RF Module Power Amplifier Voltage Mapping for Multiple Power Levels

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current RF modules in base stations are limited to supporting a single power amplification capability, leading to inefficiencies and increased production and maintenance burdens due to the need for multiple power amplifier modules with different specifications, which can result in equipment damage from improper assembly or overlarge input voltages.

Innovation Solution

An RF module with an adjustable power module and power control module that calculates and adjusts the power amplifier voltage based on received RF parameters, enabling the power amplifier to support multiple powers by determining a corresponding relationship between transmit power and power amplifier voltage through calibration and testing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple power amplifier modules with different specifications are used to meet different operator requirements, then the adaptability of the RF module is improved, but the device complexity and maintenance burden increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower support capabilityVSAvoidnumber of power amplifier types
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes a single power amplifier module capable of supporting multiple power levels (20W, 40W, 60W, 80W) by dynamically adjusting its operating parameters. The power amplifier module can adapt to different power requirements through software control and parameter configuration, eliminating the need for multiple hardware variants with different power capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operating parameters of the power amplifier module, specifically the voltage provided to the power amplifier, to enable different power output levels. By adjusting the voltage parameter dynamically, the same hardware can operate at different power levels, achieving multi-functionality without increasing hardware complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If power amplifier modules with different powers are assembled during production, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing precision and reliability deteriorate due to improper assembly and overlarge input voltages

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower support capabilityVSAvoidequipment safety
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic voltage adjustment based on the actual power amplifier module installed. The system can detect which power amplifier module is present and automatically adjust the operating voltage to appropriate levels, preventing overvoltage damage. This dynamic adaptation ensures that the voltage provided matches the capabilities of the installed module, eliminating reliability issues from improper voltage matching.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the system detects the installed power amplifier module's characteristics and adjusts operating parameters accordingly. This feedback loop ensures that voltage and power settings are always appropriate for the installed hardware, preventing damage from mismatched configurations and ensuring reliable operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of manufacture

If the power amplification capability is determined by manufacturing information, then the production process is simplified, but the adaptability to different application requirements is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction process simplicityVSAvoidpower level flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary detection and configuration during the production or initialization phase. The system detects which power amplifier module is installed and pre-configures the appropriate operating parameters and voltage levels. This preliminary action ensures that the module is properly configured for its specific capabilities before actual operation, maintaining both manufacturing simplicity and operational adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The power amplifier module performs self-detection and self-configuration based on its installed hardware characteristics. The module automatically identifies its own capabilities and configures the system accordingly, eliminating the need for complex manual configuration during production while ensuring proper adaptability to different power levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2337218B1Method, RF module and test method for enabling a power amplifier to support multiple power levels
Publication Date: 2012.12.26 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • EP2337218B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2337218B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2337218B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method for enabling a power amplifier to support multiple powers includes: calculating a transmit power according to RF parameters delivered by a baseband board, determining a power amplifier voltage according to the transmit power and a corresponding relationship between the transmit power and the power amplifier voltage, and adjusting a supply voltage of the power amplifier according to the determined power amplifier voltage so as to adjust an output power of the power amplifier. An RF module includes a conversion module that converts a baseband board signal into an RF signal, an antenna linear device, a storage module, a power amplifier module, an adjustable power module, and a power control module. A test method is employed to determine the relationship between a transmit power and a power amplifier voltage.