RF Integrated Circuit Self-Test Using Amplifier Oscillator Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of cost-effectively testing high-frequency radio frequency integrated circuits, particularly front-end modules, in large volumes without specialized equipment or probes, especially for verifying antenna connections and transmission/reception paths, is unresolved in existing technologies.
Innovation Solution
Reconfiguring amplifiers within the front-end module as oscillators using a controlled positive feedback loop to generate RF signals for self-testing, allowing verification of antenna connections and evaluation of transmission/reception paths without external generators or reference antennas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If indirect testing solutions using digital signals are used, then testing cost is reduced, but testing precision for high-frequency RF signals deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The front-end module performs self-testing by generating its own RF test signals through the amplifier and measuring its own performance parameters. The module uses its internal resources (amplifier, antenna connection) to conduct tests without requiring external RF signal generators or specialized test equipment, thereby reducing testing cost while maintaining measurement precision for high-frequency signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The amplifier is reconfigured dynamically between its normal amplification mode and oscillator mode for signal generation. By controlling the feedback loop switch, the amplifier can switch between these two states, enabling the system to adapt its functionality based on testing requirements without requiring separate dedicated test hardware.
2Measurement precision
If specialized test equipment and reference antennas are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and testing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the RF signal generation function from external specialized test equipment and relocates it directly into the amplifier circuit itself. By converting the amplifier into an oscillator that generates RF signals internally, the system eliminates the need for external RF signal generators and reference antennas, thereby reducing device complexity and testing cost while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The amplifier serves multiple functions: it acts as both a normal signal amplifier during operation and as an RF signal generator (oscillator) during self-testing. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated test equipment, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the capability to perform precise high-frequency measurements.
3Measurement precision
If RF tests are performed externally, then measurement precision is improved, but test time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The front-end module performs its own RF performance testing autonomously without requiring external test equipment setup or teardown. The integrated self-testing capability allows the module to quickly verify antenna connections and RF performance in-situ, significantly reducing test time and increasing productivity compared to traditional external RF testing methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-testing function is integrated directly into the front-end module, allowing RF performance verification to be performed immediately during or alongside normal operation setup. This eliminates the need for separate preliminary external testing steps, reducing overall test time and improving productivity while maintaining measurement precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, low-cost in-situ testing of radio frequency integrated circuits by generating high-frequency signals for self-testing, reducing the need for expensive equipment and probes, and ensuring proper antenna connections and performance verification.
Implementation Method 1
reconfiguring amplifiers within the front-end module as oscillators using a controlled positive feedback loop to generate RF signals
Data Source
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AI summary
Radio frequency transmitting and/or receiving integrated circuit comprising at least one radio frequency signal amplifier, said at least one amplifier being configured in operational mode to perform an amplification function of a radio frequency signal applied at the input, said amplifier being configured to perform an oscillator function in a self-test mode of the integrated circuit, to generate a radio frequency signal on at least one of the input or output of said amplifier, characterized in that the integrated circuit is configured to allow, in said self-test mode, the propagation of said radio frequency signal in at least one component of said radio frequency integrated circuit, distinct from said amplifier, and in that it also comprises a circuit for measuring a signal generated following propagation of said radio frequency signal in said component of said integrated circuit and representative of at least one characteristic of said component.Self-testing method for such an integrated circuit.