Multi-Path ADC Front End for Artifact-Free Gain Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multipath analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) and analog front ends (AFEs) face challenges in smooth switching between multiple paths, leading to undesirable signal artifacts, especially in audio applications, and do not scale well to integrated circuit levels.
Innovation Solution
A signal processing system with multiple processing paths, including a first and second path, each comprising an analog front end and an ADC, where the controller selects a weighted average of the digital signals based on the input signal magnitude to minimize artifacts and optimize dynamic range, with the second path having a substantially larger gain than the first.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple processing paths with different gains are used to handle different signal amplitudes, then dynamic range is improved, but switching between paths may cause signal artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the processing path selection adaptive rather than static. The system dynamically switches between first and second processing paths based on the amplitude of the input signal, with the first path having a first gain and the second path having a second gain. This dynamic adaptation allows optimal processing for different signal levels while maintaining continuous operation to avoid artifacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the gain parameter of the processing paths based on input signal characteristics. The first processing path is configured with a first gain suitable for certain amplitude ranges, while the second processing path uses a second gain for other amplitude ranges. This parameter change enables the system to optimize performance across different dynamic ranges without causing switching artifacts.
2Use of energy by moving object
If separate processing paths are optimized for different signal types, then power consumption and area are reduced, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing a processing system that can handle multiple signal types and amplitude ranges using a unified architecture. The system includes a first processing path and a second processing path that can be selectively activated based on input signal characteristics, allowing the same physical system to serve multiple functions (processing small signals with high gain, processing large signals with low gain) without requiring entirely separate dedicated circuits for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the processing system into distinct first and second processing paths, each optimized for specific signal amplitude ranges. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each path for its intended purpose while maintaining overall system efficiency. The first path handles signals requiring higher gain with lower noise, while the second path handles signals requiring lower gain, reducing overall power consumption and area compared to a single universal path.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a processing system may include multiple selectable processing paths for processing an analog signal in order to reduce noise and increase dynamic range. Techniques are employed to transition between processing paths and calibrate operational parameters of the two paths in order to reduce or eliminate artifacts caused by switching between processing paths.