Signal Detection Circuit With Dynamic Attenuator Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies face challenges in accurately measuring transient time and signal power in the non-transmission state of 4G and 5G mobile communications within a single testing environment.
Innovation Solution
A signal detection circuit comprising a first and second switch, an attenuator, a power detector, and a comparator, which can switch between modes to measure transient time and signal power without interference from RF limiters or attenuators, using a control signal to determine operation mode based on signal thresholds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If an attenuator is used to protect circuit components from excessive power, then component protection is improved, but measurement precision of signal power deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic switching between different circuit configurations based on signal power levels. The first switch dynamically connects the attenuator only when the signal exceeds a threshold level, allowing the circuit to adapt between protection mode and measurement mode. This resolves the contradiction by making the attenuator's presence conditional rather than fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement process is segmented into distinct phases: a first measurement phase for transient time without attenuator interference, and a second measurement phase for signal power in non-transmission state with attenuator protection. This segmentation allows each measurement to be performed under optimal conditions, resolving the contradiction between protection and precision.
2Strength
If an RF limiter is used to protect circuit components from excessive power, then component protection is improved, but measurement precision of transient time deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit dynamically switches configurations based on signal characteristics. During transient time measurement, the switch connects the signal path to bypass the RF limiter. During normal operation, the RF limiter is engaged for protection. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by eliminating the RF limiter's interference during critical transient measurements while maintaining protection during steady-state operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement process is divided into separate phases: transient time measurement performed in a first time period without RF limiter interference, and signal power measurement in a second time period with RF limiter protection. This temporal segmentation resolves the contradiction by ensuring each measurement type is performed under its optimal conditions.
3Productivity
If signal power measurement is performed in transmission state, then measurement capability is improved, but component damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit employs dynamic switching controlled by a comparator that monitors signal power levels. When the signal exceeds a safe threshold during transmission state measurement, the switch automatically engages the attenuator to protect components. This dynamic response resolves the contradiction by enabling measurement capability while providing real-time protection against component damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The attenuator serves as an intermediary element that can be inserted into the signal path when needed. It acts as a protective mediator between the high-power test signal and the sensitive measurement circuitry, allowing transmission state measurements to be performed safely by controlling the attenuator's insertion based on signal level.
Data Source
AI summary
A signal detection circuit is provided. The signal detection circuit includes a first switch, a second switch, an attenuator, a power detector, and a comparator. The first switch receives a test signal and a control signal, and determines whether to output the test signal through a first connection port or a second connection port based on the control signal. The second switch receives an attenuated signal or the test signal output through the second connection port based on the control signal. The attenuator receives the test signal and attenuates it for generating the attenuated signal. The power detector receives the attenuated signal or the test signal output through the second connection port, and outputs an analog signal corresponding to a power of the attenuated signal or the test signal output through the second connection port. The comparator receives the analog signal and outputs the control signal.