Dual-Channel RF Front-End Layout for Multi-Band 4x4 MIMO
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and large area occupancy of multiple RF front-end modules in 5G RF systems due to the integration of different frequency bands, which complicates the layout and increases insertion loss.
Innovation Solution
A dual-channel RF transceiving system with an RF LFEM device that integrates two receive channels for at least two frequency bands into a single chip, supporting 4*4 MIMO function and SRS antenna switching, reducing substrate area and costs while enhancing channel capacity and estimation accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple RF front-end modules are used to support different frequency bands, then the system can achieve multi-band functionality, but the substrate area and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple RF front-end modules (first RF front-end module for first frequency band, second RF front-end module for second frequency band) into a single integrated RF front-end device. This merging approach allows the system to support multiple frequency bands while reducing the total substrate area occupied, as the integrated module shares common components and circuitry rather than requiring separate dedicated modules for each frequency band.
Solution Approach 2:
The RF front-end module is designed with multi-functional capability to handle multiple frequency bands (first frequency band and second frequency band) through a single module. The module includes configurable components such as switchable low-noise amplifiers (LNAs) and power amplifiers (PAs) that can be activated based on the required frequency band, enabling one module to perform the functions previously requiring multiple separate modules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple RF front-end modules are used for different frequency bands, then multi-band support is achieved, but the layout complexity and insertion loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple RF front-end modules into a single integrated device, the patent reduces layout complexity. The integrated design allows for optimized signal routing and shorter interconnections between components, minimizing the complexity of PCB layout and reducing the number of external connections required. The module includes integrated switching networks and shared RF paths that simplify the overall layout compared to multiple separate modules.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple RF front-end modules are used, then different frequency bands can be handled, but insertion loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated RF front-end module reduces insertion loss by minimizing the number of external connections and inter-module signal paths. The combined design allows for shorter internal signal routes and fewer connection points where signal attenuation could occur, compared to multiple separate modules requiring external interconnections.
Solution Approach 2:
Within the integrated module, the patent employs segmentation by implementing separate signal paths for different frequency bands that can be selectively activated. The module includes switchable components (LNAs, PAs, switches) that can be configured to handle specific frequency bands independently, allowing optimal signal routing for each band while maintaining low insertion loss through dedicated internal paths rather than shared external connections.
Data Source
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AI summary
A radio frequency (RF) transceiving system is provided. The RF transceiving system includes an RF transceiver (40), an antenna group, an RF low-noise-amplifier (LNA)-front-end module (LFEM) device (30), a first RF power amplifier module including duplexers (PA Mid) device (10), and a second RF PA Mid device (20). The antenna group includes a first antenna (Ant1), a second antenna (Ant2), a third antenna (Ant3), and a fourth antenna (Ant5), and configured for RF signal transmission/reception. The RF LFEM device (30) is provided with multiple transmit/receive ports, a first antenna port (ANT1), a second antenna port (ANT2), a third antenna port (ANT3), a fourth antenna port (ANT4), and multiple receive ports. The RF LFEM device (30) is configured for transmission and dual-channel reception of RF signals in at least two frequency bands. The first RF PA Mid device (10) is connected with the RF transceiver (40) and one transmit/receive port of the RF LFEM device (30), and configured to transmit/receive an RF signal in multiple frequency bands. The second RF PA Mid device (20) is connected with the RF transceiver (40) and one transmit/receive port of the RF LFEM device (30), and configured to transmit/receive an RF signal in multiple frequency bands.