PT-Tracking Voltage Regulator for Amplifier Linearity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless transceiver designs face challenges in maintaining amplifier linearity and constant digital circuit current consumption in the presence of process and temperature variations, particularly with the advent of advanced mobile communication systems like 5G, which require efficient configuration to minimize cross-talk interference, reduce current drain, and enhance device performance.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a process and temperature (PT) tracking circuitry that generates voltage reference signals to modulate the voltage supply, allowing for adjustments based on PT variations, thereby maintaining consistent current consumption and amplifier linearity across different temperature and process conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed regulated voltage is used to supply digital circuits, then the voltage supply is simple and stable, but the current consumption varies significantly over process and temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a fixed regulated voltage supply to a dynamic voltage supply that tracks process and temperature variations. The voltage regulator is configured to modulate the voltage supply signal based on PT variations, enabling the system to adapt its operating point dynamically. This allows current consumption to be compensated for PT changes while maintaining voltage stability through active control rather than passive fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the voltage supply parameter in response to process and temperature variations. The system changes the voltage supply signal's characteristics (amplitude, timing) based on detected PT conditions, thereby adjusting the operating parameters of digital circuits to maintain constant current consumption despite environmental changes.
2Device complexity
If a fixed regulated voltage is used to supply an amplifier, then the voltage supply is simple, but the amplifier linearity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the voltage supply to the amplifier dynamic rather than fixed. The voltage regulator modulates the voltage supply signal based on process and temperature tracking, allowing the amplifier's operating point to be optimized for linearity under varying conditions. This dynamic adjustment compensates for PT-induced deviations from the optimal operating point, maintaining amplifier linearity without requiring complex manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the voltage regulator's closed-loop control mechanism that continuously monitors process and temperature variations and adjusts the voltage supply signal accordingly. This feedback loop ensures that the amplifier receives the appropriate voltage level to maintain optimal linearity performance, automatically compensating for environmental changes without external intervention.
3Device complexity
If process and temperature variations are not compensated, then the circuit design is simpler, but the performance consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a voltage regulator design that serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides voltage regulation, tracks process and temperature variations, and compensates for their effects on circuit performance. This multi-functional approach achieves performance consistency across varying conditions while avoiding the need for separate compensation circuits, thereby limiting the increase in overall design complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by systematically adjusting the voltage supply parameters in response to process and temperature variations. The voltage regulator modifies its output characteristics based on detected PT conditions, enabling consistent circuit performance across different operating environments. This parameter adaptation approach maintains reliability without requiring fundamentally different circuit architectures for each condition.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus can include tracking circuitry coupled to a current source and configured to generate a reference voltage signal based on a reference current signal from the current source. The apparatus can include voltage regulator circuitry coupled to the tracking circuitry and configured to generate a voltage supply signal based on the reference voltage signal. The apparatus can further include amplifier circuitry configured to amplify an input signal based on the voltage supply signal. The reference voltage signal can track process and temperature variations associated with at least one field effect transistor within the tracking circuitry. The voltage regulator circuitry can be configured to operate with a closed loop gain higher than 1. The tracking circuitry includes a first transistor connected in parallel with a second transistor, the first and second transistors having a complimentary type with each other (e.g., NMOS and PMOS transistors).