Radio Node AGC Mode Switching for Pulsed Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication networks face performance issues due to unwanted transient signals generated when the Automatic Gain Control (AGC) changes state, leading to non-linear distortion and loss of link performance, especially in environments with high pulsed interference.
Innovation Solution
A radio network node dynamically decides between three AGC modes based on estimated interference scenarios and channel quality, using slow or fast release timers and trigger timers to optimize AGC behavior, thereby minimizing transients and improving signal quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the AGC changes state dynamically to adapt to varying signal conditions, then the receiver can handle a wider dynamic range of input powers, but unwanted transient signals are generated causing non-linear distortion and loss of link performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the AGC system adaptable through multiple operating modes (tracking mode, hold mode, release mode) that dynamically adjust gain based on signal conditions. The release timer mechanism allows the system to transition between states dynamically while controlling transient effects through timed transitions rather than immediate gain changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by introducing a release timer that prevents immediate gain changes when transitioning from track to hold mode. This timer creates a缓冲 period that cushions against abrupt transient signals, allowing the system to prepare for gain changes gradually rather than instantaneously, thereby reducing distortion.
2Speed
If a fast AGC response is used to quickly adapt to interference, then the system can respond rapidly to changing conditions, but transient distortion increases and link performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts response speed through different operating modes. In tracking mode, the AGC responds quickly to signal changes, while in hold mode, the release timer slows down the response to prevent transients. This dynamic adjustment of response characteristics allows the system to optimize between speed and reliability based on current signal conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The release timer introduces a periodic delay mechanism that controls the timing of gain changes. Rather than continuous or immediate adjustment, the system uses timed periodic transitions between modes, which regularizes the response pattern and prevents erratic transient behavior that would degrade link performance.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If a slow AGC response is used to minimize transients, then transient distortion is reduced, but the system cannot respond quickly enough to pulsed interference
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between slow (hold mode with timer) and fast (tracking mode) responses based on detected signal conditions. When pulsed interference is detected, the system can transition to tracking mode for rapid response, while during stable conditions, it uses hold mode with slower timing to minimize transients. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between speed and transient control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the timing parameters of the release timer based on operating conditions. The timer duration can be adjusted to optimize the balance between transient reduction and response speed. By varying this critical parameter, the system adapts its response characteristics to match the interference environment, achieving both transient control and adequate response speed.
4Loss of time
If the release timer is set to a short duration for fast AGC mode, then the system responds quickly to signal changes, but transient effects increase
Solution Approach 1:
The release timer is designed with a minimum duration that provides beforehand cushioning against transient effects. Even in fast AGC mode, the timer ensures a minimum缓冲 period before gain changes occur, preventing the most severe transients while still allowing relatively quick adaptation. This cushioning effect is built into the timer architecture itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The release timer duration is made variable through parameter changes based on operating mode. The system can adjust the timer value to optimize the balance between adaptation speed and transient control. By changing this parameter dynamically, the system achieves different levels of responsiveness while maintaining protection against excessive transients.
Data Source
AI summary
A method performed by a radio network node for deciding an Automatic Gain Control (AGC) mode to be used for a received signal in a wireless communications network is provided. The radio network node estimates (301) a type of interference scenario affecting the received signal and obtains (302) information about channel quality of channels between the radio network node and connected wireless devices. Based on the estimated type of interference scenario and the obtained information about the channel quality, the radio network node dynamically decides (303) for the received signal, which AGC mode out of the following ACG modes to be used: —a slow AGC using a release timer for releasing an AGC state, —a fast AGC using a release timer for releasing an AGC state, and—a fast AGC using a trigger timer triggering an AGC state a first time interval before an interference period, and the release timer releasing the AGC state a second time interval after said interference period ends.