RF Module PA-Filter Layout for Lower High-Power Path Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio-frequency modules struggle to achieve improved transmission power, particularly when output power levels required by multiple power amplifiers differ across various frequency bands.
Innovation Solution
A radio-frequency module is designed with a mounting substrate, a first power amplifier, a second power amplifier, a switch, multiple filters, and a signal processing circuit. The second power amplifier has a higher output power level than the first, and its output is directly connected to a filter without a switch, reducing power loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a switch is used to connect the first power amplifier to multiple filters, then the first power amplifier can be switchably connected to different filters for different frequency bands, but power loss occurs due to the switch being interposed in the signal path
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the switch from the signal path of the second power amplifier, eliminating the source of power loss for that amplifier. The second power amplifier is directly connected to the second filter without any switch interposed, thereby removing the harmful element (switch) from the high-power signal path while the first power amplifier retains switchable connectivity for lower-power operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the output power levels of multiple power amplifiers are different, then each amplifier can be optimized for its specific frequency band, but it becomes difficult to improve overall transmission power due to the need to accommodate the lower power level
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different connection configurations to different power amplifiers based on their specific requirements. The first power amplifier (with lower output power) is connected via a switch to multiple filters, allowing adaptability across frequency bands. The second power amplifier (with higher output power) is directly connected to its filter without a switch, optimizing for maximum power transmission in its specific band. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by allowing each amplifier to be optimized for its role.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a switch is interposed between the second power amplifier and the second filter, then the second power amplifier can be connected to different filters, but power loss increases and the design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The switch is extracted from the second power amplifier's signal path, eliminating the need for complex switching mechanisms in the high-power path. The second power amplifier maintains a simple, direct connection to the second filter, reducing both power loss and circuit complexity while the first power amplifier retains switchable connectivity for its multiple filter options.
Data Source
AI summary
A radio-frequency module includes a first power amplifier, a second power amplifier, a switch, a plurality of first filters, and a second filter. The first power amplifier amplifies a transmission signal of a first frequency band and outputs the amplified transmission signal. The second power amplifier amplifies a transmission signal of a second frequency band and outputs the amplified transmission signal. The pass bands of the plurality of first filters are contained within the first frequency band. The pass band of the second filter is contained within the second frequency band. The second power amplifier has a greater output power level than the first power amplifier. The first output terminal of the first power amplifier is switchably connectable to the plurality of first filters via the switch. The second output terminal of the second power amplifier is connected to the second filter without the switch interposed therebetween.