Patent ID: 10875765

Abstract:
A microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) switching circuit and related apparatus is provided. In examples discussed herein, the MEMS switching circuit is configured to toggle (open or close) a number of MEMS switches without causing hot switching in any of the MEMS switches. More specifically, the MEMS switching circuit determines a switching sequence for toggling the MEMS switches such that each MEMS switch is only opened or closed under a very low current (e.g., <0.1 mA) or a very low voltage (e.g., <0.1 V). By operating the MEMS switches based on the determined switching sequence, it may be possible to protect the MEMS switches from hot switching damage, thus making it possible to employ the MEMS switches in an apparatus (e.g., a wireless communication device) to replace conventional switches for improved power amplifier efficiency and radio frequency (RF) performance.