SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS RELATED TO RF FRONT-END ARCHITECTURES FOR ROAMING SUPPORT USING FILTER BANDWIDTH CONSOLIDATION AND REDUCED FILTER COUNT

A system may include a multiplexer coupled to an antenna. The system may further include a combined band filter circuit coupled to the multiplexer and including a filter having a modified filter bandpass extent to include a frequency range of a roaming band, the combined band filter circuit configured to couple a signal associated with the roaming band to the filter.

BACKGROUND

Field

The present disclosure relates to improving availability or usage of bandwidth for a roaming wireless device configured for use in multiple geographic regions.

Description of the Related Art

Wireless communication devices include many antennas, filters, switches, amplifiers, and other components arranged in a variety of configurations to provide support for different frequency bands. For example, a wireless communication device can include a first antenna and circuitry to support a first frequency band or set of frequency bands, a second antenna and circuitry to support a second frequency band or set of frequency bands, and so on. Typically, a geographic region has a set of frequency bands assigned for wireless communication within the geographic region. In many cases, wireless communication devices include separate antennas and/or circuitry to support frequency bands within the region. Conventional cellular radio-frequency (RF) front-end (FE) architectures include a large number of RF paths which are defined to be band specific based on fixed bandpass filter and duplexers in each fixed frequency path. Such configurations occupy substantial area on wireless communication devices, such as on front-end modules or other components of the devices.

In different regions of the world, different bands are defined and used. These regional bands often may overlap each other. With increasing reliance on wireless (especially cellular) communication and ever-increasing needs for remote working, manufacturers are finding it more important than ever to provide wireless communication devices that can maintain connectivity with regional bands used in different geographic regions. For instance, many wireless communication devices today provide roaming capabilities for connecting to service providers of different geographic regions. Traditionally, the roaming capabilities are supported by adding additional hardware paths for regional bands. However, adding separate paths for each geographic region can be costly and cumbersome for manufacturers who desire to maintain a simple, global design for their wireless communication devices.

SUMMARY

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system including: a multiplexer coupled to an antenna; and a combined band filter circuit coupled to the multiplexer and including a filter having a modified filter bandpass extent to include a frequency range of a roaming band, the combined band filter circuit configured to couple a signal associated with the roaming band to the filter.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system wherein the combined band filter circuit further includes a second filter implemented in a ganged filter configuration with the filter and supports carrier aggregation of a first band associated with the filter and a second band associated with the second filter.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system wherein the combined band filter circuit further includes a band select switch, the band select switch including a plurality of arms that are configured to be controlled simultaneously to support a receive signal path and a transmit signal path of the roaming band.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system wherein the combined band filter circuit further includes a band select switch, the band select switch including a plurality of arms that are configured to be controlled simultaneously to implement a switch-combined configuration that simultaneously couples an input node to a plurality of output nodes.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system wherein the switch-combined configuration combines signal paths from the plurality of output nodes at the input node and is configured to support carrier aggregation at the input node.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system wherein the switch-combined configuration supports carrier aggregation of B2signals and B66signals.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system wherein the modified filter bandpass extent passes B1Tx signals and B2Rx signals.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system wherein the modified filter bandpass extent passes B3Rx signals and B2Tx signals.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system wherein the modified filter bandpass extent passes B1Rx signals and B66Rx signals.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a system wherein the modified filter bandpass extent passes B3Tx signals and B66Tx signals.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a radio-frequency module including: a packaging substrate; a multiplexer implemented on the packaging substrate and coupled to at least one of a primary antenna or a diversity antenna; and a filter system implemented on the packaging substrate and coupled to the multiplexer, the filter system including a filter having a modified filter bandpass extent, the modified filter bandpass extent including a frequency range of a roaming band, the filter system configured to couple a signal associated with the roaming band to the filter.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a radio-frequency module wherein the filter system further includes a second filter implemented in a ganged filter configuration with the filter and supports carrier aggregation of a first band associated with the filter and a second band associated with the second filter.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a radio-frequency module wherein the filter system further includes a band select switch, the band select switch including a plurality of arms that are configured to be controlled simultaneously to support a receive signal path and a transmit signal path of the roaming band.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a radio-frequency module wherein the filter system further includes a band select switch, the band select switch including a plurality of arms that are configured to be controlled simultaneously to implement a switch-combined configuration that simultaneously couples an input node to a plurality of output nodes to support carrier aggregation at the input node.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a radio-frequency module wherein the modified filter bandpass extent passes B1Tx signals and B2Rx signals.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a radio-frequency module wherein the modified bandpass filter extent passes B3Rx signals and B2Tx signals.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a radio-frequency module wherein the modified bandpass filter extent passes B1Rx signals and B66Rx signals.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a radio-frequency module wherein the modified bandpass filter extent passes B3Tx signals and B66Tx signals.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a computer-implemented method including instructions that, when executed by a computing system, causes the computing system to perform steps including: determining, by the computing system, filter bandpass extents of existing filters; modifying, by the computing system, at least one filter bandpass extent of a filter such that a modified filter bandpass extent includes a roaming band frequency range; and configuring, by the computing system, a band select switch to couple a signal path for the roaming band frequency to the filter having the modified filter bandpass extent.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a computer-implemented method further including providing a hardware layout that includes the band select switch, the signal path, and the filter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

Wireless communication devices include many antennas, filters, switches, amplifiers, and other components arranged in a variety of configurations to provide support for different frequency bands. For example, a wireless communication device can include a first antenna and circuitry to support a first frequency band or set of frequency bands, a second antenna and circuitry to support a second frequency band or set of frequency bands, and so on. Typically, a geographic region has a set of frequency bands assigned for wireless communication within the geographic region. In many cases, wireless communication devices include separate antennas and/or circuitry to support frequency bands within the region. Conventional cellular radio-frequency (RF) front-end (FE) architectures include a large number of RF paths which are defined to be band specific based on fixed bandpass filter and duplexers in each fixed frequency path. Such configurations occupy substantial area on wireless communication devices, such as on front-end modules or other components of the devices.

In different regions of the world, different bands are defined and used. These regional bands often may overlap each other. With increasing reliance on wireless (especially cellular) communication and ever-increasing needs for remote working, manufacturers are finding it more important than ever to provide wireless communication devices that can maintain connectivity with regional bands used in different geographic regions. For instance, many wireless communication devices today provide roaming capabilities for connecting to service providers of different geographic regions. Traditionally, the roaming capabilities are supported by adding additional hardware paths for regional bands. However, adding separate paths for each geographic region can be costly and cumbersome for manufacturers who desire to maintain a simple, global design for their wireless communication devices.

The present disclosure is directed to, in part, systems, devices, and techniques that modify filter bandpass extents (e.g., filter definitions) such that the filter frequency ranges of filters are extended. The present disclosure proposes a solution that can simplify circuits, reduce component count, and/or eliminate cost while expanding feature support beyond conventional configurations. As will be described in further detail with illustrations, for example, a wireless communication device may be designed to support Asia region, North America region, and South America region without any additional filter count while supporting carrier aggregation (CA) of some frequency bands.

In some embodiments, the systems and techniques are discussed herein in the context of some mid-range or mid-to-low-range bands including B1, B2, B3, and B66bands for Long-Term Evolution (LTE) telecommunications networks. However, it is noted that the systems and techniques can be applied to a wide variety of bands and their frequencies for a variety of telecommunications networks.

FIG.1illustrates an example radio-frequency device100having various features relevant to certain aspects of the present disclosure in accordance with one or more embodiments. The radio-frequency device100includes an RF module110, a transceiver(s)130, a controller(s)120, a low noise amplifier(s) (LNA(s))140, and an antenna(s)150. The transceiver130can be configured to convert between analog signals and digital signals. The transceiver130can include a digital-to-analog converter, an analog-to-digital converter, a local oscillator for modulating or demodulating a baseband signal to or from a carrier frequency, a baseband processor that converts between digital samples and data bits (e.g., voice or other types of data), and/or other components. The RF module110can perform processing on a signal received from the antenna(s)150or received from the transceiver130. In some embodiments, the RF module110can be referred to as a front-end module (FEM), which can be physically close to the antenna150(e.g., to reduce attenuation to cable loss). The controller120can communicate with the transceiver130and/or the RF module110to facilitate various functionality discussed herein. Although the controller120is illustrated as a separate component, in some embodiments the controller120can be a part of the RF module110.

The RF module110can include a multiplexer(s)112, switching circuitry114, and/or a transmit/receive filter(s)116(Tx/Rx filter116). In some embodiments, the RF module110includes the LNA(s)140, while in other embodiments the LNA(s)140are implemented as a separate component outside the RF module110, such as within another RF module or within another component. The multiplexer112, the switching circuitry114, the filter(s)116, the LNA(s)140, and/or other components discussed herein can be coupled to each other in a variety of manners, such as through a conductive path(s) that can include a cable, a trace, a wire, or any other conductive path/material. Although not illustrated inFIG.1, the RF module110can also include other components, such as attenuators, matching circuits, duplexers, and so on.

The multiplexer112(also referred to as “the N-plexer112”) can be configured to implement multiplexing. The multiplexer112can include a diplexer, triplexer, quadplexer, or any N-plexer. In some examples of performing transmit operations, the multiplexer112can be configured to combine/merge a plurality of signals onto a common path or port (which can be connected to the antenna150). Further, in some examples of performing receive operations, the multiplexer112can be configured to split/sort a signal from a common path or port (which can be connected to the antenna150) into a plurality of signals. In some embodiments, each path or channel can be associated with a frequency band. The multiplexer112can include one or more filters, one or more switches, and/or other components. In one example implementation, the multiplexer112can include a low pass filter that passes frequencies associated with low-range frequency bands, a bandpass filter that passes frequencies associated with mid-range frequency bands, and a high pass filter that passes frequencies associated with high-range frequency bands. In another example implementation, the multiplexer112can be implemented as a diplexer that provides the functionality of a high pass filter and a low pass filter.

The filter(s)116can be configured to filter one or more signals. The filter(s)116can include multiple filters that are configured to support different frequency ranges (e.g., filter signals associated with different frequency bands). For example, the filter(s)116can include one or more Tx filters that are configured to support one or more transmit frequency bands and/or one or more Rx filters that are configured to support one or more receive frequency bands. In some examples of performing transmit operations, the filter(s)116can receive a signal from a power amplifier (PA) or other component, filter the signal, and output the filtered signal to the multiplexer112. Further, in some examples of performing receive operations, the filter(s)116can receive a signal from the multiplexer112, filter the signal, and output the filtered signal to the LNA(s)140. In some embodiments, the filter(s)116includes one or more filters configured to support one more low-range bands (LB), one or more mid-to-low-range bands (MLB), one or more mid-to-high-range bands (MHB), one or more high-range bands (HB), one or ultra-high-range bands (UHB), and so on. Further, in some embodiments, the filter(s)116can be bandpass filters with modified filter bandpass extents such that filter frequency ranges of the filter(s)116are extended to cover multiple Tx and/or Rx frequency band ranges, as discussed in further detail below. In some embodiments, multiple filters116can be implemented in a ganged configuration and/or a switch combined configuration, as discussed in further detail below.

The switching circuitry114can include one or more switches or other circuitry configured to selectively route one or more signals between components of the RF module110. A switch can include a transistor(s), a mechanical switch(s), or any other switch, and/or can include any number of throws/poles. In some embodiments, the switching circuitry114can include a switch (e.g., a band select switch) that is configured to receive a signal from the multiplexer112and selectively route the signal to a particular one of filters116that is associated with a particular frequency band. In some embodiments, the switching circuitry114includes a multi-arm-controlled switch that is configured to enable/disable multiple paths simultaneously, as discussed in further detail below. Additionally, or alternatively, in some embodiments, the switching circuitry114can include one or more switches that are configured to receive one or more signals from the filters116and selectively route a signal to one or more of LNAs140.

The controller120can be configured to generate and/or send control signals to components of the radio-frequency device100. For example, the controller120can send a control signal to the multiplexer112to control sorting or combining of signals, send a control signal to the switching circuitry114to route a signal (e.g., turn on or off a switch), send a control signal to the filter(s)116to enable/disable a filter, and so on. In some embodiments, the radio-frequency device100is configured to implement a plurality of gain modes for different amounts of amplification, and the controller120is configured to send a control signal to the RF module110, the LNA(s)140, and/or a PA to control a gain mode. Each gain mode can be associated with a different amount of amplification. For example, the controller120can provide a control signal indicative of a desired or targeted gain. In some embodiments, the controller120can include control circuitry configured to implement one or more of the operations discussed herein.

The antenna150can include one or more primary antennas and/or one or more diversity antennas. A primary antenna and a diversity antenna can be physically spaced apart such that a signal at the primary antenna and the diversity antenna are received with different characteristics. For example, a primary antenna and a diversity antenna can receive the signal with different attenuation, noise, frequency response, and/or phase shift. The transceiver130can use both of the signals with different characteristics to determine data bits corresponding to the signal. In some implementations, the transceiver130selects between a primary antenna and a diversity antenna based on the characteristics, such as selecting the antenna with the highest signal-to-noise ratio. In some embodiments, the transceiver130combines signals from a primary antenna and a diversity antenna to increase the signal-to-noise ratio of the combined signal. In some embodiments, the transceiver130processes signals to perform multiple-input/multiple-output (MIMO) communication. As noted above, in some embodiments, the diversity antenna can be physically spaced apart from the primary antenna. Here, the diversity antenna can be coupled to the transceiver130by a transmission line, such as a cable, a printed circuit board (PCB) trace, or another component. In examples, the transmission line is lossy and/or attenuates the signal received at the diversity antenna before it reaches the transceiver130.

In some embodiments, the radio-frequency device100can implement a single antenna and/or a single antenna for each RF module. For example, the RF module110can be coupled to a single antenna and be configured to support one or more regional bands as well as one or more roaming bands in a combined manner. Here, the radio-frequency device100can implement a common antenna to support the one or more regional bands and the one or more roaming bands. By implementing a common antenna with a RF module that is configured to implement many frequency bands, including one or more roaming bands, the radio-frequency device100can utilize resources in an efficient manner, in comparison to other solutions that implement a separate antenna and/or RF module for roaming bands.

Further, in some embodiments, the radio-frequency device100can implement multiple RF modules and/or multiple antennas. In one example, the radio-frequency device100can include a first RF module that is coupled to a first antenna and that is configured to support one or more regional bands. Here, the radio-frequency device100can also include a second RF module that is coupled to a second antenna and that is configured to support one or more roaming bands. In another example, the radio-frequency device100implements multiple RF modules that are the same. For example, the radio-frequency device100can include a first RF module that supports one or more frequency bands and a second RF module that supports the same one or more frequency bands. In some cases, the first RF module can be located at a different location on the radio-frequency device100than the second RF module. Such diversity in location can allow the radio-frequency device100to switch between modules and/or antennas to achieve a desired performance characteristic (sometimes referred to as “antenna swapping”).

FIG.2Aillustrates an example conventional system200that includes a regional band filter circuit240and a roaming band filter circuit230in accordance with one or more embodiments. The system200receives and transmits one or more signals (e.g., the system200is implemented to perform one or more receive operations and one or more transmit operations).

The system200includes an antenna202coupled to a multiplexer204. The antenna202includes a primary antenna, a diversity antenna, or any other antenna. The antenna202is configured to receive a signal and/or provide the signal to the multiplexer204. The multiplexer204is configured to receive the signal from the antenna202and sort the signal into a plurality of signals that are associated with a plurality of frequency ranges, respectively. Based on band characteristic (e.g., frequency range) of the sorted signals, the sorted signals is provided to either the roaming band filter circuit230or the regional band filter circuit240. For example, the multiplexer204includes: (i) a first filter that is configured to filter a first signal associated with one or more roaming frequency bands and (ii) a second filter that is configured to filter asecond signal associated with one or more regional frequency bands.

InFIG.2A, a roaming band “B2” is assumed. Further, regional bands are assumed to include “B1” and “B3”. Non-limiting example bands and approximate frequency ranges are shown below in Table 1, which provide:

TABLE 1Tx FrequencyRx FrequencyBandRange (MHz)Range (MHz)B11,920-1,9802,110-2,170B21,850-1,9101,930-1,990B31,710-1,7851,805-1,880B661,710-1,7802110-2200
Although B1, B2, and B3are assumed for the system200, the assumption is for illustrative purpose only and other bands may be selected. Further, it is assumed that other frequency ranges than those shown below may be used.

For the purposes of description, it is assumed that the geographical regions of Asia requires use of bands B1and B3while the geographical regions of North and South Americas requires use of bands B2and B66. As illustrated in a chart250ofFIG.2B, none of the bands B1and B3completely overlaps with the bands B2or B66. Thus, for an Asia-device to be able to remain usable in North and South Americas, the device must provide roaming support for the bands B2or B66. Continuing withFIG.2A, the roaming band filter circuit230is coupled to the multiplexer204. In this example, the roaming band filter circuit230includes a B2Tx filter232and a B2Rx filter234coupled to the multiplexer204. The regional filter circuit240is also coupled to the multiplexer204. The regional filter circuit240includes a B1Tx filter242, B3Tx filter244, B1Rx filter246, and B3Rx filter248.

In the conventional system200, transmission signals can be amplified at a power amplifier210, routed to a band-corresponding filter (e.g., one or more of Tx filters232,242,244) at a band select switch212, routed to the multiplexer204, and transmitted at the antenna202. On the other hand, received signals can be received at the antenna202and sorted at the multiplexer204. Received roaming band signals are routed to B2Rx filter234via a first signal path206, routed to B2LNA214, and eventually routed to a transceiver through a switch220. Received regional band signals are routed to the regional filter circuit240via a second signal path208. The regional filter circuit240includes the B1Tx filter242, B3Tx filter244, B1Rx filter246, and B3Rx filter248. Typically, the filters have bandpass filter extents (e.g., filter definitions) that exactly (or substantially exactly) match frequency ranges of corresponding bands. The multiplexer204can route the sorted received signal to either the B1Rx filter246or the B3Rx filter248, which routes then filtered signal to B1LNA216or B3LNA218, respectively. The switch220can further route signals from the LNAs214,216,218to the transceiver.

FIG.2Billustrates a chart250showing selected bands and their respective bandwidths in accordance with one or more embodiments. In the chart250, X-axis represents bandwidth in megahertz (MHz). Each box252,254,256,258,260,262,264,266represents a specified frequency range for transmit (Tx) or receive (Rx) operation for a band. The chart250is for illustrative purposes only and size of the boxes may not be exactly to the scale.

In the chart250, B2Tx256does not completely overlap with frequency ranges of B1Tx252, B1Rx254, B3Tx260, B3Rx262, B66Tx264, and B66Rx266. A portion of B2Rx256does not completely overlap with B1Tx252(only overlaps over frequency range1,930-1,980but not 1,980-1,990) and, further, the frequency range is reserved for different signal directions. For instance, the frequency range is reserved for Tx operations for B1Tx252while reserved for Rx operations for B2Rx258.

Supporting additional bands incur additional costs. Referring back toFIG.2A, the system200needs to provide a separate set of filters in the roaming band filter circuit230(as shown) in order to support B2roaming band. If the system200is to additionally provide roaming support for the B66band, even more sets of Tx and Rx filters and signal paths (not shown) should be provided in the roaming band circuit230. Accordingly, supporting additional roaming bands can require additional components (e.g., filters, signal traces, switches, or the like) that incur undesirably high cost for manufacturers.

Further, the system200faces challenge in ganging up filters (e.g., filters configured as a ganged filter500ofFIG.5) for better carrier aggregation. The system200may provide a discrete fixed passband duplexer for the B2filters232,234in the roaming band filter circuit230and a ganged filter for the B1, B3filters242,244,246,248in the regional filter circuit240. The regional filter circuit240can support carrier aggregation for B1and B3bands as those bands do not overlap. However, as some but not all portions of B2bands overlap with the B1and B3bands, it can be challenging to gang the filters in the roaming band filter circuit230and the regional filter circuit240without introducing undesirable impedance “suck-outs” and extremely high insertion loss issues (e.g., loss of an amount of energy that a signal loses as it travels along path). Thus, for the system200, it can be challenging to support carrier aggregation with the roaming bands.FIG.3Aillustrates an improved approach that proposes systems and methods that addresses these challenges.

FIG.3Aillustrates an example improved system300that modifies filter bandpass extents and provides roaming capabilities with reduced number of components in accordance with one or more embodiments. The system300receives and transmits one or more signals (e.g., the system300is implemented to perform one or more receive operations and one or more transmit operations). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the system300can be implemented within a radio-frequency module or within a variety of components and/or devices.

The system300can include an antenna302coupled to a multiplexer304. The antenna302can include a primary antenna, a diversity antenna, or any other antenna. The antenna302can be configured to receive a signal and/or provide the signal to the multiplexer304. The multiplexer304can be configured to receive the signal from the antenna302and sort the signal into a plurality of signals that are associated with a plurality of frequency ranges, respectively. Based on band characteristic of the sorted signals, the sorted signals can be provided to a combined band filter circuit330.

In the system300, transmission signals can be amplified at a power amplifier310, routed to a band select switch312, routed to a band-corresponding filter of the combined filter circuit330, routed to the multiplexer304, and transmitted at the antenna302. On the other hand, received signals can be received at the antenna302, routed to and sorted at the multiplexer304, routed to a band-corresponding filter of the combined filter circuit330, routed to a first LNA314(through the band select switch312) and/or a second LNA316, routed to a switch320, and received at a transceiver (not shown). Many variations are possible.

Like the example conventional system200ofFIG.2A, the example improved system300assumes a roaming band “B2” and regional bands “B1” and “B3”. Although B1, B2, and B3are assumed for the system300, the assumption is for illustrative purpose only and the disclosures herein can be applied to other bands to provide various disclosed advantages. For the system300, modified bandpass filter extents for previously presented Tx/Rx frequencies can be modified as shown below in Table 2:

TABLE 2Tx FrequencyRx FrequencyBandRange (MHz)Range (MHz)B11,920-1,990* (1,980)2,110-2,200* (2,170)B21,850-1,9101,930-1,990B31,710-1,7851,805-1,910* (1,880)B661,710-1,7802110-2200
In Table 2, modified bandpass filter extents are denoted with an asterisk (*) and original defined band frequencies are in parentheses. Here, the modified bandpass filter extents expand on corresponding band frequency ranges.

FIG.3Billustrates a modified chart350that visually illustrates modified bandpass filter extents in accordance with one or more embodiments. In the chart350, X-axis represents bandwidth in megahertz (MHz) although different scale may be applicable to other implementations consistent with the present disclosure. Like the chart250ofFIG.2B, each box252,254,256,258,260,262,264,266represents a defined frequency range for Tx or Rx operation for a band. Additionally, the chart350provides modified bandpass filter extents352,354,362that each correspond to the boxes252,254,262, respectively, showing the modified filter extents of Table 2. Here, the modified B1* Tx352indicates expansion of filter bandpass extents on B1Tx252of 1,920-1,980 to 1,920-1,990. The modified B1* Rx354indicates expansion of filter bandpass extents on B1Rx254of 2,110-2,170 to 2,110-2,200. The modified B3* Rx362indicates expansion of filter bandpass extents on B3Rx262of 1,805-1,880 to 1, 805-1,910. The chart350is for illustrative purpose only and size of the boxes may not be exactly to the scale.

Examining the chart350, it is observed that the modified filter bandpass extent B1* Tx352completely includes the B2Rx258. Similarly, the modified filter bandpass extent B3* Rx362completely includes the B2Tx256. Regarding B66band, which will be described in greater detail below, the modified filter bandpass extent B1* Rx354completely includes the B66Rx266. Thus, the modified B1and B3bandpass filter extents352,354,362can completely include the bands B2and B66.

Referring back toFIG.3A, the system300can provide the combined band filter circuit330that employs some or all of the modified filter bandpass extents352,354,362. For instance, a first filter332can have bandpass characteristics of the modified filter bandpass extent B1* Tx352, a second filter334can maintain bandpass characteristics for the B3Tx260, a third filter336can have bandpass characteristics of the modified filter bandpass extent B3* Rx362, and a fourth filter338can have bandpass characteristics of the modified filter bandpass extent B1* Rx354. In some embodiments, the filters332,334,336,338can be a ganged filter (e.g., a ganged filter500ofFIG.5) that can support carrier aggregation.

The filters332,334,336,338can be configured to filter receive signals as well as transmit signals. In contrast with the band select switch212of the example conventional system200inFIG.2Athat only routed transmission signals, the band select switch312of the example improved system300can additionally route received signals. The band select switch312can be a multi-arm-controlled switch (e.g., a multi-arm-controlled switch400ofFIG.4) that can include multiple arms, wherein two or more of the arms are configured to be simultaneously controlled. A first arm of the band select switch312can route transmission signals from the power amplifier310to the first filter332, the second filter334, and/or the third filter336through respective signal paths342,344,346. A second arm of the band select switch312can route received signals from the first filter332, the second filter334, and/or the third filter336to the first LNA314respective signal paths342,344,346. The multi-arm-controlled switch and its structure is described in greater detail with regard toFIG.4. In some embodiments, some transmit or received signals can be directly routed to a signal path without being routed by the band select switch312. For example, received signals for the fourth filter338can be routed directly to the second LNA316.

With its band select switch312that can route both received and transmit signals, the improved system300can use one or more of the filters332,334,336,338for both Tx and Rx operations. For instance, the band select switch312can be configured to deliver signals in B2Tx256(having frequency range of 1,850-1,910) to the third filter336configured to filter signals within the modified bandpass filter extent B3* Rx362(having frequency range of 1,805-1,910). As block270of the chart350illustrates, the modified filter bandpass extent B3* Rx362includes the frequency range of B2Tx256and, thus, the transmission signals in B2Tx256can remain unaffected by the use of the third filter336. In some embodiments, the band select switch312can be configured to receive signals from a selected filter. For instance, the band select switch312can be configured to receive signals in B2Rx258(having frequency range of 1,930-1,990) from the first filter332configured to filter signals within the modified bandpass filter extent B1* Tx352(having frequency range of 1,920-1,990). As block280of the chart350illustrates, the modified filter bandpass extent B1* Tx352includes the frequency range of B2Rx258and the received signals in B2Rx258can remain unaffected by the use of the first filter332.

The example improved system300can be configured to provide roaming support with reduced number of components. In the example conventional system200, a total of six bandpass filters were needed to provide roaming support for B2in addition to B1, B3bands. In the example improved system300, only four bandpass filters are needed to provide B1, B2, and B3bands. More specifically, the first filter332can filter B1Tx252and B2Rx258. The second filter334can filter B3Tx. The third filter336can filter B2Tx256and B3Rx262. The fourth filter338can filter B1Rx254. The reduction of the filter count and other connected circuitry can significantly reduce manufacturing cost in providing roaming support.

The roaming support with modified filter bandpass extents can be applied to other bands, such as B66. As the chart350illustrates, B66Tx264having 1,710-1,780 MHz can readily be included in B3Tx260having 1,710-1,785 MHz. Additionally, a modified filter extent B1* Rx having a frequency range of 2,110-2,200 MHz can include B66Rx having 2,110-2,200 MHz. Here, with the modified filter bandpass extent B1* Rx354, B66roaming support can be obtained essentially free of manufacturing cost. In stark contrast, if the example conventional system200were to be redesigned to support B2and B66support, an entire quadplexer configured to support B2Tx, B2Rx, B66Tx, and B66Rx would be required. The example improved system300reduces component count and cost in other ways as well. As examples, the number of antenna switch module (ASM) switch throws can be reduced and an entire duplexer B2can be eliminated. Further, carrier aggregation can be simplified with ganged filters. For instance, the modified filter bandpass extents do not overlap with one another. Accordingly, corresponding filters can be implemented as a combined filter (e.g., in a ganged configuration) to provide simplified carrier aggregation. Accordingly, the example improved system300can support carrier aggregation of B2and B66bands in approximately half the filter count and hardware component cost. It is noted that the fourth filter338is, with regard to B1, B2, B3, and B66bands, used only for reception of signals (e.g., B1Rx254and B66Rx266). Accordingly, the fourth filter338may not require a connection to the band select switch312but merely a connection to the switch320, thereby reducing complexity of the band select switch312.

FIG.4illustrates an example multi-arm-controlled switch400in accordance with one or more embodiments. The multi-arm-controlled switch400can be configured to be implemented with multiple filters/components to arrange the filters/components in a switch-combined configuration (also referred to as a “flexibly switch-combined architecture”). The multi-arm-controlled switch400includes multiple arms, wherein two or more of the arms are configured to be simultaneously controlled. The multi-arm-controlled switch400includes a first arm412, a second arm414, and a third arm416. The first arm412and the third arm416can be configured to connect an input node402(also referred to as a “pole”) and multiple output nodes406,408, and410(also referred to as “throws”). It is noted that the output nodes406and410can simultaneously be configured as input nodes when used in signal reception. The second arm414can be configured to connect an output node404and multiple input nodes406and410. The multiple arms412,414,416can be controlled by a control signal sent from a controller416. The controller416can select nodes406,408,410for the arms412,414,416based on frequency band(s) of transmit or received signals. For example, the controller416can provide one or more control signals to the multi-arm-controlled switch400to connect the first arm412to the node410, the second arm414to the node406, and the third arm416to the node408. In response to receiving the control signals, the multi-arm-controlled switch400can engage two arms of the multi-arm-controlled switch400(e.g., turn two arms to an ON state) to connect the node402of the first arm412to the node406, the node404of the second arm414to the node410, and the node402of the third arm416to the node408, as illustrated in the example ofFIG.4. As such, the multi-arm-controlled switch400can be a flexibly configured switch that is able to simultaneously engage two or more arms to connect various combinations of components (e.g., filters) that can connect the nodes402,404to the nodes406,408, and410.

In some embodiments, a node may be shared by two or more arms. For example, the third arm416connect the node402to the node408in response to receiving a control signal. As shown, the first arm412and the third arm416can connect the node402to, respectively, the nodes410,408simultaneously. In other words, the multi-arm-controlled switch400can simultaneously join components to a common RF path. The simultaneous connection to the same input node or the same output node can be useful for carrier aggregation (CA). For example, the illustrated connections of the first arm412and the third arm416can aggregate two or more of B2Tx256, B3Tx260, and B66Tx264. Different pairings can provide different carrier aggregation (CA) pairings.

The multi-arm-controlled switch400is described in context of the example improved system300ofFIG.3A. The first arm412can connect a transmission signal from the power amplifier310to the first filter332, the second filter334, or the third filter336. The first filter332has a filter bandpass extent (allows bandpass for a frequency range) of B1* Tx352, the second filter334has a filter bandpass extent of B3Tx260, the third filter336has a filter bandpass extent of B3* Rx362, which completely includes B2Tx256. As shown, the first arm412connects the node402and the node410. Such connection can allow transmission of signals in B2Tx256since the filter bandpass extent B3* Rx362completely includes B2Tx256. Further, as shown, the second arm414connects the node404and the node406. Such connection can allow reception of signals in B2Rx256since the filter bandpass extent B1* Tx352completely includes B2Rx256. Accordingly, the shown configuration can enable the improved system300to repurpose existing filters332,334,336to support roaming band B2Tx/Rx. Various configurations that support different bands, roaming or otherwise, can be possible.

Additionally, as shown, the third arm416can connect the node402to the node408while the first arm412simultaneously connects the same node402to the node410. Such connections can allow simultaneous signal transmission for B2Tx256and B66Tx264as reflected in the charts250,350ofFIGS.2B and3B, respectively. As the charts250,350show, B2Tx/Rx256,258and B66Tx/Rx264,266do not overlap in frequency ranges and, thus, carrier aggregation techniques can be used for the B2and B66bands without the risk of impedance “suck-outs” and extremely high insertion loss.

In some embodiments, the multi-arm-controlled switch400is implemented with one or more transistors. A transistor can be implemented as a single device or multiple devices. A transistor can include a field-effect transistor (FET) (e.g., N-type or P-type device), such as a junction FET (JFET), insulated gate FET (e.g., a metal-oxide-semiconductor FET (MOSFET), a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS), etc.), and so on. Further, a transistor can include a Bipolar junction transistor (BJT) (e.g., an NPN transistor, a PNP transistor, etc.), such as a heterojunction bipolar transistors (HBT), etc. Alternatively, or additionally, in some embodiments, the multi-arm-controlled switch400is implemented with one or more mechanical switches or other types of switches.

FIG.5illustrates example ganged filters500in accordance with one or more embodiments. As illustrated, the ganged filters500includes a filter502combined with a filter504and configured to be associated with a same input node506. That is, the filter502and the filter504are each coupled to the input node506, which forms a common node. In such configuration, a signal that is provided to the input node506can be provided to the filter502and the filter504. As also illustrated, the filter502is coupled to an output node508and configured to provide an output signal to the output node508. Meanwhile, the filter504is coupled to the output node510and configured to provide an output signal to the output node510. In some embodiments, a ganged configuration of filters can refer to the filters being permanently combined. Further, in some embodiments, a set of ganged filters can be referred to as a filter array.

FIG.6illustrates an example flow diagram of a process600to modify filter bandpass extents for roaming bands in accordance with one or more embodiments. The process600can be implemented by any of the components discussed herein, such as a controller, an RF module, or any component of a radio-frequency device. In some embodiments, the process600can be implemented at a computing device external to the radio-frequency device, such any computing system with a software that receives bands to be supported, determines modifiable filter bandpass extents, and provides a modified filter bandpass extents. The software can be further configured to provide a number of hardware components, a layout of the hardware components, and/or an expected cost of the layout.

At602, filter bandpass extents (e.g., filter definitions) of existing filters can be determined. The filter band extents can closely follow known band frequency ranges of currently supported bands.

At604, at least one filter bandpass extent of an existing filter can be modified such that a modified filter bandpass extent completely includes a roaming band frequency range. The roaming band frequency range can be a Tx frequency range, Rx frequency range, or both. For example, a filter bandpass extent of a B3Rx filter can be modified to completely include a roaming band B2Tx frequency range.

At606, a band select switch can be configured to couple a signal path for the roaming band frequency to the filter having the modified filter bandpass extent. The band select switch can be a multi-arm-controlled switch as described in relation toFIG.3AandFIG.4. In some cases, a previously Rx-only signal path that supported an existing filter can be configured to additionally support a Tx signal path for the roaming signal at the existing filter. Continuing with the example above, a signal path that previously supported B3Rx only can be configured to additionally support a B2Tx signal path. Similarly, a previously Tx-only signal path can be configured to additionally support a Rx signal path.

At608, optionally, a hardware layout that includes the band select switch, the signal path, and the filter can be provided. In some embodiments, a number of hardware components in the layout, an expected cost of the layout, an expected cost of implementing the layout, and/or other related information can be provided.

While the process600is described in context of providing support for a roaming band, it is to be understood that any band can be supported based on the present disclosure. In other words, where possible, the present disclosure and the various embodiments within can enable inclusion of any band(s) with modified filter bandpass extents of existing filters. Further, the process600can be implemented as a computer-implemented method.

FIG.7illustrates an example radio-frequency module700in accordance with one or more embodiments. The radio-frequency module700includes a packaging substrate702, a semiconductor die704mounted on the packaging substrate702, a multiplexer706implemented on the semiconductor die704, a roaming band filter circuit708implemented on the semiconductor die704, a band select switch708implemented on the semiconductor die704, and a controller712implemented on the semiconductor die704. The multiplexer706can include any of the multiplexers discussed herein, the combined band filter circuit708can include any of the combined band filter circuits discussed herein, the band select switch708can include any of the band select switches discussed herein, and/or the controller712can include any of the controllers discussed herein. Although the controller712is illustrated as being implemented on the semiconductor die704and the packaging substrate702, the controller712can be implemented on a separate semiconductor die and/or packaging substrate. Similarly, the multiplexer706, the combined band filter circuit708, and the band select switch708can be implemented on separate semiconductor dies and/or packaging substrates.

FIG.8illustrates an example radio-frequency device800in accordance with one or more embodiments. As shown, the radio-frequency device800can include a baseband sub-system802, a transceiver804, a power amplifier (PA) module806, one or more front-end (FE) modules808, one or more antennas810, one or more low noise amplifiers (LNAs)812, a power management system814, a battery816, a memory818, and a user interface820. The baseband sub-system802, the transceiver804, the PA module806, the one or more FE modules808, the one or more antennas810, the one or more LNAs812, the power management system814, the battery816, the memory818, and/or the user interface820can be in communication with each other.

The baseband sub-system802can be connected to the user interface820to facilitate various input and/or output of voice and/or data provided to and/or received from a user. The baseband sub-system802can also be connected to the memory818that is configured to store data and/or instructions to facilitate operation of the radio-frequency device800and/or to provide storage of information for a user.

The transceiver804can generate radio-frequency (RF) signals for transmission and/or process incoming RF signals received from the one or more LNAs812, the one or more antennas810, and/or the one or more FE modules808. The transceiver804can interact with the baseband sub-system802that is configured to provide conversion between data and/or voice signals suitable for a user and/or RF signals suitable for the transceiver804. The transceiver804can also be connected to the power management system814.

The PA module806can include a plurality of PAs that can provide an amplified RF signal to the one or more antennas810, such as via one or more components of the one or more FE modules808. Although four paths are shown as inputs and outputs to the PA module806, and any number of input and/output paths can be implemented.

The one or more FE modules808can include one or more filters822, an antenna switch824, a multiplexer826, and/or a duplexer828. The one or more filters822can include receive (Rx) filters and/or transmit (Tx) filters. In some embodiments, one or more of the one or more filters822are implemented as part of a combined band filter circuit, such as any of the combined band filter circuits discussed herein, which can include one or more switches for routing signals in some examples. The antenna switch824can route a signal to and/or from the one or more antennas810, such as to and/or from other components of the one or more FE modules808. The antenna switch824can include any number of poles and/or throws. In some embodiments, the antenna switch824is implemented as part of a module. The multiplexer826can be configured to implement multiplexing. The duplexer828can allow transmit and/or receive operations to be performed simultaneously using a common antenna. In some embodiments, the one or more FE modules808can route one or more received signals to the one or more LNAs812, which can be configured to amplify the one or more received signals. In some embodiments, the packaged module808is implemented as a front-end module. Although the one or more LNAs812and the PA module806are illustrated as separate components from the one or more FE modules808, in some embodiments the one or more LNAs812and/or the PA module806are part of the one or more FE modules808.

The power management system814can be configured to manage power for operation of the radio-frequency device800. The power management system814can provide power to any number of components of the radio-frequency device800. The power management system814can receive a battery voltage from the battery816. The battery816can be any suitable battery for use in the radio-frequency device800, including, for example, a lithium-ion battery.

The radio-frequency device800can operate with beamforming in certain implementations. For example, the radio-frequency device800can include phase shifters having variable phase controlled by the transceiver804. Additionally, the phase shifters can be controlled to provide beam formation and directivity for transmission and/or reception of signals using the one or more antennas810. For example, in the context of signal transmission, the phases of the transmit signals provided to the one or more antennas810are controlled such that radiated signals from the one or more antennas810combine using constructive and destructive interference to generate an aggregate transmit signal exhibiting beam-like qualities with more signal strength propagating in a given direction. In the context of signal reception, the phases are controlled such that more signal energy is received when the signal is arriving to the one or more antennas810from a particular direction. In some embodiments, the one or more antennas810include one or more arrays of antenna elements to enhance beamforming.

In some embodiments, the radio-frequency device800supports carrier aggregation, thereby providing flexibility to increase peak data rates. Carrier aggregation can be used for both Frequency Division Duplexing (FDD) and Time Division Duplexing (TDD) and can be used to aggregate a plurality of carriers or channels. Carrier aggregation includes contiguous aggregation, in which contiguous carriers within the same operating frequency band are aggregated. Carrier aggregation can also be non-contiguous and can include carriers separated in frequency within a common band or in different bands.

The radio-frequency device800can include a wide variety of devices that are configured to communicate wirelessly. For example, the radio-frequency device800can include a cellular phone, a smart-phone, a hand-held wireless device with or without phone functionality, a wireless tablet, a smart appliance, a smart vehicle, a television, a computer monitor, a computer, a hand-held computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a microwave, a refrigerator, an automobile, a stereo system, a cassette recorder or player, a DVD player, a CD player, a VCR, an MP3 player, a radio, a camcorder, a camera, a digital camera, a portable memory chip, a washer, a dryer, a washer/dryer, a copier, a facsimile machine, a scanner, a multi-functional peripheral device, a wearable device (e.g., a watch), a clock, etc.

The detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The use of the same reference numbers in different figures indicates similar or identical items.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to.” The word “coupled” can refer to two or more elements that may be either directly connected or connected by way of one or more intermediate elements. Components discussed herein can be coupled in a variety of manners, such as through a conductive material. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,” and words of similar import, when used in this disclosure, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where the context permits, words in the above Description using the singular or plural number may also include the plural or singular number respectively.

The above description of embodiments of the disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed above. While specific embodiments, and examples, are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the disclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. For example, while processes or blocks can be presented in a given order, alternative embodiments can perform routines having steps, or employ systems having blocks, in a different order, and some processes or blocks can be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/or modified. Each of these processes or blocks can be implemented in a variety of different ways. Also, while processes or blocks are at times shown as being performed in series, these processes or blocks can instead be performed in parallel or can be performed at different times.

In some embodiments, the methods and/or systems discussed herein can be implemented at least in part by control circuitry and/or memory. For example, memory can store executable instructions that, when executed by control circuitry, cause the control circuitry to perform operations discussed herein. To illustrate, in some embodiments of the process ofFIG.6, a device can include memory and control circuitry, wherein the memory can store executable instructions that, when executed by the control circuitry, cause the control circuitry to perform, at least in part, any of the operations of the process ofFIG.6. Additionally, or alternatively, other methods and/or systems discussed herein can be implemented at least in part with control circuitry and memory storing executable instructions.

Control circuitry can include one or more processors, such as one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more graphics processing units (GPUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), and/or other processing circuitry. Alternatively, or additionally, control circuitry can include one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more program-specific standard products (ASSPs), one or more complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), and/or the like. Control circuitry can be configured to execute one or more instructions stored in memory to thereby perform one or more operations to implement various functionality discussed herein.

Memory can include any suitable or desirable type of computer-readable media. For example, computer-readable media can include one or more volatile data storage devices, non-volatile data storage devices, removable data storage devices, and/or nonremovable data storage devices implemented using any technology, layout, and/or data structure(s)/protocol, including any suitable or desirable computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other types of data. Computer-readable media that may be implemented in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure includes, but is not limited to, phase change memory, static random-access memory (SRAM), dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), other types of random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other non-transitory medium that can be used to store information for access by a computing device. As used in certain contexts herein, computer-readable media may not generally include communication media, such as modulated data signals and carrier waves. As such, computer-readable media should generally be understood to refer to non-transitory media.