Patent ID: 6294955
Filing Date: 2001-09-25
Classification: H03F

Abstract:
Apparatus for use in disconnecting or replacing one of a plurality of M power amplifier modules in an RF transmitter while the transmitter is operating and wherein each said amplifier module has first and second outputs normally connected across an associated one of M primary windings located on at least one transformer and wherein M secondary windings are provided with said secondary windings being connected together in series across a load; each said amplifier module having a turn on-turn off input for receiving either a turn on signal or not turn on signal for respectively turning on or turning off said module; and an input signal encoder for providing said turn on signals to various of said turn on-turn off inputs of said M power amplifier modules; and each said amplifier module having a control input for receiving a disable signal that disables the amplifier module; said apparatus comprising:a switch having a disable condition and an enable condition;a controller responsive to said switch being in a disable condition for providing a disable signal;a shorting switch having a normal open condition and a shorting condition and wherein said switch is connectable across the said primary winding of an associated said amplifier module to be disconnected; anda shorting switch driver responds to said disable signal for driving said shorting switch to its shorting condition to thereby short circuit the primary winding associated with said amplifier module that is to be disconnected from said transmitter.