Shared-Path Diplexer for Multi-Band Gain Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The implementation of carrier aggregation in RF modules is costly due to the need for parallel receive paths for each supported band, which increases the size and complexity of the RF front end.
Innovation Solution
A diplexer module with a shared receive path using a common transconductance stage and common matching elements, allowing independent gain control for each band, reduces the number of active devices and internal components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If parallel receive paths are implemented for each supported band to support carrier aggregation, then multi-band carrier aggregation capability is improved, but device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple receive paths into a single shared receive path by using a diplexer to combine signals from multiple bands. The diplexer allows signals from different frequency bands to be combined and processed by a common low noise amplifier and transconductance stage, eliminating the need for separate parallel receive paths for each band while maintaining multi-band carrier aggregation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The shared receive path components (low noise amplifier, transconductance stage, and matching elements) are designed to handle multiple frequency bands universally. The diplexer routes signals from different bands to the same amplification and processing circuitry, which is configured to process aggregated signals from multiple bands simultaneously, providing multi-functional capability with single-purpose components.
2Ease of operation
If parallel receive paths are implemented for each supported band, then independent gain control for each band is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple gain control functions into a single transconductance stage that processes aggregated signals from multiple bands. Instead of requiring separate gain control circuits for each band, the shared transconductance stage applies gain control to the combined signal, reducing the number of active devices and simplifying manufacturing while maintaining the ability to control gain for each band through the diplexer's signal routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The transconductance stage and matching elements are designed as universal components that can process signals from multiple frequency bands simultaneously. These components perform the same amplification and impedance matching functions for all bands, eliminating the need for band-specific components and reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Power
If multiple active devices are used in parallel receive paths, then signal amplification for each band is improved, but parasitic loading increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple amplification functions into a single low noise amplifier and transconductance stage that processes combined signals from multiple bands through the diplexer. This consolidation reduces the total number of active devices in the signal path, thereby reducing parasitic loading while maintaining the amplification capability needed for multi-band carrier aggregation through the combined signal processing.
Data Source
AI summary
Diplexers and multiplexers for carrier aggregation are disclosed. In one aspect, a front end for receiving carrier aggregation radio frequency signals includes an antenna switch module configured to receive a first radio frequency signal in a first band and a second radio frequency signal in a second band from an antenna, and a diplexer including a first filter configured to pass the first band, a second filter configured to pass the second band, and a diplexed node between the first and second filters and coupled to the antenna switch module. The front end can further include a main amplifier coupled to the diplexed node of the diplexer and configured to amplify radio frequency signals received from the diplexer, and a transconductance stage coupled to the main amplifier and configured to independently control the gain of the main amplifier for the first band and the second band.