Multi-Band RF Front-End Circuit Reusing PAs Across 2G-5G
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio-frequency front-end (RFFE) architectures face challenges in balancing cost, integration, flexibility, and compatibility, particularly with the transition of 2G networks, leading to hardware waste and increased costs due to the need for multiple frequency bands and MIMO functionality.
Innovation Solution
A multi-mode, multi-band RFFE circuit that integrates power amplifiers, filters, and LNAs on a chip, reusing low and medium-frequency power amplifiers for 2G-5G communication, eliminating independent GSM power amplifiers and reducing the need for temperature-compensation filters, while maintaining compatibility with Phase2/5N architecture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional Phase2/5N architecture with separate power amplifiers for 2G and 3G/4G/5G is used, then 2G network compatibility is maintained, but hardware cost increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal power amplifier that can operate across 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G frequency bands by adjusting operating frequency and power parameters. The same hardware module serves multiple communication standards, eliminating the need for separate 2G and 3G/4G/5G power amplifiers. This multi-functional design reduces hardware complexity while maintaining compatibility with 2G networks during the transition period.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the previously separate 2G power amplifier and 3G/4G/5G power amplifier into a single integrated power amplifier module. By combining these functions into one hardware unit that can be configured for different frequency bands, the overall device complexity is reduced while maintaining all necessary communication capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independent power amplifiers are used for different frequency bands, then communication coverage is comprehensive, but overall system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal power amplifier capable of operating across multiple frequency bands (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G) by adjusting its operating parameters. This single multi-functional component replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate power amplifiers, thereby reducing the quantity of components while maintaining comprehensive frequency band coverage.
3Device complexity
If Phase7L integrated architecture is used, then integration level is maximized, but cost increases and flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts a segmented modular architecture where the power amplifier module is separated from the transceiver and antenna modules. This segmentation allows the power amplifier to be independently optimized and configured for different frequency bands and communication standards, providing flexibility during the 2G network transition period while maintaining a reasonable level of integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic configurability in the power amplifier module, allowing it to be adjusted for different operating modes (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G) and frequency bands. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to changing network requirements during the transition period, maintaining flexibility that rigid integrated architectures cannot provide.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a multi-mode, multi-band radio-frequency front-end (RFFE) circuit, a RFFE device and a mobile phone using the circuit device, wherein the circuit is provided between a transceiver and an antenna, and the circuit comprises: a transmission module, which is connected to the transceiver and configured to amplify a radio-frequency (RF) transmission signal generated by the transceiver; a receiving module having a transmission channel and a receiving channel; the receiving channel receives a radio-frequency (RF) signal from the antenna, amplifies the RF signal and transmits it to the transceiver; the transmission channel is cascaded to an output terminal of the transmission module and transmits the RF transmission signal amplified by the transmission module to the antenna; 2G low-pass filter matching circuits, connected between the transmission module and the receiving module; power amplifiers in the transmission module supporting 2G to 5G communication standards.