Multi-Band PA Supply Branches With Harmonic Open-Circuit Tuning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing radio frequency communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing power amplifier supply networks to support concurrent operation of multiple power amplifiers with different frequency bands, leading to issues such as high power consumption, interference, and reduced efficiency in power added efficiency (PAE) and adjacent channel leakage ratio (ACLR).

Innovation Solution

Implementing a power amplifier supply network with harmonic termination circuits that provide open or short circuits at specific harmonic frequencies for each power amplifier, along with isolation inductors and common mode capacitors, to manage impedance and reduce interference, thereby enhancing power added efficiency and adjacent channel leakage ratio.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple power amplifiers operate concurrently with different frequency bands, then system functionality and coverage are improved, but interference between amplifiers and power consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport for multiple frequency bandsVSAvoidinterference between power amplifiers
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The power amplifier supply network is segmented into multiple independent branches, each serving a specific power amplifier with different frequency characteristics. Each branch includes dedicated harmonic termination circuits that are tuned to specific harmonic frequencies, allowing independent optimization of each power amplifier's performance without interfering with others. This segmentation enables concurrent operation of multiple power amplifiers while minimizing mutual interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Harmonic termination circuits serve as intermediary elements between the power amplifiers and the power supply network. These circuits provide frequency-selective impedance matching and harmonic suppression, acting as mediators that prevent harmful harmonic interactions between different power amplifiers while maintaining efficient power delivery to each amplifier.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple power amplifiers operate concurrently, then system capability is improved, but power added efficiency and adjacent channel leakage ratio deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconcurrent operation capabilityVSAvoidpower added efficiency and adjacent channel leakage ratio
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Each branch of the power amplifier supply network is designed with local quality characteristics optimized for its specific power amplifier's frequency band and operating conditions. Harmonic termination circuits in each branch are tuned to provide appropriate impedance at specific harmonic frequencies relevant to that particular power amplifier, enabling optimal power added efficiency and adjacent channel leakage ratio for each amplifier while supporting concurrent operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If power amplifier supply voltage is distributed to multiple amplifiers, then system functionality is improved, but interference and efficiency are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-amplifier supportVSAvoidpower consumption efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The impedance parameters of the power amplifier supply network are dynamically optimized through frequency-selective harmonic termination circuits. Each circuit is designed to present specific impedance values at different frequency points, transforming the power supply network from a simple distribution system into an adaptive system that minimizes energy losses by matching impedance characteristics to each power amplifier's specific operating frequency and power requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 achieves improved power added efficiency and reduced interference in power amplifier systems, supporting concurrent operation of multiple power amplifiers with different frequency bands, thus enhancing the performance of radio frequency communication devices.

Implementation Method 1

a first harmonic termination circuit connected to the first distribution node and configured to provide an open circuit at about twice the first fundamental frequency

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHarmonic termination:

Implementation Method 2

provide the power amplifier supply voltage to the first power amplifier at a first distribution node and to the second power amplifier at a second distribution node

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectImpedance matching:

Implementation Method 3

a first isolation inductor connected between the input node and the first distribution node

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 4

a common mode capacitor connected between the input node and a ground voltage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance filtering: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS12413190B2Power amplifier supply networks with harmonic terminations
Publication Date: 2025.09.09 SKYWORKS SOLUTIONS INC
  • US12413190B2 patent drawing
  • US12413190B2 patent drawing
  • US12413190B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Power amplifier supply networks with harmonic terminations are disclosed. In certain embodiments, a power amplifier system includes a first power amplifier that amplifies a first radio frequency (RF) signal of a first fundamental frequency, a second power amplifier that amplifies a second RF signal of a second fundamental frequency, and a power amplifier supply network that distributes a power amplifier supply voltage to the first power amplifier at a first distribution node and to the second power amplifier at a second distribution node. The power amplifier supply network includes a first harmonic termination circuit connected to the first distribution node that provide an open circuit at about twice the first fundamental frequency, and a second harmonic termination circuit connected to the second distribution node and that provides an open circuit at about twice the fundamental frequency.