ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT FOR MULTI-BAND TRANSMITTING / RECEIVING

An electronic circuit includes a first inductor connected to an input terminal, a second inductor and a third inductor connected in series to each other and connected in parallel with the first inductor, a first switch connected between the second inductor and the third inductor, and a processor electrically connected to the first switch. The processor may be configured to close the first switch in response to a first request such that a first signal in a first frequency band is output through an output side of the electronic circuit, and to open the first switch in response to a second request, distinct from the first request, such that a second signal in a second frequency band, lower than the first frequency band, is output through the output side.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This U.S. non-provisional application claims priority under 35 USC § 119 to Korean Patent Application Nos. 10-2023-0115738, filed on Aug. 31, 2023, and 10-2023-0134618, filed on Oct. 11, 2023, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Example embodiments relate to an electronic circuit for transmitting and/or receiving signals in different frequency bands.

DISCUSSION OF RELATED ART

Recently developed electronic devices support a plurality of wireless communication technologies to provide users with a variety of services. Since wireless communication technologies use different frequency bands depending on the type, electronic devices include radio-frequency integrated circuits (RFICs) to support a plurality of wireless communication technologies.

With the recent evolution of wireless communications from third generation (3G) and long-term evolution (LTE) to 5G, the frequency bands required for RFICs have increased.

Additionally, Wi-Fi communication technology is evolving to allow electronic devices to connect to wireless local area networks (WLANs). For example, electronic devices support Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 with the development of standards related to Wi-Fi communication technology. As a result, RFICs included in electronic devices support Wi-Fi communication in a 6 GHz band in addition to a 2.4 GHz band and a 5 GHz band.

Accordingly, RFICs may include a plurality of transceivers (sometimes called RF chains), corresponding to each frequency band, to support communications using signals in different frequency bands.

This may lead to an increase in size of an RFIC chip. Additionally, circuit loss may occur due to devices included in each transceiver of the RFIC, which may reduce operating efficiency of the RFIC.

SUMMARY

Example embodiments provide an electronic circuit controlling a switch, connected to an inductor, to transmit or receive signals in different frequency bands.

According to an example embodiment, an electronic circuit includes a first inductor connected to an input terminal, a second inductor and a third inductor connected in series and connected in parallel with the first inductor, a first switch connected between the second inductor and the third inductor, and a processor electrically connected to the first switch. The processor may be configured to close the first switch in response to a first request such that a first signal in a first frequency band is output through an output side of the electronic circuit, and to open the first switch in response to a second request, distinct from the first request, such that a second signal in a second frequency band, lower than the first frequency band, is output through the output side.

According to an example embodiment, a transmitting circuit system including an electronic circuit includes a transmission mixer configured to up-convert a baseband signal, a first transmission circuit configured to receive a signal up-converted from the baseband signal by the transmission mixer, an amplifier configured to amplify a signal output from the first transmission circuit and to output the amplified signal, a second transmission circuit having an output side and receiving an amplified signal from the amplifier, and a processor electrically connected to the first transmission circuit and the second transmission circuit. The first transmission circuit may include a first inductor, a second inductor and a third inductor connected in parallel to the first inductor and connected in series, and a first switch connected between the second inductor and the third inductor. The processor may control the first switch such that signals in different frequency bands are output through the output terminal.

According to an example embodiment, a receiving circuit system includes a first receiving circuit configured to receive a radio-frequency (RF) signal at a receiving terminal, a low-noise amplifier configured to amplify a signal output from the first receiving circuit, a second receiving circuit configured to receive a signal amplified by the low-noise amplifier, a receiving mixer configured to down-convert a signal, output from the second receiving circuit, into a baseband signal, and a processor connected to the first receiving circuit and the second receiving circuit. The first receiving circuit may include a first receiving inductor, a second receiving inductor and a third receiving inductor connected in parallel with the first receiving inductor, and a receiving switch connected between the second receiving inductor and the third receiving inductor, where the second and third receiving inductors are connected in series when the receiving switch is closed. The processor may control the first receiving switch to change inductance of the first receiving circuit such that signals in different frequency bands, received through the receiving terminal, are output through the first receiving circuit.

According to an example embodiment, an electronic circuit includes: a first inductor connected to an input side of the electronic circuit; a second inductor; a switch connected in series with the second inductor, wherein the switch and the second conductor are together connected in parallel with the first inductor; and a processor electrically connected to the switch and configured to: close the switch when a first signal in a first frequency band is input to the electronic circuit, to enable the first signal to be transmitted through an output side of the electronic circuit; and open the switch when a second signal in a second frequency band, lower than the first frequency band, is input at the input side, to enable the second signal to be transmitted through the output side. The first and second inductors have inductances sufficient to improve an impedance match, within the first frequency band and/or the second frequency band, between external circuitry connected to the input side and external circuitry connected to the output side.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1is a block diagram of an electronic circuit system,100, according to an example embodiment. An electronic circuit system100may include an electronic circuit120configured to transmit signals in different frequency bands; a mixer140; an amplifier150; and a processor110.

The electronic circuit system100may include a transmission mixer140that up-converts a baseband signal. For example, the transmission mixer140may up-convert a baseband signal into a radio-frequency (RF) signal with a specified frequency, based on a signal received from a local oscillator.

In addition, the electronic circuit system100may include an electronic circuit120connected to the transmission mixer140.

The electronic circuit120may receive a signal output from the transmission mixer140. For example, the electronic circuit120may receive a signal up-converted from the baseband signal by the transmission mixer140.

The electronic circuit120may function as an impedance matching circuit for impedance matching between circuitry connected to the input side of the electronic circuit120(e.g., the transmission mixer140) and circuitry connected to the output side of the electronic circuit120(e.g., the amplifier150). As compared to a system in which the electronic circuit120does not exist between the transmission mixer140and the amplifier150, impedance matching may be improved in at least one of the frequency bands within which output signals SOUT are transmitted.

For example, the signal output from the transmission mixer140may be converted into a signal in a predetermined frequency band through the electronic circuit120. Also, the signal output from the transmission mixer140may be converted by the transmission mixer140. Furthermore, the electronic circuit120may transmit the signal in the predetermined frequency band to the amplifier150.

The electronic circuit system100may include a processor110, electrically connected to the electronic circuit120.

The processor110may execute software (or a program) to control at least one other component (for example, the electronic circuit120) of the electronic circuit system100, and may process various data processing or computation.

The processor110may include a central processing unit, a microprocessor, or the like, and may control the overall operation of the electronic circuit system100. Accordingly, the operations performed by the electronic circuit system100below may be understood as being performed under the control of the processor110.

According to an example embodiment, the processor110may execute an algorithm for controlling the electronic circuit120. For example, the algorithm may be a software code programmed inside the processor110. For example, the algorithm may be a hard code hard-coded inside the processor110, but example embodiments are not limited thereto.

The processor110may control a switch included in the electronic circuit120based on the algorithm. For example, the processor110may close or open the switch included in the electronic circuit120.

The processor110may control a switch, included in the electronic circuit120, such that the electronic circuit system100transmits output signals SOUT in different frequency bands (e.g., non-simultaneously) at an output terminal OT.

For example, the processor110may close the switch included in the electronic circuit120such that the electronic circuit system100transmits a signal SOUT in a first frequency band at the output terminal OT.

In addition, the processor110may open the switch included in the electronic circuit120such that the electronic circuit system100transmits a signal SOUT in a second frequency band at the output terminal OT.

Accordingly, the electronic circuit system100may transmit signals in different frequency bands through a single transmission structure including the transmission mixer140, the electronic circuit120, and the amplifier150. Analogous circuitry may be provided in accordance with the inventive concept for receive operations within a transceiver, as described below.

As a result, the electronic circuit system100according to an example embodiment may have a significantly reduced area.

Referring toFIG.2A, an electronic circuit120A according to an example embodiment may include a plurality of inductors L1, L2, and L3. The electronic circuit120A illustrated inFIG.2Ais an example of the electronic circuit120ofFIG.1A.

The electronic circuit120A may include a first inductor L1 connected to input terminals IT1 and IT2 (an input side of the electronic circuit120A). An output side of the electronic circuit120A includes output terminals OT1 and OT2. The first inductor L1 may be connected to the transmission mixer140through the first input terminal IT1 and the second input terminal IT2.

The electronic circuit120A may include a second inductor L2 and a third inductor L3 connected in parallel with the first inductor L1. The second inductor L2 and the third inductor L3 may be connected to each other in series (an electrical connection in series is made between them when the first switch S1, described below, is closed).

In addition, the electronic circuit120A may include a first switch S1 connected between the second inductor L2 and the third inductor L3.

According to an example embodiment, the processor110may control the first switch S1, included in the electronic circuit120A, such that a signal in a specified frequency band is output through the output side of the circuit120A, and transmitted at the output terminal OT of the transmitting circuit system100.

For example, the processor110may close the first switch S1 in response to a first request for transmitting a first signal in a first frequency band (for example, about 6 GHZ). (Herein, a “request” acted upon by the processor110is not necessarily a request from an external circuit or source. For instance, a “request” for transmitting the first signal, which request is responded to by the processor110, could be any determination by the processor110that the first signal in the first frequency band is output by the transmission mixer140.) The electronic circuit120A may output the first signal in the first frequency band through its output side while the first switch S1 is closed.

In addition, the processor110may open the first switch S1 in response to a second request for transmitting a second signal in a second frequency band lower than the first frequency band (for example, about 5 GHz). The electronic circuit120may output the second signal in the second frequency band through its output side while the first switch S1 is open.

Referring to the above-described components, the processor110according to an example embodiment may control the first switch S1, included in the electronic circuit120A, to transmit signals having different frequency bands at the output terminal OT.

Accordingly, the electronic circuit system100may transmit signals in different frequency bands through a single transmission structure (or a TX chain) including the transmission mixer140, the electronic circuit120A, and an amplifier150.

As a result, the electronic circuit system100may have a significantly reduced area.

FIG.2Bis a circuit diagram illustrating a configuration in which the electronic circuit ofFIG.2Afurther includes a variable capacitor connected in parallel with a first inductor, andFIG.2Cis a circuit diagram illustrating a configuration in which the electronic circuit ofFIG.2Bfurther includes inductors connected in parallel with a first inductor.

Referring toFIG.2B, an electronic circuit120B may further include a variable capacitor C1 connected to a plurality of inductors L1, L2, and L3. It is noted here that the inductors L1 to L3, as well as the other inductors described herein, may be discrete element inductors (sometimes called lumped elements), which may be smaller in size than distributed inductors formed by open circuit stubs or short circuited stubs.

For example, the electronic circuit120B may include a variable capacitor C1 connected in parallel with the first inductor L1, the second inductor L2, and/or the third inductor L3.

For example, the electronic circuit120B may include a variable capacitor C1 controlled to have a first capacitance, connected in parallel with the first inductor L1 while a first switch S1 is open.

In addition, the electronic circuit120B may include the variable capacitor C1, controlled to have a second capacitance, connected in parallel with the first inductor L1 and connected in parallel with the second inductor L2 and the third inductor L3 while the first switch S1 is closed.

According to an example embodiment, the processor110may control capacitance of the variable capacitor C1, included in the electronic circuit120B, such that a signal in a specified frequency band is transmitted at the output terminal OT.

For example, the processor110may control the capacitance of the variable capacitor C1 such that the variable capacitor C1 resonates with at least one of the inductors connected to the variable capacitor C1.

For example, the processor110may control the capacitance of the variable capacitor C1 to be set to a first capacitance such that the variable capacitor C1 resonates with the first inductor L1, the second inductor L2, and the third inductor L3 while the first switch is closed.

In addition, the processor110may control the capacitance of the variable capacitor C1 to be set to second capacitance, lower than the first capacitance, such that the variable capacitor C1 resonates with the first inductor L1 while the first switch S1 is open.

Referring to the above-described components, the processor110according to an example embodiment may control the capacitance of the variable capacitor C1 based on an inductance value of the electronic circuit120controlled through the first switch S1.

Accordingly, the processor110may significantly reduce the number and/or size of capacitors required in the electronic circuit120to transmit signals in different frequency bands. In addition, the processor110may significantly reduce loss caused by a capacitor included in the electronic circuit120.

As a result, the electronic circuit system100according to an example embodiment may improve power efficiency of an operation for transmitting signals in different frequency bands. In addition, the electronic circuit system100according to an example embodiment may improve the gain of the electronic circuit120B.

Referring toFIG.2C, an electronic circuit120C according to an example embodiment may include a plurality of inductors L2, L3, L4, and L5, connected in parallel with a first inductor L1, and a plurality of switches S1 and S2 connected between the inductors.

The electronic circuit120C illustrated inFIG.2Cmay be understood as an example of the electronic circuit120ofFIG.1.

In addition, the electronic circuit120C illustrated inFIG.2Cmay be understood as further including a plurality of inductors L4 and L5 connected in parallel with the first inductor L1, the second inductor L3, and the third inductor L3, and a second switch S2 connected between the corresponding inductors LA and LA, in the configuration of the electronic circuit120B ofFIG.2B

Therefore, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or substantially the same components, and redundant descriptions will be omitted.

The electronic circuit120C according to an example embodiment may include a fourth inductor LA and a fifth inductor L5 connected in parallel with the first inductor L1. The fourth inductor LA and the fifth inductor L5 may be connected in series.

The electronic circuit120C may further include a second switch S2 connected between the fourth inductor LA and the fifth inductor L5.

According to an example embodiment, the processor110may control at least one of the switches S1 and S2, included in the electronic circuit120C, such that the output signal in a specified frequency band is transmitted through at output terminal OT.

For example, the processor110may close or open at least one of the first switch S1 and the second switch S2 such that a signal in a specified frequency band is transmitted at an output terminal OT.

For example, the processor110may close the first switch S1 included in the electronic circuit120A and open the second switch S2 included in the electronic circuit120A in response to a first request for transmitting a first signal having a first frequency band.

The processor110may transmit a first signal having a first frequency band at the output terminal OT while the first switch S1 is closed and the second switch S2 is open.

In addition, the processor110may close the first switch S1 and the second switch S2 in response to a third request for transmitting a third signal having a third frequency band, higher than the first frequency band.

The processor110may transmit a third signal having a third frequency band at the output terminal OT while the first switch S1 and the second switch S2 are closed.

In addition, the processor110may open the first switch S1 and close the second switch S2 in response to a fourth request for transmitting the fourth signal having the fourth frequency band, higher than the first frequency band and lower than the third frequency band. The processor110may transmit the fourth signal having the fourth frequency band at the output terminal OT while the first switch S1 is open and the second switch S2 is closed.

For example, the sum of inductance of the second inductor L2 and inductance of the third inductor L3 may be referred to as being smaller than the sum of inductance of the fourth inductor LA and inductance of the fifth inductor L5.

In addition, the processor110may open the first switch S1 and the second switch S2 in response to a second request for transmitting a second signal in a second frequency band, lower than the first frequency band. The processor110may transmit a second signal in the second frequency band at the output terminal OT while the first switch S1 and the second switch S2 are open.

However, the number and configuration of inductors connected in parallel with the first inductor L1 are not limited to the above-described examples.

Referring to the above-described components, the processor110according to an example embodiment may control a plurality of switches (for example, the first switch S1 and the second switch S2), included in the electronic circuit120C, to transmit a plurality of signals having different frequency bands at the output terminal OT.

Accordingly, the electronic circuit system100may transmit signals in different frequency bands through a single transmission structure (or a TX chain) including a transmission mixer140, the electronic circuit120C, and an amplifier150.

As a result, the electronic circuit system100may have a significantly reduced area.

FIG.3is a circuit diagram illustrating another example of an electronic circuit included in the electronic circuit system ofFIG.1.

Referring toFIG.3, an electronic circuit120D according to an example embodiment may include inductors L1 and L21, connected to each other, and a plurality of inductors L2, L3, L22, and L23 connected in parallel with each of the inductors L1 and L21

The electronic circuit120D illustrated inFIG.3may be understood as an example of the electronic circuit120ofFIG.1.

In addition, the electronic circuit120D illustrated inFIG.3may be understood as further including a first output side inductor L21, a second output side inductor L22, a third output side inductor L23, and an output side switch S21, in the configuration of the electronic circuit120B ofFIG.2A.

Therefore, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or substantially the same components, and redundant descriptions will be omitted.

According to an example embodiment, the electronic circuit120D may include a first output side inductor L21 electromagnetically coupled to the first inductor L1.

In addition, the electronic circuit120D may include a second output side inductor L22 and a third output side inductor L23 connected in parallel with the first output side inductor L21. The second output side inductor L22 and the third output side inductor L23 may be connected to each other in series.

In addition, the electronic circuit120D may include an output side switch S21 connected between the second output side inductor L22 and the third output side inductor L23.

The electronic circuit120D may function as an impedance matching circuit for impedance matching of a signal transmitted through an output terminal OT. For example, a signal output through a transmission mixer140may be converted into a signal having specified transmission power through the electronic circuit120D.

According to an example embodiment, the processor110may control the first switch S1 and/or the output side switch S21, included in the electronic circuit120D, such that an output signal SOUT is transmitted with specified transmission power.

For example, the processor110may close the first switch S1 in response to a request to increase transmission power of an output signal SOUT.

In addition, the processor110may open the first switch S1 in response to a request to decrease the transmission power of the output signal SOUT.

For example, the processor110may close the first switch S1 in response to a request to transmit a signal with the first transmission power.

In addition, the processor110may open the first switch S1 in response to a request to transmit a signal with second transmission power, lower than the first transmission power.

For example, the processor110may close the first switch S1 to increase the transmission power of the output signal SOUT. In addition, the processor110may open the first switch S1 to decrease the transmission power of the output signal SOUT.

For example, the processor110may open the output side switch S21 in response to a request to increase the transmission power of the output signal SOUT.

In addition, the processor110may close the output side switch S21 in response to a request to decrease the transmission power of the output signal SOUT.

For example, the processor110may open the output side switch S21 to increase the transmission power of the signal transmitted at the output terminal OT. In addition, the processor110may close the output side switch S21 to decrease the transmission power of the output signal SOUT.

For example, the processor110may close the switch S1 and open the output side switch S21 in response to a request to increase the transmission power of the signal transmitted through output terminal OT.

In addition, the processor110may open the first switch S1 and close the output side switch S21 in response to a request to decrease the transmission power of the output signal SOUT.

Referring to the above-described components, the processor110according to an embodiment may control the first switch S1 and/or the output side switch S21, included in the electronic circuit120D, to control the transmission power of the output signal SOUT.

Accordingly, the electronic circuit system100may transmit signals with different transmission powers through a single transmission structure (or a TX chain) including a transmit mixer140, the electronic circuit120D, and an amplifier150.

As a result, the electronic circuit system100according to an example embodiment may have a significantly reduced area.

In addition, the electronic circuit120D may further include an output side variable capacitor C2 connected to the first output side inductor L21, the second output side inductor L22, and the third output side inductor L23.

In this case, the processor110may control capacitance of the output side variable capacitor C2 such that the output side variable capacitor C2 resonates with at least one of the output side inductors L21, L22, and L23 connected to the output side variable capacitor C2.

For example, when the output side switch S21 is open, the processor110may control the capacitance of the output side variable capacitor C2 such that the output side variable capacitor C2 resonates with the first output side inductor L21.

In addition, when the output side switch S21 is closed, the processor110may control the capacitance of the output side variable capacitor C2 such that the output side variable capacitor C2 resonates with the first output side inductor L21, the second output side inductor L22, and the third output side inductor L23.

Referring to the above-described configurations, the processor110according to an example embodiment may control the capacitance of the output side variable capacitor C2 to transmit a signal having a specified frequency, based on the inductance determined by controlling at least one switch.

Accordingly, the processor110may significantly decrease the number and/or size of capacitors required in the electronic circuit120D to transmit signals in different frequency bands. In addition, the processor110may significantly reduce loss caused by capacitors included in the electronic circuit120D.

As a result, the electronic circuit system100according to an example embodiment may improve power efficiency in operation for transmitting signals in different frequency bands.

FIG.4is a circuit diagram illustrating an electronic circuit system including a first transmission circuit and a second transmission circuit according to an example embodiment.

Referring toFIG.4, a transmission circuit system100A according to an example embodiment may include a transmission mixer140, a first transmission circuit121, an amplifier150, and a second transmission circuit122.

The electronic circuit system100A illustrated inFIG.4may be understood as an example of the electronic circuit system100ofFIG.1. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or substantially the same components as described above, and redundant descriptions will be omitted.

The electronic circuit system100A may include the first transmission circuit121connected to the transmission mixer140.

The first transmission circuit121may have substantially the same configuration as the electronic circuit120A illustrated inFIG.2A, the electronic circuit120B illustrated inFIG.2B, or the electronic circuit120C illustrated inFIG.2C.

For example, the first transmission circuit121may include a first inductor L1, connected to the transmission mixer140, and a second inductor L2 and a third inductor L3 connected in parallel with the first inductor L1. In addition, the first transmission circuit121may include a first switch S1 connected between the second inductor L2 and the third inductor L3.

According to an example embodiment, the first transmission circuit121may be referred to as an impedance matching circuit for impedance matching for a signal transmitted from the transmission mixer140. For example, the first transmission circuit121may be referred to as an inter-stage matching circuit, but example embodiments are not limited thereto.

According to an example embodiment, the signal output from the transmission mixer140may be converted into a signal in a predetermined frequency band through the first transmission circuit121.

According to an example embodiment, the processor110may control a switch (for example, a first switch S1), included in the first transmission circuit121, to transmit a plurality of output signals SOUT in different respective frequency bands.

Accordingly, the electronic circuit system100A may transmit signals in different frequency bands through a single transmission structure (or a transmission (TX) chain) including the transmitter mixer140, the first transmitter circuit121, the amplifier150, and the second transmitter circuit122. As a result, the electronic circuit system100may have a significantly reduced area.

In addition, the electronic circuit system100A may include a second transmission circuit122connected to the first transmission circuit121through an amplifier150.

The second transmission circuit122may have substantially the same configuration as the electronic circuit120D illustrated inFIG.3. Therefore, redundant descriptions will be omitted.

For example, referring toFIGS.3and4together, the second transmission circuit122may include a first inductor L1 and a first output side inductor L21 coupled to each other.

In addition, the second transmission circuit122may include a second inductor L2 and a third inductor L3 connected in parallel with the first inductor L1. In addition, the second transmission circuit122may include a second output side inductor L22 and a third output side inductor L23 connected in parallel with the first output side inductor L21.

In addition, the second transmission circuit122may include a first switch S1, connected between the second inductor L2 and the third inductor L3, and an output side switch S21 connected between the second output side inductor L2 and the third output side inductor L23.

According to an example embodiment, the second transmission circuit122may transmit an output signal SOUT in a specified frequency band.

The second transmission circuit122may function as an impedance matching circuit for impedance matching between circuitry connected to the input side of the circuit122(e.g., the amplifier150) and circuitry connected to the output side of the circuit122(e.g., a transmission line including the output terminal OT as a signal conductor, and a ground conductor). For example, the second transmission circuit122may be referred to as an output matching circuit connected to the output terminal OT, but example embodiments are not limited thereto.

According to an example embodiment, a signal output through the amplifier150may be converted into a signal having specified transmission power through the second transmission circuit122.

The processor110may control one or more of the plurality of switches (for example, the first switch S1 and the output side switch S21), included in the second transmission circuit122, to control transmission power of the output signal SOUT.

Accordingly, the electronic circuit system100A may transmit signals having different frequency bands with different transmission powers through a single transmission structure (or, a transmission (TX) chain) including the transmission mixer140, the first transmission circuit121, the amplifier150, and the second transmission circuit122.

As a result, the electronic circuit system100A may have a significantly reduced area.

According to an example embodiment, the first transmission circuit121may have or include substantially the same configuration as the second transmission circuit122.

For example, the first transmission circuit121may have or include substantially the same configuration as the electronic circuit120D illustrated inFIG.3.

For example, the first transmission circuit121may include two inductors coupled to each other. In addition, the first transmission circuit121may include a plurality of inductors, connected in parallel with each of the two inductors coupled to each other, and switches connected between the plurality of inductors.

In addition, according to an example embodiment, the second transmission circuit122may have substantially the same configuration as the first transmission circuit121.

For example, the second transmission circuit122may have substantially the same configuration as the electronic circuit120A illustrated inFIG.2A.

For example, the second transmission circuit122may include an inductor connected to the amplifier150. In addition, the second transmission circuit122may include a plurality of inductors connected in parallel with the inductor connected to the amplifier150. In addition, the second transmission circuit122may include a switch connected between a plurality of inductors.

Referring to the above-described components, the processor110according to an embodiment may control at least a portion of the first transmission circuit121and the second transmission circuit122to transmit output signals SOUT in different frequency bands.

In addition, the processor110may control at least a portion of the first transmission circuit121and the second transmission circuit122to transmit a plurality of output signals SOUT with different transmission powers.

Accordingly, the electronic circuit system100A may transmit signals with different frequencies or different transmission powers through a single transmission structure (or, a transmission (TX) chain) including the transmission mixer140, the first transmission circuit121, the second transmission circuit122, and the amplifier150.

As a result, the electronic circuit system100A according to an example embodiment may have a significantly reduced area.

FIG.5is a block diagram of a receiving circuit system according to an example embodiment.FIG.6is a circuit diagram illustrating an example of a first receiving circuit in the receiving circuit system ofFIG.5, andFIG.7is a circuit diagram illustrating an example of a second receiving circuit in the receiving circuit system ofFIG.5.

Referring toFIGS.5to7together, a receiving circuit system500according to an embodiment may include a first receiving circuit521and a second receiving circuit522to receive signals in different frequency bands. The second receiving circuit522may receive an input signal at an input terminal701and output an output signal at an output side that includes output terminals702and703.

Referring toFIG.5, the receiving circuit system500according to an example embodiment may include a first receiving circuit521, a low-noise amplifier (LNA)551, a second receiving circuit522, and a processor110.

The receiving circuit system500may include the first receiving circuit521receiving an RF signal at a receiving terminal RT. For example, the first receiving circuit521may receive an RF signal through an antenna, connected to the receiving terminal RT, or a radio-frequency front end (RFFE), but example embodiments are not limited thereto.

The first receiving circuit521may function as an impedance matching circuit for impedance matching for the signal received at the receiving terminal RT (herein, “impedance matching for the signal” refers to impedance matching between circuitry at the relevant location, as noted earlier in the discussion of impedance matching in connection withFIG.1). For example, the first receiving circuit521may be referred to as an input matching circuit, but example embodiments are not limited thereto.

The signal received at the receiving terminal RT may be a signal in a predetermined frequency band, and output at an output terminal602. Furthermore, the first receiving circuit521may transmit a signal in a predetermined frequency band to the low-noise amplifier551.

Referring toFIGS.5and6together, the first receiving circuit521according to an embodiment may include a plurality of receiving inductors RL1, RL2, and RL3. The first receiving circuit521ofFIG.6may be understood as an example of the first receiving circuit521ofFIG.5.

For example, the first receiving circuit521may include a first receiving inductor RL1 connected to the receiving terminal RT. For example, the first receiving inductor RL1 may be connected to the receiving terminal RT implemented as a single terminal (which may be a signal conductor of a transmission line).

The first receiving circuit521may include a second receiving inductor RL2 and a third receiving inductor RL3 connected in parallel with the first receiving inductor RL1. The second receiving inductor RL2 and the third receiving inductor RL3 may be connected in series.

In addition, the first receiving circuit521may include a first receiving switch RS1 connected between the second receiving inductor RL2 and the third receiving inductor RL3.

According to an example embodiment, the processor110may control the first receiving switch RS1 such that a signal in a specified frequency band is output through the first receiving circuit521.

For example, the processor110may close the first receiving switch RS1, included in the first receiving circuit521, in response to receiving the first signal in the first frequency band (for example, about 6 GHZ) through a receiving terminal RT.

The processor110may receive a first signal having a first frequency band and output a signal in a specified frequency band while the first receiving switch RS1 is closed.

In addition, the processor110may open the first receiving switch RS1 in response to receiving a second signal in a second frequency band (for example, about 5 GHz), lower than the first frequency band, through the reception terminal RT.

The processor110may receive a second signal having a second frequency band and output a signal in a specified frequency band while the first receiving switch RS1 is open.

According to an example embodiment, the first receiving circuit521may further include a plurality of inductors connected in parallel with the first receiving inductor RL1, the second receiving inductor RL2, and the third receiving inductor RL3.

For example, the first receiving circuit521may include a fourth receiving inductor and a fifth receiving inductor connected in parallel with the first receiving inductor RL1, the second receiving inductor RL2, and the third receiving inductor RL3. In addition, the first receiving circuit521may include a second receiving switch connected between the fourth receiving inductor and the fifth receiving inductor.

In this case, the processor110may control at least a portion of the first receiving switch RS1 and the second receiving switch to receive signals in different frequency bands.

However, the number and configuration of inductors connected in parallel with the first receiving inductor RL1 are not limited to the above-described examples.

Referring to the above-described configuration, the processor110according to an example embodiment may receive signals having different frequency bands. Furthermore, the processor110may control the first receiving switch RS1, included in the first reception circuit521, to receive signals having different frequency bands.

Accordingly, the receiving circuit system500may receive signals in different frequency bands through a single receiving structure (or a receiving (RX) chain) including the first receiving circuit521, the second receiving circuit522, the low-noise amplifier551, and the receiving mixer540.

As a result, the receiving circuit system500may have a significantly reduced area.

In addition, according to an example embodiment, the first receiving circuit521may further include a first receiving capacitor RC1 connected between the first receiving inductor RL1 and ground.

For example, the first receiving circuit521may include a first receiving capacitor RC1 connected to at least a portion of the first receiving inductor RL1, the second receiving inductor RL2, and the third receiving inductor RL3.

For example, the first receiving circuit521may include a first receiving capacitor RC1 connected in series between the first receiving inductor RL1 and the ground while the first receiving switch RS1 is open.

In addition, the first receiving circuit521may include a first receiving capacitor RC1 connected to the first receiving inductor RL1, the second receiving inductor RL2, and the third receiving inductor RL3 while the first receiving switch RS1 is closed.

According to an example embodiment, the processor110may control the capacitance of the first receiving capacitor RC1, included in the first receiving circuit521, such that a signal in the specified frequency band is output through the first receiving circuit521.

For example, the processor110may control the capacitance of the first receiving capacitor RC1 such that the first receiving capacitor RC1 resonates with at least one of the inductors connected to the first receiving capacitor RC1.

For example, the processor110may control the capacitance of the first receiving capacitor RC1 to first capacitance such that the first receiving capacitor RC1 resonates with the first receiving inductor RL1, the second receiving inductor RL2, and the third receiving inductor RL3 while first receiving switch S1 is closed.

In addition, the processor110may control the capacitance of the first receiving capacitor RC1 to second capacitance, lower than the first capacitance, such that the first receiving capacitor RC1 resonates with the first receiving inductor RL1 while the first receiving switch S1 is open.

Referring to the above-described components, the processor110according to an example embodiment may control the capacitance of the first receiving capacitor RC1 based on an inductance value of the first receiving circuit521controlled by the first receiving switch S1.

As a result, the processor110may increase an impedance value of the first receiving circuit521. In addition, the receiving circuit system500according to an example embodiment may improve a frequency gain of the first receiving circuit521.

In addition, the processor110may significantly decrease the number and/or size of capacitors required in the first receiving circuit521to receive signals in different frequency bands. In addition, the processor110may significantly reduce loss caused by the capacitors included in the first receiving circuit521.

As a result, the receiving circuit system500according to an example embodiment may improve power efficiency of an operation for receiving signals in different frequency bands.

Referring toFIGS.5and7together, the second receiving circuit522according to an example embodiment may include inductors, coupled to each other, and a plurality of inductors, respectively connected in parallel with the inductors.

The second receiving circuit522illustrated inFIG.7may be understood as an example of the second receiving circuit522ofFIG.5.

In an example embodiment, the second receiving circuit522may include a receiving inductor L22 and a receiving inductor L23 connected in parallel with a receiving inductor L21. The receiving inductor L22 and the receiving inductor L23 may be connected in series.

In addition, the second receiving circuit522may include a receiving switch RS21 connected between the receiving inductor L22 and the receiving inductor L23.

The second receiving circuit522may further include a receiving inductor L31 coupled to the 2-1-th receiving inductor L21.

In addition, the second receiving circuit522may include a receiving inductor L32 and a receiving inductor L33 connected in parallel to the receiving inductor L31. The receiving inductor L32 and the receiving inductor L33 may be connected in series.

In addition, the second receiving circuit522may include a receiving switch RS31 connected between the receiving inductor L32 and the receiving inductor L33.

The second receiving circuit522may be referred to as an impedance matching circuit for impedance matching for a signal received through the low-noise amplifier551. For example, the second receiving circuit522may be referred to as an inter-stage matching circuit, but example embodiments are not limited thereto.

In an example embodiment, the processor110may control at least a portion of the receiving switch RS21 and the switch RS31, included in the second receiving circuit522, such that the signal received through the receiving terminal RT (or the low-noise amplifier551is output through the second receiving circuit522with specified receiving power.

For example, the processor110may open the receiving switch RS21, included in the second receiving circuit522, in response to receiving a signal with first receiving power through the receiving terminal RT.

In addition, the processor110may close the receiving switch RS21 included in the second receiving circuit522in response to receiving a signal with second receiving power, lower than the first receiving power, through the receiving terminal RT.

For example, the processor110may close the receiving switch RS1 to increase power of the signal output through the second receiving circuit522. In addition, the processor110may open the receiving switch RS21 to decrease the power of the signal output through the second receiving circuit522.

For example, the processor110may open the receiving switch RS31 included in the second receiving circuit522in response to a request to increase the power of the signal output through the second receiving circuit522.

The processor110may close the receiving switch RS31 included in the second receiving circuit522in response to a request to decrease the power of the signal output through the second receiving circuit522.

For example, the processor110may open the receiver switch RS31 to increase the power of the signal output through the second receiving circuit522. In addition, the processor110may close the receiver switch RS31 to decrease the power of the signal output through the second receiving circuit522.

For example, the processor110may close the receiver switch RS21 and open the receiver switch RS31 in response to a request to increase the power of the signal output through the second receiving circuit522.

In addition, the processor110may open the receiver switch RS21 and close the receiver switch RS31 in response to a request to decrease the power of the output signal output SOUT.

Referring to the above-described components, the processor110may control at least a portion of the receiver switch RS21 and the receiver switch RS31 to control the power of the signal output through the second receiving circuit522.

As a result, the receiving circuit system500according to an example embodiment may improve power efficiency of an operation for receiving signals received with different receive power.

The receiving circuit system500may include a receiving mixer configured to down-convert a signal received through the second receiving circuit522.

For example, the receiving mixer540may down-convert the signal received through the second receiving circuit522into a baseband signal based on the signal received from a local oscillator LO.

Referring to the above-described components, the processor110may control at least a portion of the first receiving circuit521and the second receiving circuit522to receive signals with different frequency bands as baseband signals after being converted.

Accordingly, the receiving circuit system500may receive signals in different frequency bands through a single receiving structure (or, an RX chain) including the first receiving circuit521, the second receiving circuit522, the low-noise amplifier551, and the receiving mixer540.

In addition, the processor110may control at least a portion of the first receiving circuit521and the second receiving circuit522to receive different signals, received with different receiving powers, as signals with specified power after being converted.

Accordingly, the receiving circuit system500may receive signals with different powers through a single receive structure (or, an RX chain) including the first receiving circuit521, the second receiving circuit522, and the receiving mixer540.

According to the above-described components, the receiving circuit system500may have a significantly reduced area.

FIG.8is a block diagram of an electronic circuit system according to an example embodiment.

Referring toFIG.8, a electronic circuit system600according to an example embodiment may include a radio-frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)620, a processor110, a radio-frequency front end (RFFE)640, and an antenna610.

The electronic circuit system600may include the RFFE640transmitting or receiving an RF signal through the antenna610.

In some embodiments, the antenna610is an array antenna including a plurality of antenna elements for transmitting and/or receiving. In other embodiments, the antenna610has a single antenna element for transmitting and receiving, or has a first antenna element for transmitting and a second antenna element for receiving.

The antenna610may be implemented as a single antenna transmitting and receiving RF signals of a specified frequency band. For example, the antenna610may include an antenna for transmitting an RF signal and an antenna for receiving an RF signal as components separate from each other.

In an example embodiment, the RFFE640may transmit and/or receive a plurality of RF signals in different frequency bands through the antenna610.

Furthermore, the RFFE640may perform pre-processing on signals received through the antenna610. For example, the RFFE640may pre-process an RF signal received through the antenna610.

To this end, the RFFE640may include a phase shifter, a band pass filter, and/or a switching circuit that are connected to the antenna610.

The RFFE640may transmit an RF signal, received from the antenna610, to the RFIC620. The RFFE640may also transmit an RF signal, transmitted from the RFIC620, to the antenna610.

The electronic circuit system600may include an RFIC620connected between the RFFE640and the processor110.

The electronic circuit system600may include the RFIC620converting a baseband signal into an RF signal or converting an RF signal into a baseband signal.

The RFIC620may convert the RF signal, pre-processed through the RFFE640, into a baseband signal to be processed by the processor110when receiving the RF signal.

For example, the RFIC620may convert the baseband signal, generated by the processor110, into an RF signal of about 700 MHz to about 3 GHz used in a first network (for example, a legacy network) when transmitting the baseband signal.

For example, the RFIC620may convert the baseband signal, generated by the processor110, into an RF signal of the Sub6 band (less than about 6 GHz) used in a second network (for example, a 5G network) when transmitting the baseband signal.

For example, the RFIC620may convert the baseband signal, generated by the processor110, into an RF signal of the 5G Above5 band (about 6 GHz to about 60 GHz) used in a third network (for example, a 5G network) when transmitting the baseband signal.

According to an example embodiment, the RFIC620may include a transceiver that includes a transmission circuit621and a receiver622.

The transmitting circuit621with the processor110illustrated inFIG.8may have the same configuration as the electronic circuit system100A ofFIG.4. Alternatively, the transmission circuit621may have the same configuration as the electronic circuit system100ofFIG.1.

In addition, the receiver622illustrated inFIG.8may have the same configuration as the electronic circuit system500ofFIG.5.

Therefore, the same reference numerals were used to denote the same or substantially the same components, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

In an example embodiment, the processor110may control at least a portion of a first transmission circuit121and a second transmission circuit122of the transmission circuit621to transmit signals in different frequency bands through the antenna610.

For example, the processor110may control at least portion of switches, included in the first transmission circuit121and the second transmission circuit122of the transmission circuit621, to transmit signals in different frequency bands through the antenna610.

In addition, the processor110may control at least a portion of the first transmission circuit121and the second transmission circuit122of the transmission circuit621to transmit signals in different frequency bands through the antenna610with different transmit powers.

As a result, the electronic circuit system600according to an example embodiment may transmit signals in different frequency bands with different transmit powers using a single transmission circuit621.

In addition, the processor110according to an example embodiment may control at least a portion of the first receiving circuit521and the second receiving circuit522of the receiver622to receive signals in different frequency bands through the antenna610.

For example, the processor110may control at least one of the switches included in the first receiving circuit521and the second receiving circuit522of the receiver622to receive signals in different frequency bands through the antenna610.

Accordingly, the electronic circuit system600may receive signals in different frequency bands through a single receiver622including the first receiving circuit521, the second receiving circuit522, and the receiving mixer540.

In addition, the processor110may control at least a portion of the first receiving circuit521and the second receiving circuit522to receive signals with different receive powers.

Thus, the electronic circuit system600may receive signals with different powers through a single receiver622including the first receiving circuit521, the second receiving circuit522, and the receiver mixer540.

According to the above-described components, the electronic circuit system600according to an example embodiment may have a significantly reduced area.

FIG.9is a block diagram of an IoT device including an electronic circuit system according to an example embodiment.

Referring toFIG.9, Internet of Things (IoT) may refer to a network between things using wired or wireless communications. IoT devices may include devices having accessible wired or wireless interfaces and communicating with one or more other devices through the wired or wireless interfaces to transmit or receive data. In IoT devices, accessible interfaces may include wired local area network (LAN), wireless local area network (WLAN) such as Wi-Fi, wireless personal area network (WPAN) such as Bluetooth, wireless universal serial bus (wireless USB), Zigbee, near field communication (NFC), radio-frequency identification (RFID), power line communication (PLC), or a modem communication interface capable of connecting to mobile cellular networks such as 3G, LTE, 4G, or 5G. The Bluetooth interfaces may support Bluetooth low energy (BLE).

For example, an IoT device900may include a communication interface920for communication with an external entity. The communication interface920may be, for example, a wired local area network (LAN), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, PLC, or a modem communication interface capable of connecting to mobile cellular networks such as 3G, LTE, 4G, or 5G.

The communication interface920may include a transceiver and/or a receiver. The communication interface920illustrated inFIG.9may be understood to have substantially the same configuration as the RFIC620ofFIG.8. For example, the communication interface920ofFIG.9may include the transmission circuit621and the receiver622ofFIG.8.

The IoT device900may transmit and/or receive information from and/or to an access point or a gateway through the transmitter and/or the receiver. In addition, the IoT device900may communicate with a user device or another IoT device to transmit and/or receive control information or data of the IoT device900.

The IoT device900may include a processor910performing operations. The processor910illustrated inFIG.9may be referred to as having substantially the same configuration as the processor110illustrated inFIGS.1to8.

According to an example embodiment, the processor910may control at least one switch, included in the communication interface920, such that the IoT device900transmits and/or receives signals in different frequency bands.

The IoT device900may be powered internally by a battery or externally through a power supply. In addition, the IoT device900may include a display940configured to display an internal status or data. A user may control the IoT device900through a user interface (UI) of the display940of the IoT device900. The IoT device900may transmit an internal status and/or data to an external entity through the transmitter, and may receive a control command and/or data from an external entity through the receiver.

The memory930may store control a command code, control data, or user data controlling the IoT device900. The memory930may include at least one selected from a volatile memory and a nonvolatile memory. The nonvolatile memory may include at least one of various memories such as a read only memory (ROM), a programmable ROM (PROM), an electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), an electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), a flash memory, a phase-change RAM (PRAM), a magnetic RAM (MRAM), a resistive RAM (ReRAM), or a ferroelectric RAM (FRAM). The volatile memory may include at least one of various memories such as a dynamic RAM (DRAM), a static RAM (SRAM), or a synchronous DRAM (SDRAM).

The IoT device900may further include a storage device. The storage device may include at least one of nonvolatile media such as a hard disk (HDD), a solid state drive (SDD), an embedded multimedia card (eMMC), and a universal flash storage (USF). The storage device may store user information provided through an input/output unit (I/O)950and a plurality of pieces of sensing information collected through the sensor960.

FIG.10is a block diagram of a mobile terminal,1000, to which an electronic circuit system according to an example embodiment is applied. The mobile terminal1000may include a processor1100, a memory1200, a display1300, and a radio-frequency (RF) module1410. In addition, the mobile terminal1000may further include various components such as a lens, a sensor, or an audio module.

The processor1100may be implemented as a system-on-chip (SoC), and may include a central processing unit (CPU)1110, a RAM1120, a power management unit (PMU)1130, a memory interface (Memory I/F)1140, a display controller (DCON)1150, a modem1160, and a bus1170. The processor1100may further include various IPs. The processor1100may be referred to as “ModAP” as a function of a modem chip is integrated therein, but example embodiments are not limited thereto.

The processor1100illustrated inFIG.10may have substantially the same configuration and functionality as the processor110ofFIGS.1to8.

The CPU1110may control the overall operation of the processor1100and the mobile terminal1000. The CPU1110may control the operation of each component of processor1100. The CPU1110may be implemented as a multi-core processor. The multi-core processor is a computing component having two or more independent cores.

The RAM1120may temporarily store programs, data, or instructions. For example, programs and/or data stored in the memory1200may be temporarily stored in the RAM1120according to the control of the CPU1110or a booting code. The RAM1120may be implemented as a DRAM or an SRAM.

The PMU1130may manage the power of each component of the processor1100. The PMU1130may also determine an operational status of each component of the processor1100, and may control an operation of the component.

The memory interface1140may control the overall operation of the memory1200and may control data exchange between each component of the processor1100and the memory1200. The memory interface1140may write data in the memory1200or read data from the memory1200based on a request of the CPU1110.

The display controller1150may transmit image data to be displayed on the display1300to the display1300. The display1300may be implemented as a flat panel display or a flexible display, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) and an organic light emitting diode (OLED).

The modem1160may modulate data to be transmitted in a wireless environment suitable for wireless communication, and may recover received data. The modem1160may perform digital communication with the RF module1410.

The RF module1400may convert a high-frequency signal, received via an antenna, into a low-frequency signal and provide the low-frequency signal to the modem1160. The RF module1410may convert a low-frequency signal, received from the modem1160, into a high-frequency signal and transmit the high-frequency signal to free space outside the mobile terminal1000via the antenna. The RF module1160may amplify or filter a signal.

The RF module1410illustrated inFIG.10may be referred to as having substantially the same configuration as the electronic circuit system600illustrated inFIG.8. Therefore, the RF module1410may include switches connected to a plurality of inductors.

The processor1100may control an electronic circuit (for example, the electronic circuit120A ofFIG.2A) included in the RF module1410such that the mobile terminal1000transmits and/or receives signals in different frequency bands.

For example, the processor1100may control at least one switch, included in the electronic circuit of the RF module1410, to transmit or receive signals in different frequency bands to or from free space outside of the mobile terminal1000.

As a result, the mobile terminal1000may support broadband communication while reducing power consumption for broadband communication.

As described above, the processor110according to an example embodiment may control a switch, connected to a plurality of inductors in at least one electronic circuit, to transmit signals in different frequency bands.

Accordingly, the electronic circuit system100according to an example embodiment may transmit signals in different frequency bands through a single transmission structure.

In addition, the processor110according to an example embodiment may control a switch, connected to a plurality of inductors in at least one electronic circuit, to receive signals in different frequency bands.

Accordingly, the receiving circuit system500according to an example embodiment may receive signals in different frequency bands through a single receiving structure.

As a result, the electronic circuit system100, the receiving circuit system500, and the electronic circuit system600according to respective example embodiments may each have a significantly reduced area.

In addition, the processor110according to an example embodiment may control capacitance of a variable capacitor based on inductance of the electronic circuit controlled through the switch.

Accordingly, the processor110may significantly decrease the number and/or size of capacitors used in the electronic circuit (e.g., relative to those in related art circuits) to transmit signals in different frequency bands. In addition, the processor110may significantly reduce loss caused by capacitors included in the electronic circuit.

As a result, the transmitting circuit system100according to an example embodiment may improve power efficiency of an operation for transmitting signals in different frequency bands or with different transmission powers.

As set forth above, an electronic circuit according to example embodiments may control a switch, connected to an inductor, to transmit and/or receive signals in different frequency bands.

As a result, the electronic circuit may occupy a significantly reduced area.