N-Way Active Splitter Switch Network for Resonance-Free Default-On Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional broadband splitters with reflective switch elements in N-way active splitters suffer from resonance issues, limited frequency range, and compromised signal fidelity due to impedance mismatch when the switch is off, leading to increased insertion loss and noise figure.
Innovation Solution
A broadband splitter apparatus with a switch network that provides a default-on path and activates all output signals only when power is present, using an impedance-matched amplifier configuration to prevent resonance and maintain low insertion loss and signal fidelity, featuring a depletion mode FET transistor and an enhancement mode FET transistor with resistors to manage signal paths and impedance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a reflective switch element is used in the amplifier path, then the splitter can be implemented with a compact structure, but resonance occurs at certain frequencies and the operating frequency range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the reflective switch element from the amplifier path and replaces it with a non-reflective switching mechanism. This extraction of the problematic component eliminates the resonance issue while maintaining the splitter's compact structure through alternative circuit topology.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the switching mechanism from a reflective type to a non-reflective type, fundamentally altering the electrical characteristics of the switch element. This parameter change eliminates resonance peaks and extends the operational bandwidth across a broader frequency range.
2Ease of operation
If the switch is off or isolated, then the default-on path is established, but the path is not terminated in the characteristic impedance causing increased insertion loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary termination element that maintains characteristic impedance matching even when the switch is in the off state. This intermediary component acts as a mediator between the isolated switch and the transmission line, preventing impedance mismatch and reducing insertion loss in the default-on path.
3Ease of operation
If the switch is off, then the default-on path is activated, but the isolation of the amplifier switch is limited to the off impedance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a termination element as an intermediary that enhances the isolation performance of the amplifier switch when in the off state. This termination provides a defined impedance path that improves isolation beyond what the switch's off impedance alone could achieve, ensuring more reliable signal separation.
4Device complexity
If a conventional switch configuration is used, then the circuit is simple, but resonance occurs affecting output to input and output to output isolations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the resonant-causing reflective switch element from the circuit and replaces it with a non-reflective switching mechanism. This removal eliminates the harmful resonance effects that degrade output to input and output to output isolation while keeping the overall circuit configuration relatively simple.
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 extends the operating frequency range, eliminates resonance, and maintains low insertion loss and noise figure, ensuring signal fidelity and priority operation during power outages while conserving battery power.
Implementation Method 1
featuring a depletion mode FET transistor and an enhancement mode FET transistor with resistors to manage signal paths and impedance
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprising an amplifier and a switch network. The amplifier may be configured to generate a plurality of output signals in response to an input signal. The switch network may be configured to provide (i) a first path when a power signal is not present and (ii) a second path when said power signal is present. The first path may activate a first of the plurality of output signals. The second path may activate all of the plurality of output signals. An impedance may be connected to the amplifier only when the first path is activated.