Shared DAC Power Control for Multi-Mode Wireless Transmitters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless transmitters face challenges in effectively controlling power for data transmission across different frequencies and modes, particularly in efficiently converting digital signals to analog signals for power control during transmission power ramps and steady-state conditions.
Innovation Solution
The use of a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for converting digital amplitude and power level signals to analog signals in different transmission modes, with a multiplexer and sampling circuit to manage signal selection and power control, allowing for shared silicon area and efficient power management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate DACs are used for amplitude and power level conversion, then signal conversion accuracy is improved, but device complexity and silicon area increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single DAC that can perform multiple functions: converting both amplitude signals and power level signals depending on the transmission mode. The DAC is configured to receive different input signals (amplitude or power level) based on mode selection, eliminating the need for separate dedicated DACs for each function while maintaining conversion accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of separate amplitude DAC and power level DAC into a single unified DAC structure. By combining these conversion functions into one component, the patent reduces silicon area and device complexity while still providing accurate signal conversion for both amplitude and power control operations through mode-dependent configuration.
2Area of stationary object
If a single DAC is shared for both amplitude and power level conversion, then silicon area is reduced, but signal conversion accuracy may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the DAC configuration mode-dependent. The DAC dynamically switches between amplitude conversion mode and power level conversion mode based on transmission requirements. This dynamic reconfiguration ensures that the single DAC maintains optimal conversion accuracy for the specific function being performed, rather than being optimized for a single static function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by optimizing the DAC's conversion characteristics for the specific function being performed in each mode. The DAC is configured with mode-dependent parameters and calibration values that ensure high conversion accuracy whether converting amplitude signals or power level signals, effectively providing locally optimized performance for each function within the single unified structure.
3Productivity
If continuous power control is implemented during transmission, then transmission efficiency is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing power control that operates in discrete transmission modes rather than continuous operation. The system switches between different transmission modes (amplitude mode and power level mode) based on transmission requirements, with the DAC being activated and configured periodically according to mode changes. This reduces energy consumption compared to continuous power control while maintaining transmission efficiency when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments are disclosed relating to power control techniques for wireless transmitters. In an example embodiment, an apparatus is provided that may include a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) adapted to convert a digital amplitude signal to an analog amplitude signal during a first transmission mode and adapted to convert a digital power level signal to an analog power level signal during a second transmission mode.