Multi-Path Amplifier Phase Matching Across Active and Bypass Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Designing multi-gain LNAs to meet stringent requirements of minimal phase shift difference between different gain modes, particularly when switching between high gain wideband and low current lower gain modes, is challenging, especially due to the large phase shift introduced by passive gain modes.
Innovation Solution
Implementing configurable phase shifters in both active and passive gain paths of multi-path RF front-ends to minimize phase discontinuity between different gain modes, using phase shifters that can be switched in or out and configured to specific topologies, thereby reducing the phase shift difference to within ±10° or less.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a passive gain mode is used to save power, then power consumption is reduced, but a large phase shift is introduced that may be prohibitive for certain applications
Solution Approach 1:
A phase shifter is introduced as an intermediary component in the passive gain path to compensate for the large phase shift. The phase shifter adjusts the phase of the signal in the passive path to match the phase in the active path, thereby reducing the phase shift difference while maintaining power savings.
Solution Approach 2:
The phase shifter dynamically adjusts the phase parameter of the signal in the passive gain path. By changing the phase parameter, the system can maintain minimal phase shift difference between active and passive modes while keeping power consumption low in passive mode.
2Use of energy by moving object
If different gain paths are used for high gain wideband and low current modes, then power consumption is reduced in low current modes, but phase shift difference between modes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The phase shifter acts as a mediator between the active and passive gain paths, adjusting the phase in the passive path to ensure phase alignment with the active path. This maintains reliability in terms of phase alignment while allowing power consumption to be reduced in passive mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The phase shifter provides dynamic phase adjustment capability, allowing the system to adapt the phase parameter based on the operating mode. This dynamic adjustment ensures phase alignment is maintained when switching between active and passive gain paths.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and devices to minimize or reduce phase discontinuity between different gain modes (including bypass, active and passive modes) with reduced increase in circuit size (footprint or number of components) and complexity, without impacting other performance parameters, are disclosed. Phase shifter elements that can be disposed in both the active and passive bypass paths are also described. Moreover, devices using the same reconfigurable phase shifter elements in both active and bypass modes are described. Components of the phase shifters can also perform output matching when the phase shifters are implemented as part of an RF receiver front-end.