Single-SSB RF Frequency Synthesizer for Multi-Band Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-band frequency synthesizers for RF receivers require large circuit areas and high power consumption, generating numerous harmonics that interfere with signal stability and clarity.
Innovation Solution
A frequency synthesizer utilizing a voltage controlled oscillator, polyphase filters, and multiple dividers to generate frequency divided signals, which are then processed by a single side band mixer to produce six frequency synthesized signals covering specific band groups with reduced circuit area and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple SSB mixers and switches are utilized to generate multi-band local signals, then frequency coverage is improved, but circuit area increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single SSB mixer is designed to perform multiple functions by generating both sum and difference frequency components. The mixer can produce multiple local signals (e.g., LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4) from a single input signal through frequency division, eliminating the need for multiple separate mixers and switches while maintaining comprehensive frequency coverage across multiple bands.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines the functions of multiple SSB mixers and switches into a single integrated mixer structure. By merging these components, the system achieves the same multi-band signal generation capability with significantly reduced circuit area, as the single mixer handles what would otherwise require multiple discrete devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple PLLs, VCOs, and DIVs are utilized to generate multi-frequency signals, then frequency synthesis capability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single SSB mixer is designed to generate multiple frequency outputs (LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4) simultaneously from a single input signal. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for multiple separate PLLs, VCOs, and frequency dividers, thereby maintaining comprehensive frequency synthesis capability while significantly reducing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple frequency synthesis functions into a single mixer operation. By combining the roles of multiple PLLs, VCOs, and DIVs into one integrated structure, the system achieves the same frequency synthesis versatility with much lower power consumption, as only one oscillator and one mixer need to operate instead of multiple separate chains.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of harmonics are generated by multiple mixers, then frequency coverage is improved, but signal stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The single SSB mixer design extracts and generates the necessary frequency components more efficiently, producing the required local signals with fewer spurious harmonics compared to multiple cascaded mixers. By taking out the redundant mixing stages, the system maintains comprehensive frequency coverage while improving signal stability and reducing harmonic interference.
Data Source
AI summary
A frequency synthesizing apparatus and method for a multi-band radio frequency (RF) receiver is provided. The frequency synthesizing apparatus includes a simple circuit configuration with a single SSB mixer and thus, may synthesize six high frequency signals. Signals to be inputted into the SSB mixer include a first signal and a second signal. The first signal is generated based on a VCO and a PPF. Also, the second signal is selected from a plurality of frequency divided signals which are generated by dividing a signal generated in the VCO via a plurality of dividers.