Reconfigurable Mixer DAC Chip Using Shared Switch Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic devices require separate chips for digital-to-analog conversion and frequency mixing, leading to inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A single chip with a data input, switches, and a logic circuit that can operate in both DAC and mixer modes, using the same internal components to convert digital signals into analog signals with either the same or higher frequencies, depending on the mode selected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate chips are used for digital-to-analog conversion and frequency mixing, then each chip can be optimized for its specific function, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and mixer functions into a single integrated chip. The switch array is configured to perform both DAC conversion and frequency mixing operations, eliminating the need for separate chips and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining functional capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch array is designed as a universal component that can operate in multiple modes: as a DAC for digital-to-analog conversion and as a mixer for frequency mixing. The logic circuit controls the switches to perform different functions based on the operating mode, allowing one component to replace multiple specialized components.
2Device complexity
If a single chip performs both DAC and mixer functions, then device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different operating modes must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The logic circuit dynamically reconfigures the switch array between DAC mode and mixer mode based on operational requirements. The control signals generated by the logic circuit adapt the switching pattern to match the desired function, enabling the same hardware to perform different operations without physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating mode is changed by modifying the control parameters of the switch array. The logic circuit generates different control signals that change the switching behavior to match either DAC or mixer operation, allowing mode transition through parameter adjustment rather than structural change.
3Ease of manufacture
If the same switches are used for both DAC and mixer modes, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the precision required for both functions must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The same switch array is designed to serve both DAC and mixer functions with appropriate control logic. By optimizing the switch characteristics and control methodology, the patent achieves the required precision for both functions using identical hardware components, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The precision requirements are met by adjusting control parameters rather than changing hardware. The logic circuit generates optimized control signals that ensure accurate switching behavior for both DAC and mixer modes, maintaining manufacturing precision through parameter optimization.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic chip has a data input for receiving an input digital data signal with a data frequency, a plurality of switches, and a logic circuit operatively coupled with both the plurality of switches and the data input. The logic circuit controls the switches to be in one of a DAC mode or a mixer mode. The DAC mode causes the switches to convert the input digital data signal into a DAC analog signal having about the data frequency. The mixer mode, however, causes the switches to convert the input digital data signal into a mixed analog signal having a mixer frequency that is higher than the data frequency.