Integrated TR Switch With ESD Topology for Low-Noise Transceivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of external transmit-receive switches in transceivers increases the bill of material costs and adversely affects receiver noise figure and transmitter performance when integrated with internal switches.
Innovation Solution
An integrated transmit-receive switch and electrostatic discharge (ESD) circuitry are implemented on a semiconductor die, with configurable diode configurations to support both internal and external switch options, reducing interference and optimizing receiver performance while maintaining transmitter efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If an external transmit-receive switch is used, then the transceiver can be assembled with separate components, but the bill of material costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the transmit-receive switch directly into the semiconductor die of the transceiver, merging previously separate components (external switch and transceiver IC) into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate external switch components, reducing bill of material costs while maintaining the transmit-receive switching function.
2Quantity of substance
If an internal transmit-receive switch is used, then the bill of material costs are reduced, but the receiver noise figure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different design optimizations to different parts of the integrated circuit. The transmit-receive switch is designed with specific characteristics optimized for transmit mode operation, while the receiver path maintains its own optimized characteristics. This local quality approach allows the switch to be integrated without degrading receiver noise figure, as the switch's impact is localized and does not propagate adversely to the receiver path.
3Quantity of substance
If an internal transmit-receive switch is used, then the bill of material costs are reduced, but the transmitter performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the integrated transmit-receive switch with localized optimization for transmit mode performance. The switch structure and associated circuitry are configured to minimize impact on transmitter performance, with specific design features that isolate the switch's effects to only the necessary signal path transitions. This allows cost reduction through integration while maintaining transmitter performance through localized design quality.
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 reduces material costs and minimizes interference between transmit and receive paths, enhancing receiver performance and reducing noise figure impact, while supporting multiple wireless protocols.
Implementation Method 1
a first electrostatic discharge (ESD) circuit coupled to the inter-inductor node; a second ESD circuit coupled to the second inductor
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, an apparatus includes: a receiver pad to receive an incoming radio frequency (RF) signal; a first inductor coupled to the receiver pad; a second inductor coupled to the first inductor at an inter-inductor node; a first electrostatic discharge (ESD) circuit coupled to the inter-inductor node; a second ESD circuit coupled to the second inductor; a low noise amplifier (LNA) coupled to the second inductor to receive and amplify the incoming RF signal; a transmit-receive (TR) switch coupled to the LNA, where in a receive mode, the TR switch is to enable the LNA to receive the incoming RF signal; a transmit pad to output an outgoing RF signal; and a power amplifier (PA) coupled to the transmit pad, where in a transmit mode, the TR switch is to decouple the LNA.