Integrated Circuit Transformer With Switched Differential Outputs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern integrated transceivers require external baluns for RF signal conversion, leading to increased costs and size, and existing transformer-based solutions do not efficiently manage high voltage swings between receive and transmit paths.
Innovation Solution
An integrated circuit with a transformer having separate differential outputs for receive and transmit paths, where a switch decouples the receive path from the transformer output when the transmit path is active, and a centre tap connects to ground or supply voltage to optimize switch operation and prevent voltage damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an external balun is used for single ended to differential conversion, then reliable RF signal conversion is achieved, but cost and device size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the balun function directly into the transformer structure within the transceiver chip, merging the external balun component with the internal transformer. This integration eliminates the need for separate external balun components, reducing device size and cost while maintaining the single-ended to differential conversion function through the transformer's winding configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides both the single-ended to differential conversion (balun function) and the RF signal transformation between transmit and receive paths. The primary winding connects to the single-ended RF input, while secondary windings provide differential outputs to both transmit and receive paths, making the transformer a multi-functional component that replaces multiple separate components
2Reliability
If the receive path is continuously connected to the transformer output, then receive signal quality is maintained, but high voltage swings from transmit path damage sensitive receive components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching of the receive path connection to the transformer output based on transmit/receive state. A control circuit monitors the operational state and dynamically connects the receive path to the transformer output during receive mode while disconnecting during transmit mode. This dynamic connection management prevents high voltage swings from the transmit path from reaching sensitive receive components while maintaining receive signal quality when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a switching mechanism as an intermediary between the transformer output and the receive path. This switch acts as a mediator that selectively connects or disconnects the receive path based on operational requirements. During transmit mode, the switch opens to protect receive components from high voltage swings; during receive mode, the switch closes to enable signal reception, thus mediating the interaction between the transformer and receive path
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 configuration reduces the size and cost of the transceiver, allows independent tuning of secondary windings for specific applications, and prevents high voltage swings from damaging sensitive components, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the transceiver.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer, the transformer comprising: an input coupled to one or more primary windings of the transformer; a first differential output coupled to a first set of one or more secondary windings of the transformer
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5B
AI summary
An integrated circuit comprising a transceiver including a transformer. The transformer includes an input coupled to one or more primary windings. The transformer also includes a first differential output coupled to a first set of one or more secondary windings. The transformer further includes a second differential output coupled to a second, different set of one or more secondary windings. A method of making an integrated circuit comprising a transceiver. The method includes forming a plurality of components on and/or in a semiconductor substrate. At least one of the components comprises a transformer. The method includes forming the transformer by forming one or more primary windings coupled to an input, forming a first set of one or more secondary windings coupled to a first differential output, and forming a second, different set of one or more secondary windings coupled to a second differential output.