Wideband VCO Signal Source With Buffer-Isolated Frequency Extension
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Generating a wideband signal source with low in-band noise is challenging, particularly when integrating a wideband VCO with a ≥2:1 tuning ratio and a programmable divider into a single chip for compact packaging.
Innovation Solution
A wideband signal source system comprising a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO), a buffer, and a programmable frequency extender with multiple frequency dividers, amplifiers, and decoders, which generates a wider frequency band by isolating the output signal from VCO interference and allowing for flexible frequency division and multiplexing to achieve a gapless frequency band.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a wideband VCO with ≥2:1 tuning ratio and programmable divider are integrated into a single chip, then compact packaging is achieved, but in-band noise increases and VCO stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the signal generation system into separate functional modules: a wideband VCO for frequency generation, a buffer for isolation, and a programmable frequency extender for frequency division. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently, preventing noise coupling between components while maintaining compact integration through coordinated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a buffer as an intermediary component between the VCO and the frequency extender. This buffer acts as an isolator that prevents noise and interference from the frequency division circuitry from coupling back into the VCO, thereby maintaining VCO stability while enabling integrated operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If frequency dividers are added to extend bandwidth, then frequency range increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a programmable frequency extender that can dynamically configure multiple frequency dividers based on desired output frequency. The same hardware infrastructure supports multiple division ratios (1/2, 1/4, 1/8, etc.), allowing the system to achieve wideband operation without requiring dedicated circuitry for each frequency range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic control of frequency divider configuration through programmable logic. The system can adaptively enable or disable specific divider stages based on the target frequency, optimizing the signal path for each operating condition and reducing effective complexity during any given operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Present invention relate to a wideband signal source. The wideband signal source comprises a voltage controlled oscillator (VCO), a first buffer and a programmable frequency extender. The VCO outputs a signal with at least N:1 frequency tuning ratio, with N being an integer or a non-integer number larger than 1. The frequency extender receives the signal via the buffer to generate a final output, which has a wider frequency band than the signal. The buffer isolates the final output from interfering VCO for VCO operation stability. The frequency extender comprises at least a 1/N frequency divider, which matches the N:1 frequency tuning ratio of the signal, such that the final output has a gapless frequency band wider than the VCO output signal.