PA Supply Network Harmonic Terminations for Concurrent RF Bands
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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 fundamental frequencies, particularly in advanced cellular technologies like LTE-Advanced and 5G NR, leading to issues such as increased board space and expense due to the need for additional power amplifiers.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a power amplifier supply network with harmonic termination circuits that provide open or short circuits at specific harmonic frequencies, along with isolation inductors and capacitors, to optimize power distribution and impedance for multiple power amplifiers operating at different fundamental frequencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power amplifiers are used to support concurrent operation at different fundamental frequencies, then system functionality and adaptability are improved, but board space and expense increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power amplifier supply networks into a single shared supply network that serves multiple power amplifiers operating at different fundamental frequencies. The harmonic termination circuits are integrated into this shared network, allowing multiple PAs to be powered through common distribution nodes while maintaining individual harmonic terminations. This merging approach reduces the overall board space required compared to separate supply networks for each PA.
Solution Approach 2:
The supply network is designed with universal harmonic termination circuits that can handle multiple fundamental frequencies simultaneously. The harmonic termination circuits are configured to provide open circuits at twice each fundamental frequency and short circuits at each fundamental frequency, making the single supply network adaptable to support concurrent operation of multiple PAs at different frequencies (e.g., mid-band and high-band 5G frequencies).
2Use of energy by moving object
If harmonic termination circuits are added to the power amplifier supply network, then power added efficiency and adjacent channel leakage ratio are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The harmonic termination circuits are implemented locally at each distribution node that supplies a specific power amplifier. Each distribution node has its own harmonic termination circuit configured for the specific fundamental frequency of the connected PA. This localized approach allows the supply network to maintain simplicity in common areas while providing specialized harmonic termination where needed, optimizing PAE and ACLR without excessively increasing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmonic termination circuits act as intermediary elements between the shared supply network and individual power amplifiers. These circuits provide the necessary harmonic control (open circuit at 2× fundamental frequency, short circuit at fundamental frequency) without requiring complete redesign of the entire supply network. The intermediary harmonic termination circuits isolate the complexities from the main supply network while delivering improved efficiency to the PAs.
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 enhances power added efficiency (PAE) and adjacent channel leakage ratio (ACLR) while reducing memory effects and distortion, allowing for flexible and efficient power management in devices with multiple active power amplifiers.
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
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
Implementation Method 3
a first isolation inductor connected between the input node and the first distribution node, and a second isolation inductor connected between the input node and the second distribution node
Implementation Method 4
a common mode capacitor connected between the input node and a ground voltage
Data Source
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.