the radiofrequency signal is in the first frequency range

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectImpedance matching: Electrical Resistance

Implementation Method 2

a low pass filter disposed in a first radiofrequency path between the input port and a control terminal of the first amplifier transistor, the low pass filter having a predetermined first low pass filter reactance in the first frequency range for matching the first input impedance to a predetermined input port impedance and a predetermined second low pass filter reactance in the second frequency range for transmitting the first input impedance to the input port

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFiltering: Filter (electronic)

Implementation Method 3

a high pass filter disposed in a second radiofrequency path between the input port and a control terminal of the second amplifier transistor, the high pass filter having a predetermined first high pass filter reactance in the first frequency range for transmitting the second input impedance to the input port and a predetermined second high pass filter reactance in the second frequency range for matching the second input impedance to the input port impedance

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFiltering: Filter (electronic)

Data Source

PatentUS8610504B2Dual band amplifier

Publication Date: 2013.12.17 SIGE SEMICON

AI summary

A dual band amplifier is provided comprising a first matching circuit disposed in a first radiofrequency path between an input port and a first amplifier and a second matching circuit disposed in a second radiofrequency path between the input port and a second amplifier. The first matching circuit transforms a first input impedance of the first amplifier to a predetermined input port impedance when the radiofrequency signal is in a first frequency range and transmits the first input impedance to the input port when the radiofrequency signal is in the second frequency range. The second matching circuit transforms the second input impedance to the input port impedance when the input signal is in the second frequency range and transmits the second input impedance to the input port when the radiofrequency signal is in the first frequency range.