Type-C Connector Antenna Integration via Segmented Grounding
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Solution Overview
Problem
USB Type-C connectors do not support connection between electronic devices and antennas, limiting the ability to receive wireless communication data, particularly for FM signals required for disaster broadcasts, due to interference issues with high-speed data lines.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a broadcast reception module and a Type-C connector configuration that uses a sideband user (SBU) line and separates the ground (GND) lines to connect an external antenna, allowing for FM signal reception without affecting high-speed USB performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a common ground (GND) is used in a Type-C connector like a 3.5 phi connector, then connection between electronic device and antenna is enabled, but signal disruption occurs due to inductor impact in GND and interference between digital line of FM antenna and FM analog signal of GND
Solution Approach 1:
The ground connection is segmented into two separate ground pins: one ground pin connected to the antenna through an inductor for analog signal grounding, and another ground pin directly connected to GND for digital signal grounding. This segmentation prevents interference between analog and digital signals while maintaining antenna connection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
An inductor is introduced as an intermediary component between the antenna and the ground connection. The inductor acts as a mediator that allows the antenna to be grounded while blocking high-frequency digital signals from interfering with the analog FM reception circuitry.
2Speed
If high-speed Type-C data line is used for accessory device connection, then data transmission speed is improved, but analog characteristics deteriorate due to lack of DC GND
Solution Approach 1:
The ground connection is segmented into separate paths: one path provides DC ground reference for analog circuits through a dedicated ground pin, while another path supports high-speed digital communication through separate ground pins. This segmentation allows both analog and digital functions to operate simultaneously without mutual interference.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the reception of FM signals using a Type-C earphone antenna while maintaining USB Type-C performance and usability by minimizing interference through the use of an SBU line and separated GND lines.
Implementation Method 1
a first ground pin of a Type-C connector is connected to a GND through a bead or an inductor
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device of various embodiments can include a broadcast receiving module, a connector including a first pin and a second pin, and a processor, wherein the processor can be configured to: identify, through the first pin, the type of external electronic device connected through the connector; drive the broadcast receiving module in a state in which an external antenna included in an external electronic device and the broadcast receiving module are electrically connected through the first pin when the external electronic device corresponds to a designated electronic device type; receive a broadcast signal from the external antenna by using the broadcast receiving module; and output, through the second pin, an audio signal generated on the basis of at least a part of the broadcast signal to a designated device. Other embodiments are also possible.