Electronic device with antenna

An electronic device includes a first antenna radiator configured to transmit or receive a signal of a first frequency band and a signal of a second frequency band, a second antenna radiator configured to transmit or receive the signal of the second frequency band, a matching circuit mismatched with the second antenna radiator in the first frequency band and matched with the second antenna radiator in the second frequency band, a radio frequency circuit electrically connected to the first antenna radiator and the second antenna radiator, and a processor configured to control the RF circuit such that the signal of the second frequency band is transmitted or received through the first antenna radiator and the second antenna radiator in a multi-input multi-output mode or such that the signal of the first frequency band is transmitted or received through the first antenna radiator in a single input single output mode.

The present application is related to and claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(a) of a Korean patent application filed on Feb. 20, 2016 in the Korean Intellectual Property Office and assigned Serial number 10-2016-0020121, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to a technique capable of improving the efficiency of a plurality of antennas included in an electronic device.

BACKGROUND

Wireless communication technology may enable various types of information, such as a text, an image, a video, audio, and the like, to be transmitted and/or received. Such wireless communication technology has been developed to transmit and receive much more information at a higher rate. As wireless communication technology is developed, a communicable electronic device such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, and the like, may provide a service using a communication function such as digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB), global positioning system (GPS), Wi-Fi, long-term evolution (LTE), near field communication (NFC), magnetic stripe transmission (MST), and the like. The electronic device may include at least one antenna to provide such a service. The electronic device may transmit and receive a signal through at least two multi-input and multi-output (MIMO) antennas.

The electronic device may transmit and receive a signal in a MIMO mode or a single input single output (SISO) mode. When the electronic device transmits and/or receives a signal in the SISO mode, the performance of an antenna transmitting and/or receiving the signal may be deteriorated due to an influence of another antenna which may be together used to transmit and receive a signal in the MIMO mode.

SUMMARY

To address the above-discussed deficiencies, it is a primary object to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an electronic device with an antenna, which is capable of preventing the performance from being deteriorated when a MIMO mode switches to a SISO mode.

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device includes a first antenna radiator that transmits or receives a signal of a first frequency band and a signal of a second frequency band, a second antenna radiator that transmits or receives the signal of the second frequency band, wherein at least a part of the second antenna radiator is arranged to be coupled with the first antenna radiator and includes a pattern having an electrical length corresponding to the first frequency band, a matching circuit electrically connected to the second antenna radiator, wherein the matching circuit is mismatched with the second antenna radiator in the first frequency band and is matched with the second antenna radiator in the second frequency band, a radio frequency (RF) circuit electrically connected to the first antenna radiator and the second antenna radiator, and a processor that controls the RF circuit such that the signal of the second frequency band is transmitted or received through the first antenna radiator and the second antenna radiator in a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) mode or such that the signal of the first frequency band is transmitted or received through the first antenna radiator in a single input single output (SISO) mode.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device includes a first antenna radiator that transmits or receives a signal of a first frequency band and a signal of a second frequency band, a second antenna radiator that transmits or receives the signal of the first frequency band and the signal of the second frequency band, wherein the second antenna radiator includes a first pattern having an electrical length corresponding to the first frequency band, and a second pattern having an electrical length corresponding to the second frequency band, and the first pattern is arranged to be coupled with the first antenna radiator, a tuning pattern electrically connected to the second antenna radiator, a radio frequency (RF) circuit electrically connected to the first antenna radiator and the second antenna radiator, and a processor that controls the tuning circuit such that the second antenna radiator is matched in the first frequency band when the RF circuit transmits or receives the signal of the first frequency band through the first antenna radiator and the second antenna radiator in a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) mode, and such that the second antenna radiator is mismatched in the first frequency band when the RF circuit transmits or receives the signal of the first frequency band through the first antenna radiator in a single-input single-output (SISO) mode.

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device includes a housing including a first surface facing a first direction, a second surface facing a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a side surface surrounding at least a part of a space between the first surface and the second surface, a first elongated conductive member defining a first part of the side surface and having a first end, a second elongated conductive member defining a second part of the side surface and having a second end adjacent to the first end, a non-conductive member defining a third part of the side surface and inserted between the first end and the second end, a first conductive pattern arranged inside of the housing to be closer to the first elongated conductive member than the second elongated conductive member, a second conductive pattern arranged inside of the housing to be closer to the second elongated conductive member than the first elongated conductive member, and a wireless communication circuit electrically connected to the first elongated conductive member and the first conductive pattern to transmit and/or receive a signal of a first frequency band, and/or electrically connected to the first conductive pattern and the second conductive pattern to transmit and/or receive a signal of a second frequency band higher than the first frequency band, wherein the second conductive pattern includes an elongated conductive part and is adjacent to the second elongated conductive member.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The terms, such as “first”, “second”, and the like used herein may refer to various elements of various embodiments of the present disclosure, but do not limit the elements. For example, “a first user device” and “a second user device” indicate different user devices regardless of the order or priority. For example, without departing the scope of the present disclosure, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element.

An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one or more of smartphones, tablet personal computers (PCs), mobile phones, video telephones, electronic book readers, desktop PCs, laptop PCs, netbook computers, workstations, servers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable multimedia players (PMPs), motion picture experts group (MPEG-1 or MPEG-2) audio layer 3 (MP3) players, mobile medical devices, cameras, or wearable devices. According to various embodiments, the wearable device may include at least one or more of an accessory type (e.g., watches, rings, bracelets, anklets, necklaces, glasses, contact lens, or head-mounted-devices (HMDs), a fabric or garment-integrated type (e.g., an electronic apparel), a body-attached type (e.g., a skin pad or tattoos), or an implantable type (e.g., an implantable circuit).

According to various embodiments, the electronic device may be a home appliance. The home appliances may include at least one or more of, for example, televisions (TVs), digital versatile disc (DVD) players, audios, refrigerators, air conditioners, cleaners, ovens, microwave ovens, washing machines, air cleaners, set-top boxes, TV boxes (e.g., Samsung HomeSync™, Apple TV™, or Google TV™), game consoles (e.g., Xbox™ and PlayStation™), electronic dictionaries, electronic keys, camcorders, electronic picture frames, and the like.

According to another embodiment, the photographing apparatus may include at least one or more of medical devices (e.g., various portable medical measurement devices (e.g., a blood glucose monitoring device, a heartbeat measuring device, a blood pressure measuring device, a body temperature measuring device, and the like), a magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a computed tomography (CT), scanners, and ultrasonic devices), navigation devices, global navigation satellite system (GNSS), event data recorders (EDRs), flight data recorders (FDRs), vehicle infotainment devices, electronic equipment for vessels (e.g., navigation systems and gyrocompasses), avionics, security devices, head units for vehicles, industrial or home robots, automatic teller's machines (ATMs), points of sales (POSs), or internet of things (e.g., light bulbs, various sensors, electric or gas meters, sprinkler devices, fire alarms, thermostats, street lamps, toasters, exercise equipment, hot water tanks, heaters, boilers, and the like).

According to an embodiment, the electronic device may include at least one or more of parts of furniture or buildings/structures, electronic boards, electronic signature receiving devices, projectors, or various measuring instruments (e.g., water meters, electricity meters, gas meters, or wave meters, and the like). According to various embodiments, the electronic device may be one of the above-described devices or a combination thereof. An electronic device according to an embodiment may be a flexible electronic device. Furthermore, an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may not be limited to the above-described electronic devices and may include other electronic devices and new electronic devices according to the development of technologies.

FIG. 1illustrates an example antenna included an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 1, an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a first antenna110and a second antenna120. The first antenna110may include a first antenna radiator111, a first feeding unit112, and a first ground unit113. The second antenna120may include a second antenna radiator121, a second feeding unit122, a second ground unit123, and a matching circuit130.

The first antenna radiator111may transmit and receive a signal of a first frequency band and a signal of a second frequency band. For example, the first frequency band may include a band of 2.4 GHz to 2.8 GHz. For example, the second frequency band may include a band of 5 GHz to 5.8 GHz. The first antenna radiator111may transmit and receive a signal of the first frequency band or the second frequency band in a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) mode together with the second antenna radiator121. The first antenna radiator111may transmit and receive a signal of the first frequency band or the second frequency hand in a single-input single-output (SISO) mode. The first antenna radiator111may be electrically connected to the first feeding unit112and the first around unit113.

The first antenna radiator111may be arranged to be adjacent to the second antenna radiator121. The first antenna radiator111may be coupled with the second antenna radiator121. Due to the coupling with the second antenna radiator121, the resonance property of the first antenna radiator111in the first frequency band and/or the second frequency band may be changed. Specifically, in the case that the first antenna radiator111transmits and/or receives a signal of the first frequency band in the SISO mode, due to the coupling with the second antenna radiator121, the efficiency of the first antenna radiator111for the first frequency band may be deteriorated.

The second antenna radiator121may transmit and receive a signal of the second frequency band. The second antenna radiator121may transmit and receive a signal of the first frequency band and a signal of the second frequency band. The second antenna radiator121may transmit and receive a signal of the first frequency band or the second frequency band in the MIMO mode together with the first antenna radiator.111. While the first antenna radiator111transmits and/or receives the signal of the first frequency band or the second frequency band in the SISO mode, the second antenna radiator121may be in an idle state. The second antenna radiator121may be electrically connected to the second feeding unit122and the second ground unit123.

The matching circuit130may be electrically connected to the second antenna radiator121. The matching circuit130may be interposed between the second feeding unit122and the second antenna radiator121or may be interposed between the second ground unit123and the second antenna radiator121. For example, the matching circuit130may include a tunable circuit component such as a switch, a tuner, a variable capacitor, or the like. According to an embodiment, the matching circuit130may be configured to allow the second antenna radiator121to be impedance-mismatched in the first frequency band. If the impedance of the second antenna radiator121is matched in the first frequency band, for example, if the first antenna radiator111transmits and receives a signal of the first frequency band in the SISO mode, due to the coupling with the second antenna radiator121, the efficiency of the first antenna radiator111may be deteriorated in the first frequency band. The influence of the second antenna radiator121on the first antenna radiator111may be reduced in the first frequency band by connecting the matching circuit130, which is configured to be mismatched with the second antenna radiator121in the first frequency band, to the second antenna radiator121, and thus, the efficiency of the first antenna radiator111may be prevented from being deteriorated.

Hereinafter, the detailed structures of the first antenna radiator111and the second antenna radiator121will be described in detail with reference toFIGS. 2 and 3.

FIGS. 2A and 2Billustrate an example structure of an antenna included in an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 2A, an electronic device according to an embodiment may include the first antenna radiator111including a first metal frame111aand a conductive pattern111b. the first feeding unit112, the first ground unit113, the second antenna radiator121including a first pattern121a, and a second pattern121b, a second metal frame140, a third metal frame150, and a support member160. The electronic device may include a first surface facing a first direction, a second surface facing a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a side surface surrounding at least a part of a space between the first surface and the second surface.

The first antenna radiator111may include the first metal frame111a, which is a part of the metal frames111a,140and150, and the conductive pattern111belectrically connected to the first metal frame111a.

The first metal frame (or the first conductive member)111amay define a first part of the side surface of the electronic device and may have a first end. The first metal frame111amay extend lengthily along the side surface of the electronic device. For example, the first metal frame111amay be arranged on a right end of the electronic device. The first metal frame111amay be a part of a side surface of a housing of the electronic device. The first metal frame111amay be spaced apart from the second metal frame140. An insulating member may be interposed between the first metal frame111aand the second metal frame140. The first metal frame111amay include one or more flanges. The flange of the first metal frames111amay be electrically connected to the first feeding unit112and the first ground unit113, respectively.

Part B of the first metal frame111aand part A of the conductive pattern111bmay be electrically connected to each other. For example, the first metal frame111aand the conductive pattern111bmay be electrically connected to each other through a conductive member such as a C-clip.

The conductive pattern (or a first conductive pattern)111bmay be formed on the support member160. The conductive pattern111bmay be arranged inside of the housing of the electronic device to be closer to the first metal frame111athan the second metal frame140. When the support member160is coupled at a specific position, the conductive pattern111bmay be electrically connected to the first metal frame111a. The conductive pattern111bmay be arranged below a black matrix area of a display included in the electronic device.

The first antenna radiator111may be configured to transmit or receive a Wi-Fi signal of 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz. According to an embodiment, the first antenna radiator111may be configured to have a resonance frequency higher than a frequency in the first frequency band. Due to the limitation in the size of the electronic device, when a target frequency is low, the first antenna radiator111may have a resonance frequency higher than the target frequency. For example, when the first antenna radiator111is intended to transmit and receive a Wi-Fi signal, the first antennal radiator111may be configured to have resonance frequencies of about 2.6 GHz and about 5 GHz. The first antenna radiator111may be configured to transmit and receive various signals such as a cellular signal, a Bluetooth signal, a GPS signal, an NFC signal, an MST signal, and the like, as well as the Wi-Fi signal.

The second antenna radiator (or the second conductive pattern)121may include the first pattern121aand the second pattern121b. The second antenna radiator121may be arranged to be adjacent to the conductive pattern111bsuch that the second antenna radiator121is coupled to the first antenna radiator111. The second antenna radiator121may be formed on the support member160. When the support member160is coupled at the specific position, the second antenna radiator121may be electrically connected to the second feeding unit and the second ground unit (not shown) through part C. The first pattern121aand the second pattern121bmay be arranged below the black matrix area of the display.

The second antenna radiator121may be configured to transmit or receive a Wi-Fi signal of 5 GHz. The second antenna radiator121may be configured to transmit and receive various signals such as a cellular signal, a Bluetooth signal, a GPS signal, an NFC signal, an MST signal, and the like, as well as the Wi-Fi signal. The second antenna radiator121may be coupled with the second metal frame140configured to transmit or receive a Wi-Fi signal of 2.4 GHz. The resonance frequency of the second antenna radiator121may be higher or lower than 5 GHz. The resonance frequency of the second antenna radiator121may be changed into 5 GHz by coupling with the second metal frame140.

The second antenna radiator121may include a conductive part (the first pattern121a) elongated to be adjacent to the second metal frame140. The first pattern121amay have an electrical length corresponding to the first frequency band. The first pattern121amay be coupled with the conductive pattern111b. For example, the first pattern121amay be formed in a C-shape. The first pattern121amay extend in a direction opposite to that of the second metal frame140to be longer than the second metal frame140, so that the first pattern121ais adjacent to the second metal frame140. The first pattern121amay exert an influence on the characteristics of the first antenna radiator111in the first frequency band. According to an embodiment, the first pattern121amay exert an influence on the resonance frequency of the first antenna radiator111in the first frequency band. For example, when the resonance frequency of the first antenna radiator111is 2.6 GHz and the first pattern121aand the first antenna radiator111are coupled with each other, the resonance frequency of the first antenna radiator111may be changed into 2.4 GHz. The first pattern121amay transmit or receive a signal of the first frequency band. Alternatively, the first pattern121amay be arranged to change the characteristics of the first antenna radiator111without transmitting or receiving a signal.

The second pattern121bmay have an electrical length corresponding to the second frequency band. The second pattern121bmay extend in a direction different from that of the first pattern121a. For example, the second pattern121bmay be formed in an L shape. The second pattern121bmay transmit or receive a signal of the second frequency band.

The second metal frame (or the second conductive member)140may define a second part of the side surface of the electronic device and may have a second end adjacent to the first end of the first metal frame111a. A non-conductive member (not shown) may be inserted between the first metal frame111aand the second metal frame140. The second metal frame140may be elongated along the side surface of the electronic device. The second metal frame140may be arranged on an upper end or a lower end of the electronic device. The third metal frame150may be arranged on a left end of the electronic device. The second metal frame140and the third metal frame150may be parts of the side housing of the electronic device. The second metal frame140and/or the third metal frame150may serve as an antenna radiator. The second metal frame140may be configured to transmit or receive a signal of 2.4 GHz.

Referring toFIG. 2B, the support member160may be coupled at specific positions on the first metal frame111a, the second metal frame140and the third metal frame150. When the support member160is coupled at the specific position, the first metal frame111aand the conductive pattern111bmay be electrically connected to each other through a conductive member such as a C-clip. A circuit board190may be arranged below the support member160. The circuit board190may include (communication) ports191and192which may serve as the feeding unit. For example, the (communication) ports191and192may be electrically connected to the antenna radiators111and121formed on the support member160through a conductive member such as a C-clip. For example, a first port191may feed electric power to the first antenna radiator111, and a second port192may feed electric power to the second antenna radiator121. The first port191and the second port192may be electrically connected to an RF circuit (e.g., the RF circuit170ofFIG. 4).

FIGS. 3A to 3Cillustrate an example structure of an antenna included in an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 3A, an electronic device may include the second antenna120. The second antenna120may include the second antenna radiator121including the first pattern121aand the second pattern121b, the second feeding unit122, the second ground unit123, and the matching circuit130.

The second antenna radiator121may be electrically connected to the second feeding unit122and the second ground unit123. The second antenna radiator121may be connected to the second feeding unit122and the second ground unit123through part C depicted inFIG. 2.

The matching circuit130may be electrically connected to the second antenna radiator121. As shown inFIG. 3, the matching circuit130may be arranged on a path in which the second antenna radiator121and the second feeding unit122are connected to each other, or a path in which the second antenna radiator121and the second ground unit123are connected to each other. Although not shown inFIG. 3, the matching circuit130may be arranged at a position at which the second antenna radiator121, the second feeding unit122, and the second ground unit123meet each other.

According to an embodiment, the matching circuit130may be configured to be mismatched with the second antenna radiator121in the first frequency band and to be matched with the second antenna radiator121in the second frequency band. The matching circuit130may be tuned to be matched with the second antenna radiator121in the first frequency band and to be matched with the second antenna radiator121in the second frequency band. The matching circuit130may have fixed impedance. In this case, the second antenna radiator121fails to transmit a signal of the first frequency band and may transmit and receive a signal of the second frequency band. The second antenna radiator121may transmit and receive a signal of the second frequency band together with the first antenna radiator111(e.g., the first antenna radiator111inFIGS. 1 and 2). The second antenna121may be in an idle state while the first antenna radiator transmits and/or receives a signal of the first frequency hand. Even if the matching circuit130is mismatched with the second antenna radiator121in the first frequency band, the first pattern121amay exert an influence on the characteristics of the first antenna radiator in the first frequency band.

According to an embodiment, the matching circuit130may be a tuning circuit. For example, the matching circuit130may include at least one or more of a switch, a tuner, or a variable capacitor. In a case that the matching circuit130includes the switch, the switch included in the matching circuit130may be controlled to be switched off or on. When the matching circuit130includes the tuner, the impedance of the tuner included in the matching circuit130may be controlled. When the matching circuit130includes the variable capacitor, the capacitance of the variable capacitor included in the matching circuit130may be controlled.

According to an embodiment, when a signal of the first frequency band is transmitted or received through the first antenna radiator in the SISO mode, the matching circuit130may be controlled such that the second antenna radiator121is controlled to be mismatched in the first frequency band and to be matched in the second frequency band. When a signal of the first frequency band is transmitted or received through the first antenna radiator in the SISO mode, the first pattern121ahaving the electric length corresponding to the first frequency band may prevent the first antenna radiator from transmitting or receiving the signal. Thus, the impedance of the match circuit130may be tuned to allow the second antenna radiator121to be mismatched in the first frequency band.

According to an embodiment, the matching circuit130may be controlled such that the bandwidth or efficiency of the first antenna radiator is increased in the first frequency band. The first pattern121ahaving the electrical length corresponding to the first frequency band may exert an influence on the bandwidth or efficiency of the first antenna radiator in the first frequency band. In this case, the influence of the first pattern121aon the first antenna radiator may be changed by the impedance of the matching circuit130. Thus, the impedance of the matching circuit130may be tuned to increase the bandwidth or efficiency of the first antenna radiator in the first frequency band.

According to an embodiment, when a signal of the first frequency band is transmitted or received through the first antenna radiator and the second antenna radiator in the MIMO mode, the matching circuit130may be controlled such that the second antenna radiator121is matched in the first frequency band. If the second antenna radiator121is not matched in the first frequency band, the signal of the first frequency band may not be transmitted or received through the second antenna radiator121. Thus, when a signal of the first frequency band or a signal of the second frequency band is transmitted or received through both the first antenna radiator and the second antenna radiator in the MIMO mode, the matching circuit130may be tuned such that the second antenna radiator is matched in the first frequency band.

Referring toFIG. 3B, the matching circuit130ofFIG. 3Amay include at least one circuit device or more.

For example, referring to (a) ofFIG. 3B, the matching circuit130may be arranged on a connecting path between the second antenna radiator121and the second feeding unit122to each other. The matching circuit130may include a switch231a, a first device232a, and a second device233a.

The first device232aand the second device233amay have mutually different impedances. The first device232aand the second device233amay have resistance components, inductance components, and/or capacitance components. The first device232aand the second device233amay include variable resistors, variable inductors, and/or variable capacitors. The variations in the resistance components, the inductance components, and/or the capacitance components of the first device232aand the second device233amay exert influences on the bandwidths or efficiencies of the second antenna radiator121and/or the antenna radiator (e.g., the first antenna radiator111ofFIG. 2A) coupled with the second antenna radiator121.

The switch231amay selectively connect the second antenna radiator121to the first device232aor the second device233a. As the switch231aoperates, the resonance frequency of the second antenna radiator121may be changed. For example, when the second antenna radiator121is connected to the first device232a, the second antenna radiator121is matched in the first frequency band. When the second antenna radiator121is connected to the second device233a, the second antenna radiator121may be mismatched in the first frequency band.

As another example, referring to (b) ofFIG. 3B, the matching circuit130may be arranged on the path of connecting the second antenna radiator121and the second ground unit123aor123bto each other. The matching circuit130may include a switch231b, a first device232h, and a second device233b. The configurations of the switch231b, the first device232b, and the second device233bmay be the same as those of the switch231a, the first device232a, and the second device233a, respectively.

As still another example, referring to (c) ofFIG. 3B, the matching circuit130may be arranged on the path of connecting the second antenna radiator121and the second ground unit123to each other. The matching circuit130may include a switch231cand a device232c.

The device232cmay have impedance. The device232cmay include have a resistance component, an inductance component, and/or a capacitance component. The device233cmay include a variable resistor, a variable inductor, and/or a variable capacitor. The variations in the resistance component, the inductance component, and/or the capacitance component of the device233cmay exert influences on the bandwidths or efficiencies of the second antenna radiator121and/or the antenna radiator (e.g., the first antenna radiator111ofFIG. 2A) coupled with the second antenna radiator121.

The switch231cmay electrically connect the second antenna radiator121to the device232c. As the switch231coperates, the resonance frequency of the second antenna radiator121may be changed. For example, when the second antenna radiator121is connected to the device232c, the second antenna radiator121is mismatched in the first frequency band. When the second antenna radiator121is connected to the device233c, the second antenna radiator121may be matched in the first frequency band.

Referring toFIG. 3C, the matching circuit may include a plurality of circuit devices.

For example, referring to (a) ofFIG. 3C, the matching circuit330may include four devices331,332,334and3310, four switches333,336,338and339, and two variable capacitors335and337. Each of the four devices331,332,334and3310may include a resistance component, an inductance component, and/or a capacitance component. The four switches333,336,338and339may switch on or off circuits. The capacitances of the two variable capacitors335and337may vary. For example, node ‘a’ may be connected to the second antenna radiator121ofFIG. 3A, and node ‘b’ may be connected to the second feeding unit122or the second ground unit123. As another example, node ‘b’ may be connected to the second antenna radiator121ofFIG. 3A, and node ‘a’ may be connected to the second feeding unit122or the second ground unit123.

The first device331and the second device332may be connected in series to each other between node ‘a’ and node ‘b’. The first switch333may be connected in parallel to the first device331and the second device332between the first device331and the second device332. The third device334may be connected in series to the first switch333. The first variable capacitor335may be connected in parallel to the first device331and the second device332between the first device331and the second device332. The second switch336may be connected in parallel to the second device between node ‘a’ and the second device332. The second variable capacitor337may be connected in series to the second switch336. The third switch338may be connected in parallel to the second device332and may be connected to one terminal of the second switch336. The fourth switch339may be connected in parallel to the second device332between node ‘a’ and the second device332. The fourth device3310may be connected in series to the fourth switch339.

The operations of the four switches333,336,338and339or the variations in the capacitances of the two capacitors335and337may exert influences on the bandwidths or efficiencies of the second antenna radiator121and/or the antenna radiator (e.g., the first antenna radiator111ofFIG. 2A) coupled with the second antenna radiator121. In addition, the operations of the four switches333,336,338and339or the variations in the capacitances of the two capacitors335and337may exert an influence on the resonance frequency of the second antenna radiator121.

As another example, referring to (b) ofFIG. 3C, the matching circuit430may include a switch431and three devices432,433and434. The switch431may switch on or off a circuit. Each of the three devices432,433and434may include a resistance component, an inductance component, and/or a capacitance component. For example, node ‘a’ may be connected the second antenna radiator121ofFIG. 3A, and node ‘b’ may be connected to the second feeding unit122or the second ground unit123ofFIG. 3A. As another example, node ‘b’ may be connected to the second antenna radiator121ofFIG. 3A, and node ‘a’ may be connected to the second feeding unit122or the second ground unit123ofFIG. 3A.

The switch431may be connected to node ‘a’ and node ‘b’. The first device432, the second device433, and the third device434may be connected in parallel to each other. One ends of the first device432, the second device433, and the third device434may be connected to the switch431, and other ends of the first device432, the second device433, and the third device434may be connected to the ground unit. As the switch431is operated, the first device432, the second device433, and the third device434may be selectively connected to the node ‘a’ and node ‘b’.

The operation of the switch431may exert an influence on the bandwidths or efficiencies of the second antenna radiator121and/or the antenna radiator (e.g., the first antenna radiator111ofFIG. 2A) coupled with the second antenna radiator121. In addition the operation of the switch431may exert an influence on a resonance frequency of the second radiator121.

FIG. 4illustrates an example configuration of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 4, an electronic device100may include the first antenna radiator111, the second antenna radiator121, a radio frequency (RF) circuit, and a communication processor180.

The first antenna radiator111and the second antenna radiator121may transmit and receive a signal to and from a repeater200. The first antenna radiator111and the second antenna radiator121may transmit and receive a signal to and from a (MIMO) repeater200or a (SISO) repeater200. For example, the repeater200may be one of various repeaters200such as a base station, a Wi-Fi access point, and the like.

The matching circuit may be electrically connected to the second antenna radiator121. The matching circuit may be a device having a fixed impedance or a device, such as a switch, a tuner, a variable capacitor, and the like, which may be controlled by the communication processor180.

The RF circuit170may be a wireless communication circuit. The RF circuit170may include a Wi-Fi communication circuit supporting the 2.4 GHz band and the 5 GHz band.

The RF circuit170may be electrically connected to the first antenna radiator111and the second antenna radiator121. The RF circuit170may be connected to the second antenna radiator121through the matching circuit. Although not shown inFIG. 4, a matching circuit for the first antenna radiator111may be provided between the RF circuit170and the first antenna radiator111.

The RF circuit170may transmit a control signal for controlling the matching circuit130to the matching circuit130. For example, the RF circuit170may transmit a signal for controlling a switch included in the matching circuit130to the matching circuit130.

The RF circuit170may transmit and receive a signal through the first antenna radiator111and/or the second antenna radiator121. For example, the RF circuit170may electrically connected to the first metal frame111aand the conductive pattern111bto transmit and/or receive a signal of a first frequency (e.g., 2.4 GHz). As another example, the RF circuit170may be electrically connected to the conductive pattern111band/or the second antenna radiator121to transmit and/or receive a signal of a second frequency (e.g., 5 GHz) higher than the first frequency. The signal processed by the RF circuit170may be radiated through the first antenna radiator111and/or the second antenna radiator212to an outside. The RF circuit170may receive a signal from an outside through the first antenna radiator111and/or the second antenna radiator121.

The communication processor180may be electrically connected to the RF circuit170. The communication processor180may control the RF circuit170. The communication processor180may control the matching circuit130. The communication processor180may transmit a control signal to the matching circuit130to control the match circuit130. For example, the communication processor180may transmit a signal for controlling the switch included in the matching circuit130to the matching circuit130.

According to an embodiment, the communication processor180may control the RF circuit170such that a signal of the first frequency band or the second frequency band is transmitted or received through the first antenna radiator111and the second antenna radiator121in the MIMO mode. For example, when the communication with the repeater200is in a smooth state or the traffic of the repeater200is low, the communication processor180may control the RF circuit170such that the signal is transmitted and/or received to and from the repeater200in the MIMO mode.

According to an embodiment, the communication processor180may control the RF circuit170such that a signal of the first frequency band or the second frequency band is transmitted or received through the first antenna radiator111in the SISO mode. For example, when the communication state with the repeater200is not smooth or the traffic of the repeater200is high, the communication processor180may control the RF circuit170such that the signal is transmitted and/or received to and from the repeater200in the SISO mode.

According to an embodiment, when the RF circuit170transmits or receives a signal of the first frequency band through the first antenna radiator111and the second antenna radiator121in the MIMO mode, the communication processor180may control the matching circuit such that the second antenna radiator121is matched in the first frequency band. When the second antenna radiator121is not matched in the first frequency band, the signal of the first frequency band may be transmitted or received through the second antenna radiator121. Thus, when the signal of the first frequency band is transmitted or received in the MIMO mode, the communication processor180may tune the matching circuit such that the second antenna radiator121is matched in the first frequency band. For example, the communication processor180may tune the matching circuit to allow the match circuit to have specific impedance such that the matching circuit is matched together with the second antenna radiator121in the first frequency band.

According to an embodiment, when the RF circuit170transmits or receives a signal of the first frequency band through the first antenna radiator111in the SISO mode, the communication processor180may control the matching circuit such that the second antenna radiator121is mismatched in the first frequency band. When the signal of the first frequency band is transmitted and/or received through the first antenna radiator111in the SISO mode, the transmission or reception through a pattern (e.g., the first pattern121aofFIG. 3) having an electrical length, which corresponds to the first frequency band and is included in the second antenna radiator121, may be obstructed. Thus, when the signal of the first frequency band is transmitted or received through the first antenna radiator111in the SISO mode, the communication processor180may tune the matching circuit such that the second antenna radiator121is mismatched in the first frequency band. For example, the communication processor180may tune the matching circuit to allow the match circuit to have specific impedance such that the match circuit is mismatched together with the second antenna radiator121in the first frequency band.

According to an embodiment, when a signal of the first frequency band is transmitted or received through the first antenna radiator111in the SISO mode, the communication processor180may control the matching circuit such that the resonance frequency of the first antenna radiator111is changed. The first antenna radiator111may have a resonance frequency higher than a target resonance frequency due to the limitation to the size of the electronic device100. The pattern (e.g., the first pattern121aofFIG. 3) included in the second antenna radiator121and the matching circuit may exert an influence on the resonance frequency of the first antenna radiator111when being coupled with the first antenna radiator111. The communication processor180may tune the matching circuit to allow the matching circuit to have specific impedance such that the resonance frequency of the first antenna radiator111is reduced. For example, when the first antenna radiator111transmitting and/or receiving a Wi-Fi signal has a resonance frequency of about 2.6 GHz, the communication processor180may tune the matching circuit such that the resonance frequency of the first antenna radiator111is changed to about 2.4 GHz.

According to an embodiment, the communication processor180may control the RF circuit170based on information about a communication state received from the repeater200communicating with the electronic device100, such that a signal of the first frequency band is transmitted or received through at least one or more of the first antenna radiator111or the second antenna radiator121in the MIMO mode or the SISO mode. A method of controlling the RF circuit170based on the information about the communication state will be described in detail with reference toFIG. 6.

FIG. 5illustrates an example graph of efficiency over frequency of an antenna included in an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The graph illustrates the efficiencies of a first antenna and a second antenna according to a comparative example and the efficiencies of a first antenna (e.g., the first antenna110) and a second antenna (e.g., the second antenna120) according to an embodiment. The efficiencies of the antenna according to the comparative example to a first frequency f1and a second frequency f2, and the efficiencies of the antenna according to an embodiment to the first frequency f1and the second frequency f2may be confirmed through the graph. An electronic device according to a comparative example includes the second antenna impedance-matched to the first frequency f1. An electronic device (e.g., the electronic device100) according to an embodiment includes the second antenna (e.g., the second antenna120) impedance-mismatched to the first frequency f1.

Referring toFIG. 5, since the second antenna according to the comparative example is matched to the first frequency f1, the second antenna may have a resonance frequency corresponding to the first frequency f1. The first antenna according to the comparative example may have a resonance frequency higher than the first frequency f1. The first antenna according to the comparative example may have a low efficiency at the first frequency f1due to the second antenna matched to the first frequency f1. Thus, when a signal of the first frequency f1is transmitted and/or received through the first antenna according to a comparative example in the SISO mode, the communication efficiency may be low.

To the contrary, since the second antenna (e.g., the second antenna120) according to an embodiment is mismatched to the first frequency f1, the second antenna may not resonate at the first frequency f1. Thus, the second antenna according to an embodiment may not transmit and receive a signal of the first frequency f1. Since the first antenna (e.g., the first antenna110) according to an embodiment resonates at a low frequency compared to an electrical length of the first antenna due to the coupling with the second antenna, the first antenna may have a resonance frequency corresponding to the first frequency f1and the bandwidth may be enlarged at the first frequency f1. Since the second antenna mismatched to the first frequency f1does not obstruct the transmission and reception of the signal of the first frequency f1, the first antenna according to an embodiment may have a high efficiency at the first frequency f1.

FIG. 6illustrates a flowchart a method for controlling an antenna of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The flowchart illustrated inFIG. 6may include operations processed by the electronic device100depicted inFIGS. 1 to 4. Thus, even though omitted in the following description, the contents concerning the electronic device100described with reference toFIGS. 1 to 4may be also applied to the flowchart illustrated inFIG. 6.

According to an embodiment, the electronic device (e.g., the communication processor180)100may control the RF circuit based on the information about the communication information received from the repeater200communicating with the electronic device100, such that the signal of the first frequency band is transmitted or received through at least one or more of the first antenna110or the second antenna120in the MIMO mode or the SISO mode.

Referring toFIG. 6, in operation610, the electronic device (e.g., the communication processor180)100may transmit or receive the signal of the first frequency band by using the first antenna110and the second antenna120in the MIMO mode. The electronic device100may transmit or receive the signal of the first frequency band through both the first antenna110and the second antenna120at the same time. In this case, the matching circuit130included in the electronic device100may be tuned such that the second antenna120is matched in the first frequency band. The electronic device100may transmit or receive the signal of the second frequency band through the first antenna110and the second antenna120in the MIMO mode.

In operation620, the electronic device (e.g., the communication processor180)100may receive the information about the communication state from the repeater200. For example, the electronic device100may receive the information about the communication state through the first antenna110and/or the second antenna120from the repeater200such as a base station, a Wi-Fi access point, and the like. For example, the information about the communication state may include information, on the basis of which it is known whether the communication through the repeater200is smooth, such as information about the traffic of the repeater200.

In operation630, the electronic device (e.g., the communication processor180)100may determine, based on the information about the communication state, whether the communication is in a smooth state. For example, when the traffic of the repeater200is greater than a specific value, the electronic device100may determine that the communication is heavy. When the traffic of the repeater200is less than the specific value, the electronic device100may determine that the communication is smooth. When it is determined that the communication is smooth, the electronic device100may transmit or receive a signal in the MIMO mode.

When the communication is heavy, the electronic device100(e.g., the communication processor180) may transmit or receive a signal of the first frequency band through the first antenna110in the SISO mode in operation640. When the electronic device100transmits or receives the signal of the first frequency band only through the first antenna110, the second pattern included in the second antenna120may exert an influence on the first antenna110. The electronic device100may perform operation650to prevent the second pattern included in the second antenna120from deteriorating the efficiency of the first antenna110.

In operation650, the electronic device the communication processor180)100may control the matching circuit130such that the second antenna120is mismatched in the first frequency band. The electronic device100may tune the matching circuit130to allow the second antenna120to be mismatched in the first frequency band such that the second antenna120is prevented from exerting an influence on the transmission or reception of the signal of the first frequency band.

Although it is illustrated inFIG. 6that the operation650is performed after the operation640is performed, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the electronic device100may perform the operation640after performing the operation650.

FIG. 7is a graph illustrating total radiation efficiency over frequency of an antenna included in an electronic device according to an embodiment.

A graph illustrated in (a) ofFIG. 7illustrates total radiation efficiencies over frequency of the first antenna and the second antenna included in an electronic device according to a comparative example. The electronic device according to a comparative example includes a second antenna of which impedance is matched to a frequency of 2400 MHz. The first antenna according to the comparative example may transmit and receive signals of 2400 MHz and 5000 MHz. The second antenna according to the comparative example may transmit and receive a signal of 5000 MHz.

Referring to (a) ofFIG. 7, the first antenna according to the comparative example has the total radiation efficiency of about −12 dB at 2400 MHz. The second antenna according to the comparative example has the total radiation efficiency of about −12 dB at 2400 MHz. The first antenna, which has the total radiation efficiency of about −12 dB at 2400 MHz, may not efficiently transmit or receive a signal of 2400 MHz. Lower total radiation efficiency may be required to transmit or receive a signal of 2400 MHz through the first antenna.

A graph illustrated in (b) ofFIG. 7illustrates total radiation efficiencies over frequency of the first antenna (e.g., the first antenna110) and the second antenna (e.g., the second antenna120) included in an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device100) according to an embodiment. The electronic device according to the embodiment includes the second antenna (e.g., the second antenna120) of which an impedance is mismatched to a frequency of 2400 MHz. The first antenna according to the embodiment may transmit and receive a signal of 2400 MHz and 5000 MHz. The second antenna according to the embodiment may transmit and receive a signal of 5000 MHz.

Referring to (b) ofFIG. 7, the first antenna according to the embodiment has the total radiation efficiency of about −8 dB at 2400 MHz. The second antenna according to the embodiment has the total radiation efficiency of about −10 dB at 2400 MHz. Since the impedance of the second antenna is mismatched at 2400 MHz, the total radiation efficiency of the first antenna may be improved by about 4 dB or more at 2400 MHz. The electronic device according to the embodiment may smoothly transmit or receive a signal of 2400 MHz through the first antenna of which the total radiation efficiency is improved.

FIG. 8illustrates an example graph of a reflection coefficient over frequency of an antenna included in an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

A graph illustrated in (a) ofFIG. 8illustrates the reflection coefficients over frequency of the first antenna and the second antenna included in an electronic device according to a comparative example. The electronic device according to a comparative example includes a second antenna of which impedance is matched to a frequency of 2400 MHz. The first antenna according to the comparative example may transmit and receive signals of 2400 MHz and 5000 MHz. The second antenna according to the comparative example may transmit and receive a signal of 5000 MHz.

Referring to (a) ofFIG. 8, the first antenna according to the comparative example has a reflection coefficient of about −7 dB at 2400 MHz. The second antenna according, to the comparative example has a reflection coefficient of about −4 dB at 2400 MHz. The first antenna, which has the reflection coefficient of about −7 dB at 2400 MHz, may not efficiently transmit or receive a signal of 2400 MHz. A lower reflection coefficient may be required to transmit or receive a signal of 2400 MHz through the first antenna.

A graph illustrated in (b) ofFIG. 8illustrates the reflection coefficients over frequency of the first antenna (e.g., the first antenna110) and the second antenna (e.g., the second antenna120) included in an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device100) according to an embodiment. The electronic device according to the embodiment includes the second antenna (e.g., the second antenna120) of which an impedance is mismatched to a frequency of 2400 MHz. The first antenna according to the embodiment may transmit and receive signals of 2400 MHz and 5000 MHz. The second antenna according to the embodiment may transmit and receive a signal of 5000 MHz.

Referring to (b) ofFIG. 8, the first antenna according to the embodiment has a reflection coefficient of about −13 dB at 2400 MHz. The second antenna according to the embodiment has a reflection coefficient of about −13 dB at 2400 MHz. Since the impedance of the second antenna is mismatched at 2400 MHz, the reflection coefficient of the first antenna may be lowered by about 6 dB or more at 2400 MHz. The electronic device according to the embodiment may smoothly transmit or receive a signal of 2400 MHz through the first antenna of which the reflection coefficient is lowered.

FIG. 9illustrates an example electronic device in a network environment, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 9, according to various embodiments, an electronic device901,902, or904or a server906may be connected with each other over a network962or a local area network964. The electronic device901may include a bus910, a processor920, a memory930, an input/output interface950, a display960, and a communication interface970. According to an embodiment, the electronic device901may not include at least one or more of the above-described elements or may further include other element(s).

For example, the bus910may interconnect the above-described elements910to970and may be a circuit for conveying communications (e.g., a control message and/or data) among the above-described elements.

The processor920may include one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), or a communication processor (CP). For example, the processor920may perform an arithmetic operation or data processing associated with control and/or communication of at least other elements of the electronic device901.

The memory930may include a volatile and/or nonvolatile memory. For example, the memory930may store instructions or data associated with at least one other element(s) of the electronic device901. According to an embodiment, the memory930may store software and/or a program940. The program940may include, for example, a kernel941, a middleware943, an application programming interface (API)945, and/or an application program (or “an application”)947. At least a part of the kernel941, the middleware943, or the API945may be called an “operating system (OS)”.

For example, the kernel941may control or manage system resources (e.g., the bus910, the processor920, the memory930, and the like) that are used to execute operations or functions of other programs (e.g., the middleware943, the API945, and the application program947). Furthermore, the kernel941may provide an interface that allows the middleware943, the API945, or the application program947to access discrete elements of the electronic device901so as to control or manage system resources.

The middleware943may perform a mediation role such that the API945or the application program947communicates with the kernel941to exchange data.

Furthermore, the middleware943may process task requests received from the application program947according to a priority. For example, the middleware943may assign the priority, which makes it possible to use a system resource (e.g., the bus910, the processor920, the memory930, or the like) of the electronic device901, to at least one or more of the application program947. For example, the middleware943may process the one or more task requests according to the priority assigned to the at least one, which makes it possible to perform scheduling or load balancing on the one or more task requests.

The API945may be, for example, an interface through which the application program947controls a function provided by the kernel941or the middleware943, and may include, for example, at least one interface or function (e.g., an instruction) for a file control, a window control, image processing, a character control, or the like.

The input/output interface950may play a role, for example, an interface which transmits an instruction or data input from a user or another external device, to other element(s) of the electronic device901. Furthermore, the input/output interface950may output an instruction or data, received from other element(s) of the electronic device901, to a user or another external device.

The display960may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, an organic LED (OLED) display, a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) display, or an electronic paper display. The display960may display, for example, various contents (e.g., a text, an image, a video, an icon, a symbol, and the like) to a user. The display960may include a touch screen and may receive, for example, a touch, gesture, proximity, or hovering input using an electronic pen or a part of a user's body.

For example, the communication interface970may establish communication between the electronic device901and an external device (e.g., the first external electronic device902, the second external electronic device904, or the server906). For example, the communication interface970may be connected to the network962over wireless communication or wired communication to communicate with the external device (e.g., the second external electronic device904or the server906).

The wireless communication may include at least one or more of, for example, long-term evolution (LTE), LTE-A (LTE Advanced), code division multiple access (CDMA), wideband CDMA (WCDMA), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), wireless broadband (WiBro), global system for mobile communications (GSM), or the like, as cellular communication protocol. Furthermore, the wireless communication may include, for example, the short range communication964. The short range communication964may include at least one or more of a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), a Bluetooth, a near field communication (NFC), a magnetic stripe transmission (MST), a global navigation satellite system (GNSS), or the like.

The MST may generate a pulse in response to transmission data using an electromagnetic signal, and the pulse may generate a magnetic field signal. The electronic device901may transfer the magnetic field signal to point of sale (POS), and the POS may detect the magnetic field signal using a MST reader. The POS may recover the data by converting the detected magnetic field signal to an electrical signal.

The GNSS may include at least one or more of, for example, a global positioning system (GPS), a global navigation satellite system (Glonass), a Beidou navigation satellite system (hereinafter referred to as “Beidou”), or an European global satellite-based navigation system (hereinafter referred to as “Galileo”) based on an available region, a bandwidth, or the like. Hereinafter, in the present disclosure, “GPS” and “GNSS” may be interchangeably used. The wired communication may include at least one or more of, for example, a universal serial bus (USB), a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a recommended standard-232 (RS-232), a plain old telephone service (POTS), or the like. The network962may include at least one or more of telecommunications networks, for example, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN), an Internet, or a telephone network.

Each of the first external electronic device902and the second external electronic device904may be a device of which the type is different from or the same as that of the electronic device901. According to an embodiment, the server906may include a group of one or more servers. According to various embodiments, all or a part of operations that the electronic device901may perform may be executed by another or plural electronic devices (e.g., the electronic devices902and904or the server906). According to an embodiment, in the case where the electronic device901executes any function or service automatically or in response to a request, the electronic device901may not perform the function or the service internally, but, alternatively additionally, it may request at least a part of a function associated with the electronic device901at other device (e.g., the electronic device902or904or the server906). The other electronic device (e.g., the electronic device902or904or the server906) may execute the requested function or additional function and may transmit the execution result to the electronic device901. The electronic device901may provide the requested function or service using the received result or may additionally process the received result to provide the requested function or service. To this end, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, or client-server computing may be used.

FIG. 10illustrates an example electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring toFIG. 10, an electronic device1001may include, for example, all or a part of the electronic device901illustrated inFIG. 9. The electronic device1001may include one or more processors (e.g., an application processor)1010, a communication interface1020, a subscriber identification module1024, a memory1030, a sensor1040, an input device1050, a display1060, an interface1070, an audio1080, a camera1091, a power management1095, a battery1096, an indicator1097, and a motor1098.

The processor1010may drive, for example, an operating system (OS) or an application to control a plurality of hardware or software elements connected to the processor1010and may process and compute a variety of data. For example, the processor1010may be implemented with a System on Chip (SoC). According to an embodiment, the processor1010may further include a graphic processing unit (GPU) and/or an image signal processor. The processor1010may include at least a part (e.g., a cellular interface1021) of elements illustrated inFIG. 10. The processor1010may load and process an instruction or data, which is received from at least one or more of other elements (e.g., a nonvolatile memory) and may store a variety of data in a nonvolatile memory.

The communication interface1020may be configured the same as or similar to the communication interface970ofFIG. 9. The communication interface1020may include the cellular interface1021, a Wi-Fi interface1022, a Bluetooth (BT) module1023, a GNSS interface1024(e.g., a GPS interface, a Glonass interface, a Beidou interface, or a Galileo interface), a near field communication (NFC) interface1025, a MST interface1026, and a radio frequency (RF)1027.

The cellular interface1021may provide, for example, voice communication, video communication, a character service, an Internet service, or the like over a communication network. According to an embodiment, the cellular interface1021may perform discrimination and authentication of the electronic device1001within a communication network by using the subscriber identification module (e.g., a SIM card)1029. According to an embodiment, the cellular interface1021may perform at least a portion of functions that the processor1010provides. According to an embodiment, the cellular interface1021may include a communication processor (CP).

Each of the Wi-Fi interface1022, the BT interface1023, the GNSS interface1024, the NFC interface1025, or the MST interface1026may include a processor for processing data exchanged through a corresponding module, for example. According to an embodiment, at least a part (e.g., two or more) of the cellular interface1021, the Wi-Fi interface1022, the BT interface1023, the GNSS interface1024, the NFC interface1025, or the MST interface1026may be included within one Integrated Circuit (IC) or an IC package.

For example, the RF1027may transmit and receive a communication signal (e.g., an RF signal). For example, the RF1027may include a transceiver, a power amplifier module (PAM), a frequency filter, a low noise amplifier (LNA), an antenna, or the like. According to another embodiment, at least one or more of the cellular interface1021, the Wi-Fi interface1022, the BT interface1023, the GNSS interface1024, the NFC interface1025, or the MST interface1026may transmit and receive an RF signal through a separate RF.

The subscriber identification module1029may include, for example, a card and/or embedded SIM that includes a subscriber identification module and may include unique identify information (e.g., integrated circuit card identifier (ICCID)) or subscriber information (e.g., integrated mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)).

The memory1030(e.g., the memory930) may include an internal memory1032or an external memory1034. For example, the internal memory1032may include at least one or more of a volatile memory (e.g., a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a static RAM (SRAM), or a synchronous DRAM (SDRAM)), a nonvolatile memory (e.g., a one-time programmable read only memory (OTPROM), a programmable ROM (PROM), an erasable and programmable ROM (EPROM), an electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), a mask ROM, a flash ROM, a flash memory (e.g., a NAND flash memory or a NOR flash memory)), a hard drive, or a solid state drive (SSD).

The external memory1034may further include a flash drive such as compact flash (CF), secure digital (SD), micro secure digital (Micro-SD), mini secure digital (Mini-SD), extreme digital (xD), a multimedia card (MMC), a memory stick, or the like. The external memory1034may be operatively and/or physically connected to the electronic device1001through various interfaces.

A security circuitry1036may be a module that includes a storage space of which a security level is higher than that of the memory1030and may be a circuit that guarantees safe data storage and a protected execution environment. The security circuitry1036may be implemented with a separate circuit and may include a separate processor. For example, the security circuitry1036may be in a smart chip or a secure digital (SD) card, which is removable, or may include an embedded secure element (eSE) embedded in a fixed chip of the electronic device1001. Furthermore, the security circuitry1036may operate based on an operating system (OS) that is different from the OS of the electronic device1001. For example, the security circuitry1036may operate based on Java card open platform (JCOP) OS.

The sensor1040may measure, for example, a physical quantity or may detect an operation state of the electronic device1001. The sensor1040may convert the measured or detected information to an electric signal. Generally or additionally, the sensor1040may include at least one or more of a gesture sensor1040A, a gyro sensor1040B, a barometric pressure sensor1040C, a magnetic sensor1040D, an acceleration sensor1040E, a grip sensor1040F, the proximity sensor1040G, a color sensor1040H (e.g., red, green, blue (RGB) sensor), a biometric sensor1040I, a temperature/humidity sensor1040J, an illuminance sensor1040K, or an UV sensor1040M. Although not illustrated, additionally or generally, the sensor1040may further include, for example, an E-nose sensor, an electromyography sensor (EMG) sensor, an electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor, an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, an iris sensor, a fingerprint sensor, and the like. The sensor1040may further include a control circuit for controlling at least one or more sensors included therein. According to an embodiment, the electronic device1001may further include a processor that is a part of the processor1010or independent of the processor1010and is configured to control the sensor1040. The processor may control the sensor1040while the processor1010remains at a sleep state.

The input device1050may include, for example, a touch panel1052, a (digital) pen sensor1054, a key1056, or an ultrasonic input unit1058. For example, the touch panel1052may use at least one or more of capacitive, resistive, infrared and ultrasonic detecting methods. Also, the touch panel1052may further include a control circuit. The touch panel1052may further include a tactile layer to provide a tactile reaction to a user.

The (digital) pen sensor1054may be, for example, a part of a touch panel or may include an additional sheet for recognition. The key1056may include, for example, a physical button, an optical key, a keypad, or the like. The ultrasonic input device1058may detect (or sense) an ultrasonic signal, which is generated from an input device, through a microphone (e.g., a microphone1088) and may check data corresponding to the detected ultrasonic signal.

The display1060(e.g., the display960) may include a panel1062, a hologram device1064, or a projector1066. The panel1062may be configured to be the same as or similar to the display960illustrated inFIG. 9. The panel1062may be implemented, for example, to be flexible, transparent or wearable. The panel1062and the touch panel1052may be integrated into a single module. The hologram device1064may display a stereoscopic image in a space using a light interference phenomenon. The projector1066may project light onto a screen so as to display an image. The screen may be arranged in the inside or the outside of the electronic device1001. According to an embodiment, the display1060may further include a control circuit for controlling the panel1062, the hologram device1064, or the projector1066.

The interface1070may include, for example, a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI)1072, a universal serial bus (USB)1074, an optical interface1076, or a D-subminiature (D-sub)1078. The interface1070may be included, for example, in the communication interface970illustrated inFIG. 9. Additionally or generally, the interface1070may include, for example, a mobile high definition link (MHL) interface, a SD card/multi-media card (MMC) interface, or an infrared data association (IrDA) standard interface.

The audio1080may convert a sound and an electric signal in dual directions. At least a part of the audio1080may be included, for example, in the input/output interface950illustrated inFIG. 9. The audio1080may process, for example, sound information that is input or output through a speaker1082, a receiver1084, an earphone1086, or the microphone1088.

The camera1091for shooting a still image or a video may include, for example, at least one or more image sensors (e.g., a front sensor or a rear sensor), a lens, an image signal processor (ISP), or a flash (e.g., an LED or a xenon lamp).

The power management1095may manage, for example, power of the electronic device1001. According to an embodiment, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC), a charger IC, or a battery or fuel gauge may be included in the power management1095. The PMIC may have a wired charging method and/or a wireless charging method. The wireless charging method may include, for example, a magnetic resonance method, a magnetic induction method or an electromagnetic method and may further include an additional circuit, for example, a coil loop, a resonant circuit, or a rectifier, and the like. The battery gauge may measure, for example, a remaining capacity of the battery1096and a voltage, current or temperature thereof while the battery is charged. The battery1096may include, for example, a rechargeable battery and/or a solar battery.

The indicator1097may display a specific state of the electronic device1001or a part thereof (e.g., the processor1010), such as a booting state, a message state, a charging state, and the like. The motor1098may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical vibration and may generate the following effects: vibration, haptic, and the like. Although not illustrated, a processing device (e.g., a GPU) for supporting a mobile TV may be included in the electronic device1001. The processing device for supporting the mobile TV may process media data according to the standards of digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB), digital video broadcasting (DVB), MediaFlo™, or the like.

Each of the above-mentioned elements of the electronic device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured with one or more components, and the names of the elements may be changed according to the type of the electronic device. In various embodiments, the electronic device may include at least one or more of the above-mentioned elements, and some elements may be omitted or other additional elements may be added. Furthermore, some of the elements of the electronic device according to various embodiments may be combined with each other so as to form one entity, so that the functions of the elements may be performed in the same manner as before the combination.

FIG. 11illustrates an example program module, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

According to an embodiment, a program module1110(e.g., the program940) may include an operating system (OS) to control resources associated with an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device901), and/or diverse applications (e.g., the application program947) driven on the OS. The OS may be, for example, Android™, iOS™, Windows™, Symbian™, Tizen™, or Samsung bada OS™.

The program module1110may include a kernel1120, a middleware1130, an application programming interface (API)1160, and/or an application1170. At least a part of the program module1110may be preloaded on an electronic device or may be downloadable from an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device902or904, the server906, and the like).

The kernel1120(e.g., the kernel941) may include, for example, a system resource manager1121or a device driver1123. The system resource manager1121may perform control, allocation, or retrieval of system resources. According to an embodiment, the system resource manager1121may include a process managing unit, a memory managing unit, or a file system managing unit. The device driver1123may include, for example, a display driver, a camera driver, a Bluetooth driver, a shared memory driver, a USB driver, a keypad driver, a Wi-Fi driver, an audio driver, or an inter-process communication (IPC) driver.

The middleware1130may provide, for example, a function that the application1170needs in common, or may provide diverse functions to the application1170through the API1160to allow the application1170to efficiently use limited system resources of the electronic device. According to an embodiment, the middleware1130(e.g., the middleware943) may include at least one or more of a runtime library1135, an application manager1141, a window manager1142, a multimedia manager1143, a resource manager1144, a power manager1145, a database manager1146, a package manager1147, a connectivity manager1148, a notification manager1149, a location manager1150, a graphic manager1151, a security manager1152, or a payment manager1154.

The runtime library1135may include, for example, a library module that is used by a compiler to add a new function through a programming language while the application1170is being executed. The runtime library1135may perform input and/or output management, memory management, or capacities about arithmetic functions.

The application manager1141may manage, for example, a life cycle of at least one application of the application1170. The window manager1142may manage a GUI resource that is used in a screen. The multimedia manager1143may identify a format necessary for playing diverse media files, and may perform encoding or decoding of media files by using a codec suitable for the format. The resource manager1144may manage resources such as a storage space, memory, or source code of at least one application of the application1170.

The power manager1145may operate, for example, with a basic input/output system (BIOS) to manage a battery or power, and may provide power information for an operation of an electronic device. The database manager1146may generate, search for, or modify database that is to be used in at least one application of the application1170. The package manager1147may install or update an application that is distributed in the form of package file.

The connectivity manager1148may manage, for example, wireless connection such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The notification manager1149may display or notify an event such as arrival message, appointment, or proximity notification in a mode that does not disturb a user. The location manager1150may manage location information about an electronic device. The graphic manager1151may manage a graphic effect that is provided to a user, or manage a user interface relevant thereto. The security manager1152may provide a general security function necessary for system security or user authentication. According to an embodiment, in the case where an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device901) includes a telephony function, the middleware1130may further includes a telephony manager for managing a voice or video call function of the electronic device.

The middleware1130may include a middleware module that combines diverse functions of the above-described elements. The middleware1130may provide a module specialized to each OS kind to provide differentiated functions. Additionally, the middleware1130may dynamically remove a part of the preexisting elements or may add new elements thereto.

The API1160(e.g., the API945) may be, for example, a set of programming functions and may be provided with a configuration that is variable depending on an OS. For example, in the case where an OS is the android or the iOS, it may be permissible to provide one API set per platform. In the case where an OS is the Tizen, it may be permissible to provide two or more API sets per platform.

The application1170(e.g., the application program947) may include, for example, one or more applications capable of providing functions for a borne1171, a dialer1172, an SMS/MMS1173, an instant message (IM)1174, a browser1175, a camera1176, an alarm1177, a contact1178, a voice dial1179, an e-mail1180, a calendar1181, a media player1182, an album1183, and a timepiece1184, or for offering health care (e.g., measuring an exercise quantity, blood sugar, or the like) or environment information (e.g., atmospheric pressure, humidity, temperature, or the like).

According to an embodiment, the application1170may include an application (hereinafter referred to as “information exchanging application” for descriptive convenience) to support information exchange between an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device901) and an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device902or904). The information exchanging application may include, for example, a notification relay application for transmitting specific information to an external electronic device, or a device management application for managing the external electronic device.

For example, the notification relay application may include a function of transmitting notification information, which arise from other applications (e.g., applications for SMS/MMS, e-mail, health care, or environmental information), to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device902or904). Additionally, the information exchanging application may receive, for example, notification information from an external electronic device and provide the notification information to a user.

The device management application may manage (e.g., install, delete, or update), for example, at least one function (e.g., turn-on/turn-off of an external electronic device (or a part of elements) or adjustment of brightness (or resolution) of a display) of the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device902or904) which communicates with the electronic device, an application running in the external electronic device, or a service (e.g., a call service, a message service, or the like) provided from the external electronic device.

According to an embodiment, the application1170may include an application (e.g., a health care application of a mobile medical device) that is assigned in accordance with an attribute of an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device902or904). According to an embodiment, the application1170may include an application that is received from an external electronic device (e.g., the server906or the electronic device902or904). According to an embodiment, the application1170may include a preloaded application or a third party application that is downloadable from a server. The element titles of the program module1110according to the embodiment may be modifiable depending on kinds of operating systems.

According to various embodiments, at least a part of the program module1110may be implemented by software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of two or more thereof. At least a portion of the program module1110may be implemented (e.g., executed), for example, by the processor (e.g., the processor1010). At least a portion of the program module1110may include, for example, modules, programs, routines, a plurality of sets of instructions, processes, or the like for performing one or more functions.

At least a part of an apparatus (e.g., modules or functions thereof) or a method (e.g., operations) according to various embodiments may be, for example, implemented by instructions stored in a computer-readable storage media in the form of a program module. The instruction, when executed by a processor (e.g., the processor920), may cause the one or more processors to perform a function corresponding to the instruction. The computer-readable storage media, for example, may be the memory930.

A computer-readable recording medium may include a hard disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic media (e.g., a magnetic tape), an optical media (e.g., a compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM) and a digital versatile disc (DVD), a magneto-optical media (e.g., a floptical disk)), and hardware devices (e.g., a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), or a flash memory). Also, a program instruction may include not only a mechanical code such as things generated by a compiler but also a high-level language code executable on a computer using an interpreter. The above hardware unit may be configured to operate via one or more software modules for performing an operation of the present disclosure, and vice versa.

A module or a program module according to various embodiments may include at least one or more of the above elements, or a part of the above elements may be omitted, or additional other elements may be further included. Operations performed by a module, a program module, or other elements according to various embodiments may be executed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or in a heuristic method. In addition, some operations may be executed in different sequences or may be omitted. Alternatively, other operations may be added.

According to embodiments disclosed in this disclosure, a circuit is used to allow the impedance of an antenna in idle state to be mismatched to a frequency band of a signal transmitted and/or received in an SISO mode, such that the performance of an antenna in use may be prevented from being deteriorated by an antenna in idle state.