Split-Branch Multi-Mode Power Amplifier Without RF Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power amplifier systems face challenges in achieving high power added efficiency (PAE) across a range of power levels without compromising linearity and performance, particularly in multiple mode power amplification topologies where low power efficiency improvements come at the expense of high power linearity.
Innovation Solution
A multi-mode power amplifier system that includes high-power, mid-power, low-power, and ultra-low-power modes, with the ability to selectively enable or disable amplifier branches, eliminating the need for an RF switch to avoid impedance mismatch and board layout issues, and utilizing a load insensitive power amplifier structure to maintain performance across different power levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If an RF switch is used to provide ultra-low-power mode, then power consumption is reduced, but impedance mismatch and board layout problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the RF switch from the system entirely, extracting the problematic component that caused impedance mismatch and board layout issues. The ultra-low-power mode is achieved through direct amplifier branch control without requiring a switch, thereby eliminating the source of impedance problems while maintaining low power consumption capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using an RF switch to enable ultra-low-power mode (conventional approach), the patent inverts the approach by directly controlling amplifier branches to achieve the same low power state. This reversal eliminates the need for the RF switch and its associated problems while maintaining the ability to provide ultra-low-power operation.
2Use of energy by moving object
If multiple power amplification paths are implemented to improve PAE at low power levels, then power added efficiency is improved, but linearity at higher power levels deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power amplification function into multiple independent amplifier branches that can be selectively activated. Each branch is optimized for specific power levels, allowing the system to segment the overall power range into distinct operating zones. This segmentation enables each branch to maintain optimal linearity and efficiency characteristics for its designated power level range.
Solution Approach 2:
Different amplifier branches are designed with different characteristics optimized for specific power levels. Low-power branches are optimized for high efficiency at low power, while high-power branches are optimized for linearity at higher power levels. This local optimization ensures that each branch performs its best in its designated operating range, resolving the contradiction between efficiency and linearity.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-mode power amplifier includes a high-power mode amplifier circuit, a mid-power mode amplifier circuit, and a low power amplifier circuit, where the low-power mode amplifier circuit comprises a plurality of independently selectable power cell/amplifier branches. The multi-mode power amplifiers selectively enable or disable amplifier branches to provide multiple levels of amplification. Selectively enabling certain of a plurality of split collector amplifier branches provides multiple low power and ultra-low power amplifier modes without the impedance mismatch or board layout problems associated with an RF switch.