RF Switch Circuit Segmentation for Faster High-Voltage Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radio-frequency switch circuits face challenges in achieving high-speed switching while maintaining high withstand voltage, as they typically require longer switching periods when switches are connected in multiple stages.
Innovation Solution
The proposed switch circuit divides the RF switch into two groups of transistors, with separate control signals for each group, allowing for faster switching by reducing the number of stages operating simultaneously and utilizing a level shifter circuit to generate and manage these control signals effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If switches are connected in multiple stages to achieve high withstand voltage, then voltage resistance is improved, but switching speed deteriorates due to longer switching periods
Solution Approach 1:
The RF switch is divided into two groups (first group and second group) with different switching characteristics. The first group handles high-voltage switching while the second group handles low-voltage switching, allowing each group to be optimized for its specific function rather than requiring all switches to operate in multiple voltage stages sequentially
2Strength
If switches are connected in multiple stages to maintain high withstand voltage, then voltage resistance is improved, but switching period increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch circuit is segmented into two groups that can be controlled independently. The level shifter circuit generates different control signals for each group, enabling parallel or staggered switching operations that reduce the total switching period while maintaining the voltage handling capability of multiple stages
Solution Approach 2:
The level shifter circuit prepares and generates appropriate control signals in advance for each switch group, ensuring that switching operations are coordinated and optimized rather than occurring sequentially, thereby reducing the overall switching period
Data Source
AI summary
A switch circuit of an embodiment includes a radio-frequency switch and a level shifter circuit. The radio-frequency switch, which includes a first switch group and a second switch group each including a plurality of switches, switches transmission/reception of a radio-frequency signal. The level shifter circuit outputs a first signal for controlling ON/OFF of each switch of the first switch group and a second signal for controlling ON/OFF of each switch of the second switch group.