RF Module Signal Path Layout for High-Power Band Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio-frequency modules face challenges in achieving improved transmission power, particularly when output power levels of power amplifiers differ across various frequency bands, leading to inefficiencies and increased complexity in design.
Innovation Solution
A radio-frequency module design incorporating a mounting substrate with a first and second power amplifier, a switch, and filters, where the second power amplifier has a higher output power level than the first, and its output is directly connected to a filter without an intervening switch, reducing power loss and simplifying the design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a switch is interposed between the second power amplifier and the second filter, then the circuit can be unified and controlled, but power loss increases and transmission power decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the switch from the second frequency band signal path, removing it only where it causes unnecessary power loss, while retaining it in the first frequency band path where it provides useful circuit control and unification. This selective removal reduces power loss without completely sacrificing circuit manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different circuit configurations to different frequency bands: the first frequency band uses a switched configuration for control flexibility, while the second frequency band uses a direct connection for minimal power loss. This local differentiation optimizes each band's performance characteristics.
2Power
If the output power levels of power amplifiers are made equal across frequency bands, then the design is simplified, but transmission power cannot be improved for the second frequency band
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements excessive power output from the second power amplifier relative to the first, providing more than enough power for the second frequency band. The excess power is then managed by the direct connection to the filter, which passes only the required amount while dissipating or reflecting the excess, thereby achieving high transmission power without requiring complex power management circuitry.
3Loss of energy
If wiring lines between components are extended to accommodate all components, then connectivity is improved, but power loss in wiring lines increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the unnecessary switch component from the second frequency band path, thereby eliminating the wiring lines that would connect to it. This removal of unnecessary elements directly reduces wiring line length and associated power loss while maintaining all essential connectivity for signal transmission.
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.