Dual-Mode Delta-Sigma ADC Resonator for Real and Complex Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Delta-sigma analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) face challenges in efficiently switching between real and complex modulation modes, which affects their performance in different radio receiver configurations, such as direct conversion and low-IF or heterodyne receivers, due to limitations in resonant frequency adjustment and circuit complexity.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of dual-mode resonators with switches that allow the delta-sigma ADC to operate in either real or complex modulation modes by changing the resonant frequency through adjustments in the RC time constant, specifically by modifying the resistance values associated with integrators, enabling seamless mode switching without the need for variable capacitance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the delta-sigma ADC uses separate circuits for real and complex modulation modes, then the performance in each mode is optimized, but the device complexity and circuit area increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal resonator circuit that can operate in both real and complex modulation modes by switching the configuration of existing components. The same resonator hardware serves dual purposes: as a real resonator for direct conversion receivers and as a complex resonator for low-IF receivers, eliminating the need for separate dedicated circuits for each mode and thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining optimized performance in both modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic reconfiguration of the resonator circuit through switching mechanisms that alter the circuit topology based on the operating mode requirement. By dynamically changing the connection configuration of capacitors and resistors within the resonator, the system adapts between real and complex modes without requiring static separate circuits, thus reducing complexity while preserving mode-specific performance characteristics.
2Reliability
If the delta-sigma ADC is designed for complex modulation mode, then it performs well in low-IF receivers, but it consumes more current and occupies more circuit area compared to real modulation mode
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of the resonator circuit through switching mechanisms that alter the circuit topology based on the operating mode requirement. By dynamically changing the connection configuration of capacitors and resistors within the resonator, the system adapts between real and complex modes without requiring static separate circuits, thus reducing complexity while preserving mode-specific performance characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the resonator by reconfiguring the circuit topology to alter the resonant frequency and Q-factor characteristics. Through parameter changes in the resonator configuration (switching between different capacitor connections and resistor configurations), the system achieves optimal performance for complex modulation in low-IF mode while controlling current consumption by only activating the necessary circuit paths for the current operating mode.
3Measurement precision
If variable capacitance is used to adjust resonant frequency for mode switching, then the resonant frequency can be precisely tuned, but the circuit area and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the resonator by reconfiguring the circuit topology to alter the resonant frequency and Q-factor characteristics. Through parameter changes in the resonator configuration (switching between different capacitor connections and resistor configurations), the system achieves optimal performance for complex modulation in low-IF mode while controlling current consumption by only activating the necessary circuit paths for the current operating mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical adjustment of capacitance values with an electronic switching mechanism that reconfigures the circuit topology. Instead of using variable capacitors or mechanical tuning elements, the system uses electronic switches to change the effective capacitance and resistance values by connecting different fixed components in different configurations, thereby achieving precise resonant frequency tuning without the area and complexity overhead of true variable capacitance components.
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 allows for efficient operation in both direct conversion and low-IF modes with reduced current consumption and circuit area, providing high-quality bitstreams for in-phase and quadrature components of RF signals, enhancing the versatility and performance of the delta-sigma ADC in various wireless communication systems.
Implementation Method 1
The resonant frequency of each of the dual-mode resonators may be changed by changing the resistance portion of an RC time constant applicable to integrators within the dual-mode resonators
Data Source
AI summary
A delta-sigma analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is disclosed. In one embodiment, the delta-sigma ADC includes a dual mode resonator and a plurality of switches. The delta-sigma ADC is configured to operate in a real modulation mode or a complex modulation mode based on settings of the plurality of switches.