External RF Coupler Layout for Multi-Band Switching Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electronic devices supporting 4G and 5G communication, the switching noise from couplers deteriorates reception sensitivity due to the need to generate and switch coupling signals across multiple frequency bands.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device design featuring a main coupler outside the RF module and a switch that connects input ports to output ports in specific time periods to manage forward and reverse coupling signals, reducing noise transmission to the antenna path and improving sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a coupler switch is used to switch paths of coupling signals in multiple frequency bands, then the electronic device can support multiple frequency bands, but switching noise occurs and reception sensitivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission path is segmented into multiple paths: a first path for transmitting the main transmission signal and a second path for transmitting the coupling signal. By separating these signals into different paths, the switching noise from the coupler switch is prevented from being transmitted to the antenna, thus resolving the contradiction between multi-frequency band support and switching noise reduction.
2Device complexity
If a coupler is provided inside the RF module, then the device structure is compact, but switching noise is directly transmitted to the antenna path
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is relocated from inside the RF module to outside the RF module along the transmission path. This spatial repositioning allows the coupling signal to be extracted at a different location, enabling the use of a separate path for coupling signals that does not carry switching noise from the RF module's internal switches.
3Measurement precision
If coupling signals are switched across multiple frequency bands, then comprehensive signal monitoring is achieved, but reception sensitivity is deteriorated due to switching noise
Solution Approach 1:
The signal monitoring function is segmented into two independent paths: the main transmission signal path for high-power transmission and a separate coupling signal path for monitoring. This segmentation allows comprehensive signal monitoring across multiple frequency bands while preventing switching noise from degrading reception sensitivity, as the monitoring path does not carry the switching noise.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an electronic device including a transceiver configured to output a first transmission signal, a first radio frequency (RF) module configured to amplify the first transmission signal obtained from the transceiver to generate an amplified first transmission signal, a first antenna configured to transmit the amplified first transmission signal, and a main coupler provided outside the first RF module along a transmission path between the first RF module and the first antenna, and configured to output a first coupling signal corresponding to the first transmission signal. The first RF module includes at least one power amplifier configured to amplify the first transmission signal, and a switch configured to connect one of a plurality of input ports, including at least one input port connected to the main coupler and configured to receive the first coupling signal output by the main coupler, with an output port connected to the transceiver.