Mode-Switching Programmable Gain Amplifier for Variable Bandwidth

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional signal receiving apparatuses require multiple amplifiers with different characteristics to handle varying network communication speeds and bandwidths, leading to increased hardware costs.

Innovation Solution

A programmable gain amplifier with a mode-switching mechanism that includes an operational amplifier, variable resistors and capacitors, and switches controlled by mode-switching signals to adapt to different gain amplification and bandwidth processing needs, integrated with an analog-to-digital conversion and digital signal processing circuit.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple amplifiers with different characteristics are used to handle varying network communication speeds and bandwidths, then the adaptability to different network conditions is improved, but the hardware cost and device complexity increase greatly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different network conditionsVSAvoidhardware circuit cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a single amplifier circuit that can perform multiple functions by dynamically reconfiguring its components. The amplifier can adapt to different network conditions (various communication speeds and bandwidths) by switching between different capacitor configurations and gain settings, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated amplifiers for different scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs dynamic reconfiguration of the amplifier circuit through switchable capacitor connections and adjustable gain control. The circuit can change its characteristics in real-time based on network conditions, allowing a single static hardware component to perform the role of multiple amplifiers with different fixed characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple amplifiers with different characteristics are used to perform different degrees of gain amplification and bandwidth processing, then the processing capability for different bandwidths is improved, but the quantity of hardware components increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebandwidth processing capabilityVSAvoidquantity of amplifiers
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The amplifier circuit is designed with universal capability to handle various bandwidth requirements through reconfigurable capacitor networks. By switching between different capacitor connections (C1, C2, C3 in various configurations), the single amplifier can process different bandwidth ranges, replacing the need for multiple specialized amplifiers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple amplifier functions into a single integrated circuit by merging different capacitor banks and control mechanisms into one unified amplifier structure. This consolidation allows the single amplifier to perform the work of multiple amplifiers while reducing the total quantity of hardware components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS12362714B2Signal receiving apparatus and programmable gain amplifier having mode-switching mechanism
Publication Date: 2025.07.15 REALTEK SEMICON CORP
  • US12362714B2 patent drawing
  • US12362714B2 patent drawing
  • US12362714B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention discloses a programmable gain amplifier having mode-switching mechanism. An operational amplifier includes a first input terminal, a second input terminal and an output terminal. The second input terminal is coupled to a ground terminal. The output terminal generates an output signal. A variable resistor and a first switch are coupled in series between a first terminal and a second terminal that coupled to the first input terminal. A first variable capacitor and a second switch are coupled in series between the first terminal and the second terminal. A second variable capacitor and a third switch are coupled in series between the first terminal and the ground terminal. A low-pass resistor and a low-pass capacitor are coupled in parallel between the first input terminal and the output terminal. An input resistor is coupled between a signal input terminal and the first terminal to receive an input signal from the signal input terminal. The first, the second and the third switches receive a set of mode-switching signals to switch to form a path or an open-circuit.