Patent Description:
As an example, the repeater can receive, via an antenna, downlink signals from the wireless communication access point. The repeater can amplify the downlink signal and then provide an amplified downlink signal to the wireless device. In other words, the repeater can act as a relay between the wireless device and the wireless communication access point. As a result, the wireless device can receive a stronger signal from the wireless communication access point. Similarly, uplink signals from the wireless device (e.g., telephone calls and other data) can be received at the repeater. The repeater can amplify the uplink signals before communicating, via an antenna, the uplink signals to the wireless communication access point.

The following prior art documents are acknowledged: <CIT> and <CIT>. <CIT> discloses methods, systems, and devices for wireless communications are described that provide a repeater for beamforming a received signal at a millimeter wave (mmW) radio frequency via one or more scan angles or beamforming directions and then retransmitting and beamforming the signal at the mmW radio frequency.

<CIT> disclose a single amplification path which could not be used in the present application since the same single amplification path <NUM> would necessarily need to apply the same amount of amplification and/or attenuation to all signals.

Before the present invention is disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the particular structures, process steps, or materials disclosed herein, but is extended to equivalents thereof as would be recognized by those ordinarily skilled in the relevant arts. It should also be understood that terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to be limiting. The same reference numerals in different drawings represent the same element. Numbers provided in flow charts and processes are provided for clarity in illustrating steps and operations and do not necessarily indicate a particular order or sequence.

Repeaters can increase the quality of wireless communication between a wireless device and a wireless communication access point by amplifying, filtering, or applying other processing techniques to uplink and downlink signals communicated between the wireless device and the wireless communication access point.

Cellular communication standards have become more complex with each additional generation. As the use of wireless handsets have become more popular, government entities have provided significantly more bandwidth. The bandwidth is typically provided in selected frequency bands. The Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standard now lists over <NUM> different bands that can be used at locations around the world.

Cellular repeaters are following the trend of the cellular communications standards. The repeaters are also more complex in order to provide the desired amplification and filtering for the different bands. However, the increased complexity can increase the cost and power of a repeater. New repeater designs and architectures are needed to provide relatively low cost repeaters for consumers that can provide the amplification and filtering of the bands often used by consumers.

One option to enable a cellular repeater to amplify and filter numerous different cellular bands is through the use of digital filtering. Digital filters can provide sharper filter cutoffs and greater flexibility than traditional analog filters. Unfortunately, digital filtering can be fairly expensive. Traditional digital filtering typically involves the use of multiple synthesizers, downconverters, and upconverters to digitally filter radio frequency signals. A radio frequency signal is can be down converted to an intermediate frequency and/or baseband frequency level. The baseband signal is then converted from analog to digital, filtered, converted back to analog, and then upconverted to an intermediate frequency and then back to the radio frequency that can be transmitted. The use of the synthesizers, upconverters, downconverters, digital processors, and so forth can become prohibitively complex and expensive when multiple bands are considered.

More recently, as computer chips have become faster at processing data and capable of operating at higher frequencies, it has become possible to convert a radio frequency signal directly to a digital signal, which can then be filtered and then converted back to an RF signal. The use of fast computer chips can reduce the number of components used in digital filtering. However, specialized computer chips that are capable of directly converting radio frequency signals to digital signals for filtering are also relatively expensive. A multiband repeater can have from <NUM> to <NUM> or more different amplification and filtering paths, including uplink paths and downlink paths for each band and/or channel. The cost of using the fast computer chips on each amplification and filtering path can be cost prohibitive.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary repeater <NUM> in communication with a wireless device <NUM> and a base station <NUM>. The repeater <NUM> can be referred to as a signal booster. A repeater can be an electronic device used to amplify (or boost) signals. The repeater <NUM> (also referred to as a cellular signal amplifier) can improve the quality of wireless communication by amplifying, filtering, and/or applying other processing techniques via a signal amplifier <NUM> to uplink signals communicated from the wireless device <NUM> to the base station <NUM> and/or downlink signals communicated from the base station <NUM> to the wireless device <NUM>. In other words, the repeater <NUM> can amplify or boost uplink signals and/or downlink signals bi-directionally. In one example, the repeater <NUM> can be at a fixed location, such as in a home or office. Alternatively, the repeater <NUM> can be attached to a mobile object, such as a vehicle or a wireless device <NUM>.

In one configuration, the repeater <NUM> can include an integrated device antenna <NUM> (e.g., an inside antenna or a coupling antenna) and an integrated node antenna <NUM> (e.g., an outside antenna). The integrated node antenna <NUM> can receive the downlink signal from the base station <NUM>. The downlink signal can be provided to the signal amplifier <NUM> via a second coaxial cable <NUM> or other type of radio frequency connection operable to communicate radio frequency signals. The signal amplifier <NUM> can include one or more cellular signal amplifiers for amplification and filtering. The downlink signal that has been amplified and filtered can be provided to the integrated device antenna <NUM> via a first coaxial cable <NUM> or other type of radio frequency connection operable to communicate radio frequency signals. The integrated device antenna <NUM> can wirelessly communicate the downlink signal that has been amplified and filtered to the wireless device <NUM>.

Similarly, the integrated device antenna <NUM> can receive an uplink signal from the wireless device <NUM>. The uplink signal can be provided to the signal amplifier <NUM> via the first coaxial cable <NUM> or other type of radio frequency connection operable to communicate radio frequency signals. The signal amplifier <NUM> can include one or more cellular signal amplifiers for amplification and filtering. The uplink signal that has been amplified and filtered can be provided to the integrated node antenna <NUM> via the second coaxial cable <NUM> or other type of radio frequency connection operable to communicate radio frequency signals. The integrated device antenna <NUM> can communicate the uplink signal that has been amplified and filtered to the base station <NUM>.

In one example, the repeater <NUM> can filter the uplink and downlink signals using any suitable analog or digital filtering technology including, but not limited to, surface acoustic wave (SAW) filters, bulk acoustic wave (BAW) filters, film bulk acoustic resonator (FBAR) filters, ceramic filters, waveguide filters or low-temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) filters.

In one example, the repeater <NUM> can send uplink signals to a node and/or receive downlink signals from the node. The node can comprise a wireless wide area network (WWAN) access point (AP), a base station (BS), an evolved Node B (eNB), a baseband unit (BBU), a remote radio head (RRH), a remote radio equipment (RRE), a relay station (RS), a radio equipment (RE), a remote radio unit (RRU), a central processing module (CPM), or another type of WWAN access point.

In one configuration, the repeater <NUM> used to amplify the uplink and/or a downlink signal is a handheld booster. The handheld booster can be implemented in a sleeve of the wireless device <NUM>. The wireless device sleeve can be attached to the wireless device <NUM>, but can be removed as needed. In this configuration, the repeater <NUM> can automatically power down or cease amplification when the wireless device <NUM> approaches a particular base station. In other words, the repeater <NUM> can determine to stop performing signal amplification when the quality of uplink and/or downlink signals is above a defined threshold based on a location of the wireless device <NUM> in relation to the base station <NUM>.

In one example, the repeater <NUM> can include a battery to provide power to various components, such as the signal amplifier <NUM>, the integrated device antenna <NUM> and the integrated node antenna <NUM>. The battery can also power the wireless device <NUM> (e.g., phone or tablet). Alternatively, the repeater <NUM> can receive power from the wireless device <NUM>.

In one configuration, the repeater, also referred to as a repeater <NUM>, can be a Federal Communications Commission (FCC)-compatible consumer repeater. As a non-limiting example, the repeater <NUM> can be compatible with FCC Part <NUM> or <NUM> Code of Federal Regulations (C. ) Part <NUM> (March <NUM>, <NUM>). In addition, the handheld booster can operate on the frequencies used for the provision of subscriber-based services under parts <NUM> (Cellular), <NUM> (Broadband PCS), <NUM> (AWS-<NUM>, <NUM> megahertz (MHz) Lower A-E Blocks, and <NUM> Upper C Block), and <NUM> (Specialized Mobile Radio) of <NUM> C. The repeater <NUM> can be configured to automatically self-monitor its operation to ensure compliance with applicable noise and gain limits. The repeater <NUM> can either self-correct or shut down automatically if the repeater's operations violate the regulations defined in <NUM> CFR Part <NUM>. While a repeater that is compatible with FCC regulations is provided as an example, it is not intended to be limiting. The repeater can be configured to be compatible with other governmental regulations based on the location where the repeater is configured to operate.

In one configuration, the repeater <NUM> can improve the wireless connection between the wireless device <NUM> and the base station <NUM> (e.g., cell tower) or another type of wireless wide area network (WWAN) access point (AP) by amplifying desired signals relative to a noise floor. The repeater <NUM> can boost signals for cellular standards, such as the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Long Term Evolution (LTE) Release <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> standards or Institute of Electronics and Electrical Engineers (IEEE) <NUM>. In one configuration, the repeater <NUM> can boost signals for 3GPP LTE Release <NUM>. <NUM> (October <NUM>) or other desired releases.

The repeater <NUM> can boost signals from the <NPL>) bands, referred to as LTE frequency bands. For example, the repeater <NUM> can boost signals from one or more of the LTE frequency bands: <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. In addition, the repeater <NUM> can boost selected frequency bands based on the country or region in which the repeater is used, including any of bands <NUM>-<NUM> or other bands, as disclosed in <NPL>), and depicted in Table <NUM>:.

In another configuration, the repeater <NUM> can boost signals from the <NPL>) bands, referred to as <NUM> frequency bands. In addition, the repeater <NUM> can boost selected frequency bands based on the country or region in which the repeater is used, including any of bands n1 - n86 in frequency range <NUM> (FR1), n257 - n261 in frequency range <NUM> (FR2), or other bands, as disclosed in <NPL>), and depicted in Table <NUM> and Table <NUM>:.

The number of 3GPP LTE or <NUM> frequency bands and the level of signal improvement can vary based on a particular wireless device, cellular node, or location. Additional domestic and international frequencies can also be included to offer increased functionality. Selected models of the repeater <NUM> can be configured to operate with selected frequency bands based on the location of use. In another example, the repeater <NUM> can automatically sense from the wireless device <NUM> or base station <NUM> (or GPS, etc.) which frequencies are used, which can be a benefit for international travelers.

In one example, the repeater can be configured to transmit a downlink (DL) signal in a millimeter wave (mm Wave) frequency range, and transmit an uplink (UL) signal in a sub-<NUM> gigahertz (GHz) frequency range. In this example, a mm Wave frequency range can be a frequency between <NUM> and <NUM>.

In one configuration, multiple repeaters can be used to amplify UL and DL signals. For example, a first repeater can be used to amplify UL signals and a second repeater can be used to amplify DL signals. In addition, different repeaters can be used to amplify different frequency ranges.

In one configuration, the repeater <NUM> can be configured to identify when the wireless device <NUM> receives a relatively strong downlink signal. An example of a strong downlink signal can be a downlink signal with a signal strength greater than approximately -80dBm. The repeater <NUM> can be configured to automatically turn off selected features, such as amplification, to conserve battery life. When the repeater <NUM> senses that the wireless device <NUM> is receiving a relatively weak downlink signal, the integrated booster can be configured to provide amplification of the downlink signal. An example of a weak downlink signal can be a downlink signal with a signal strength less than -80dBm.

<FIG> provides an example illustration of a repeater <NUM> that includes a direct digital channelizer <NUM>. The direct digital channelizer (DDC) <NUM> is configured to receive a radio frequency (RF) signal at an input of a high speed analog to digital converter (ADC) and convert the RF signal to a digital signal. The digital signal can then be sent to a digital processor, where the digitized signal can be filtered and digitally manipulated as desired. One or more digital filters can be applied to the digital signal. The digital filters can be used to filter out unwanted noise in the signal, and extraneous noise outside of the signal band. The signal band can include multiple different channels. Using digital filters, the digitized RF signal can be channelized. The RF band or channelized signal can be shaped with a desired filter roll off. In addition, the digital processor can also apply amplitude equalization to each of the channelized filters. The processed digital signal can then be sent to a high speed digital to analog converter (DAC) that can directly convert the digitized signal back to an RF signal. The digitally filtered channels may be interleaved at the DAC output.

In one embodiment, the digital processor in the DDC <NUM> can be configured to process a plurality of different digitized radio frequency signals in parallel. In one example, this allows multiple different channels in a band to be have filtering and amplitude equalization performed substantially simultaneously. Alternatively, multiple digitized signals in different RF bands can be input into the DDC. The digitized RF signals can have filtering and/or amplitude equalization performed substantially simultaneously. As used herein, the term substantially simultaneously is intended to refer to parallel processing that occurs in a chip within a set amount of time. To an end user, the signals appear to be processed simultaneously.

Examples of a DDC that can directly convert an RF signal to a digital signal, provide filtering, and then convert the filtered signal directly back to an RF signal include the MaxLinear Quad XLB Input Digital Satellite Channel Stacking Switch, and the D-Smart Digital Channel Stacking Solution. The term "stacking" refers to changing a band of a signal from the frequency it is received at to a separate frequency when it is converted back to RF. It is often used to receive satellite signals and convert them to different frequencies, such as frequencies that can be used for a cable set top box. Stacking of signals is not typically used in a repeater, since a repeater is configured to output a signal with the same frequency that the signal is received at. The examples provided are not intended to be limiting. Other chips with a high speed ADC, digital processor, and DAC can also be used.

<FIG> illustrates an example architecture that can be used to enable a bidirectional repeater to use a single DDC <NUM> that can filter and/or apply amplitude equalization of multiple signals. In this example, the architecture enables a DDC to receive bidirectional signal(s) that can be filtered and equalized substantially simultaneously.

For instance, an uplink signal can be received at a first antenna port <NUM>. The antenna port <NUM> is configured to be coupled to a first antenna <NUM>. In this example, the first antenna <NUM> can transmit and receive frequency division duplex (FDD) or time division duplex (TDD) signals. These signals can be communicated to/from the first antenna <NUM> to the first antenna port <NUM> of the repeater <NUM>.

In one example, the first antenna port <NUM> is configured to be coupled to a server antenna. The server antenna can receive a first-direction signal (e.g., an uplink signal) from a wireless device (e.g., a UE), and transmit a second-direction signal (e.g. a downlink signal) to the wireless device.

A downlink signal can be received at a second antenna port <NUM> that is configured to be coupled to a second antenna <NUM>. The second antenna can also transmit and receive FDD or TDD signals that can be communicated to/from the second antenna <NUM> to the second antenna port <NUM> of the repeater <NUM>. The repeater may include the antennas <NUM>, <NUM>. Alternatively, the repeater may be configured to be coupled to the antennas, and the antennas may be purchased separately.

In the example, the second antenna port <NUM> is configured to be coupled to a donor antenna. The donor antenna can receive a second direction signal (e.g. a downlink signal) from a base station, and transmit a first direction signal (e.g. an uplink signal) that is received at the repeater, to the base station.

The repeater <NUM> includes a signal combiner (SC) <NUM>. The signal combiner <NUM> can include a duplexer or a multiplexer. For example, a signal combiner can be used to route multiple signals to the input of a high speed analog to digital converter (ADC) in the DDC <NUM>. Additional bandpass filtering may be used.

The SC <NUM> includes a SC first input port that is coupled to the first antenna port <NUM> and a SC second input port that is coupled to the second antenna port <NUM>. A SC output port is can be configured to send a first RF signal (i.e. an uplink signal or downlink signal) from the first antenna port and a second RF signal (i.e. a downlink signal or uplink signal) from the second antenna port to the DDC <NUM>. Accordingly, the first and second RF signals have different directions (uplink or downlink).

As previously discussed, the DDC <NUM> can include a high speed analog to digital converter (ADC) having an ADC input that is coupled to the SC output port and an ADC output. The ADC is configured to directly sample the first RF signal and the second RF signal to form a combined digital signal.

The DDC <NUM> further includes a digital processor having a processor input coupled to the ADC output and a processor output. The digital processor is configured to process the combined digital signal. The processing can include applying digital filters to the combined digital signal. The digital filters can be used to filter a selected band, such as a 3GPP band. Alternatively, the digital filters can be configured to filter selected channel(s) in the 3GPP band or other desired RF band. The digital processor can be configured to output information regarding the first RF signal, the second RF signal, and/or selected channels in the first and second RF signals. The information can include, but is not limited to, frequency information, amplitude information, and timing information regarding the bands or channels in the first RF signal and the second RF signal. The DDC can also measure a channel power and apply automatic level control (ALC) to the channel's output power.

The DDC <NUM> further includes a digital to analog converter (DAC) with a DAC input coupled to the digital processor output and a DAC output port that is configured to convert the processed combined digital signal to a processed first RF signal and a processed second RF signal. In this example, the processed first RF signal can be a processed uplink signal, and the processed second RF signal can be a downlink signal, or vice versa.

The repeater <NUM> further includes a breakout signal divider (BSD) <NUM>. The breakout signal divider <NUM> can include any type of radio frequency signal direction device, such as a signal splitter. For example, a signal splitter can be used to route the output of the DAC in the DDC <NUM> to the first direction transmit amplification and filtering path <NUM> or the second direction transmit amplification and filtering path <NUM>. Additional bandpass filtering may be used if a splitter used.

The processed first RF signal and processed second RF signal can be directed by the breakout signal divider <NUM> to the first antenna port <NUM> for transmission at the first antenna <NUM>, or to the second antenna port <NUM> for transmission at the second antenna <NUM>. The BSD <NUM> includes a BSD input port coupled to the DAC output port of the DDC <NUM>. A BSD first output port is coupled to the second antenna port <NUM> that is configured to send the processed first RF signal for transmission at the second antenna. A BSD second output port is coupled to the first antenna port <NUM> that is configured to send the processed second RF signal for transmission at the first antenna.

The repeater <NUM> has a unique architecture with the use of the SC duplexer <NUM> and the BSD <NUM> located before and after the DDC <NUM>. Duplexers are typically used at the front end of radio frequency electronics. In this example, the duplexers allow a single DDC <NUM> to be used with bidirectional signals.

The repeater <NUM> can further comprise an RF amplifier <NUM> that is coupled between the DAC output port of the DDC <NUM> and the BSD input port of the BSD <NUM>. The RF amplifier <NUM> can be a low noise amplifier or a power amplifier.

The repeater <NUM> can further comprise a first antenna duplexer (1AD) <NUM>. The 1AD <NUM> includes a 1AD output port coupled to the SC <NUM> first input port; an 1AD input port coupled to the BSD <NUM> second output port; and a 1AD bidirectional port coupled to the first antenna port <NUM>. The 1AD <NUM> can be used to direct a first direction signal to the DDC <NUM>, and a second direction signal can be directed to the first antenna port <NUM> for communication to the first antenna <NUM> for transmission.

The repeater <NUM> can further comprise a first direction receive amplification and filtering path <NUM> coupled between the 1AD <NUM> output port and the first SC <NUM> input port. The first direction receive amplification and filtering path <NUM> can include a low noise amplifier, a variable attenuator, and a bandpass filter. <FIG> illustrates a digital signal attenuator (DSA). The DSA can be controlled by a controller <NUM> that can be used, in part, to set attenuation levels in the repeater <NUM>. For example, the controller <NUM> can be used to set attenuation levels of each DSA to achieve a desired power level for the signals in the repeater <NUM>. However, any type of variable attenuator can be used. Alternatively, a variable amplifier can be used with a static attenuator. The first direction receive amplification and filtering path <NUM> can be used to amplify and filter a signal received at the first antenna port <NUM> from the first antenna <NUM>. Once the signal is filtered and amplified, it can be sent to the DDC <NUM> for additional digital filtering. The DDC <NUM> itself may also have an internal Digital Satellite Equipment Control (DiSEqC) modem which can control the DDC <NUM> via standard control protocols, such as the EN50494 and EN50607 control protocols over coax cables. The DDC <NUM> can also be controlled remotely over coax from an external DiSEqC controller. In addition, the DDC <NUM> can be controlled over a wireless control link. In one example, the DDC <NUM> can be controlled wirelessly using a DiSEqC messaging protocol. The wireless link can be cellular (3GPP), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or another desired type of wireless communication.

The repeater <NUM> can further comprise a second direction transmit amplification and filtering path <NUM> coupled between the 1AD <NUM> input port and the BSD <NUM> second output port. The second direction transmit amplification and filtering path <NUM> can include a variable attenuator, a bandpass filter, and a power amplifier. The second direction transmit amplification and filtering path <NUM> can filter the processed second RF signal when it is output from the DDC <NUM>. The processed second RF signal can then be amplified by a selected amount and sent to the first antenna port <NUM> for communication to the first antenna <NUM> for transmission.

The repeater <NUM> can further comprise a second antenna duplexer (2AD) <NUM>. The 2AD includes a 2AD input port coupled to the BSD <NUM> first output port, a 2AD output port coupled to the SC <NUM> second input port, and a 2AD bidirectional port coupled to the second antenna port <NUM>. The 2AD can route <NUM>st direction signals and <NUM>nd direction signals to and from the second antenna port <NUM>.

The repeater <NUM> can further comprise a first direction transmit amplification and filtering path <NUM> coupled between the first BSD <NUM> output port and the 2AD <NUM> input port. The first direction transmit amplification and filtering path can include a variable attenuator, a bandpass filter, and a power amplifier. The first direction transmit amplification and filtering path can be used to filter and amplify a first direction signal before it is sent to the second antenna port <NUM> for communication to the second antenna <NUM> for transmission.

The repeater <NUM> can further comprise a second direction receive amplification and filtering path <NUM> coupled between the 2AD <NUM> output port and the second SC <NUM> input port. The second direction receive amplification and filtering path can include a low noise amplifier, a variable attenuator, and a bandpass filter. The second direction receive amplification and filtering path <NUM> can be used to amplify and filter a signal received at the second antenna port <NUM> from the second antenna <NUM>. Once the signal is filtered and amplified, it can be sent to the DDC <NUM> for additional digital filtering.

In one example, the DDC <NUM> can be configured to apply a first plurality of filters to the first RF signal. The first plurality of filters can filter the first RF signal over a selected band. Alternatively, the first plurality of signals can form one or more first channelized signals from the first RF signal. The DDC can apply a second plurality of filters to the second RF signal to filter the second RF signal over a second selected band. The band may be the same or different from the first band. The second plurality of filters can also be used to form one or more second channelized signals from the second RF signal.

In another example, the DDC can be configured to apply an amplitude equalization to one or more of the first channelized paths and apply the amplitude equalization to one or more of the second channelized paths.

The example architecture illustrated for the repeater <NUM> in <FIG> allows a single DDC <NUM> to be used to provide digital filtering for both the uplink signals and the downlink signals that are received and transmitted by the bidirectional repeater <NUM>. The ability to use a single DDC enables the repeater to be relatively inexpensive, low power, and have a high degree of reliability. The use of digital filtering can enable the repeater to be configured for operation in multiple different regions that may use different bands for communication. Because different types of digital filters can be applied at the DDC, the repeater can be used to provide different levels of filtering, depending on the legal requirements of the operating region. Accordingly, the repeater <NUM> can provide an inexpensive consumer cellular repeater that can be used in a large number of different locations with different transmission bands and communication requirements.

<FIG> provides an additional example architecture for a repeater <NUM> with a DDC. <FIG> illustrates that multiple bands can filtered through the single DDC <NUM>. The multiple bands are routed using signal combiners and signal dividers, such as multiplexers or signal splitters, in place of the 1AD <NUM>, SC <NUM>, BSD <NUM>, and 2AD <NUM> of <FIG>. In the example of <FIG>, two first direction bands and two second direction bands are routed through a multiplexer / signal combiner to the DDC <NUM> for digital filtering. Additional first direction and second direction bands can also be routed through the DDC <NUM>, depending on the limits of the ADC, digital processor, and DAC. The signals are routed from the DAC in the DDC <NUM> and through a multiplexer / signal splitter. As electronics continue to be miniaturized, and include more transistors that operate at faster clock frequencies, additional bands can be added to the single DDC. Signal splitters/combiners and bandpass filters can be used in place of the multiplexers.

<FIG> provides an example illustration of a repeater <NUM> in embodiment in which a different number of uplink bands or downlink bands are filtered using a single DDC <NUM>. In this example, there are two first direction paths and one second direction path. The DDC and repeater architecture are not limited to a select number or even number of paths. The repeater <NUM> can include M first direction paths and N second direction paths, where M and N are positive integers. Signal splitters and bandpass filters can be used in place of the multiplexers.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a repeater <NUM> with a DDC <NUM> that includes a separate ADC for each amplification and filtering path. The architecture of <FIG> is the same as <FIG>, with two first direction amplification and filtering paths and two second amplification and filtering paths. Instead of combining the four paths into a signal combiner / multiplexer, each of the paths are coupled to a separate ADC in the DDC <NUM>. As used herein, the term combiner multiplexer can include any type of signal combiner, including a duplexer, a multiplexer, or a signal splitter/combiner as previously discussed. Additional bandpass filtering may be used with a combiner multiplexer.

When a single ADC is used, as illustrated in <FIG>, there may be limitations on the dynamic range of each of the signals sent to the ADC. Using separate ADCs can provide a cleaner digitized signal input to the digital processor, and eliminates dynamic range concerns from different signal paths with signals having different signal levels. Accordingly, a DDC with separate ADCs can be used in a repeater where significantly different signal levels may be sent to the DDC. However, since each received signal is separately amplified prior to arriving at the DDC, the signals may be substantially equalized to enable the use of a single ADC, as shown in <FIG>. Signal splitters and bandpass filters can be used in place of the multiplexers.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a repeater <NUM> in which a first direction path and a second direction path are coupled to separate ADCs in a DDC <NUM>. In addition, an additional donor antenna <NUM> is configured to be coupled to an additional ADC in the DDC <NUM> via a donor antenna port <NUM> at the repeater <NUM>. In this example, a second direction receive amplification and filtering path <NUM> is coupled between the donor antenna port <NUM> and the additional ADC of the DDC <NUM>. While one additional donor port and donor antenna are illustrated in this example, it is not intended to be limiting. N additional donor antennas can be coupled to N donor ports, where N is a positive integer. Each donor port can be coupled to a separate ADC or a multiplexer that is coupled to a single ADC.

In the example of <FIG>, the received second direction RF signals from each donor port can be measured at the DDC <NUM>. The second direction RF signal that is considered the best (i.e. highest power, lowest noise, best channel characteristics and/or quality, etc.) can be selected and output from the DAC to the server antenna. A fixed first direction (i.e. uplink) signal can be transmitted on <NUM> of the N donor antennas. Signal splitters and bandpass filters can be used in place of the multiplexers.

<FIG> illustrates a similar architecture as <FIG>, with the addition of a switch <NUM> that is coupled between the donor antenna ports <NUM>, <NUM> and a first direction transmit amplification and filtering path <NUM>. In this example, a single server antenna <NUM>. The architecture of the repeater <NUM> allows a donor antenna to be selected with the switch <NUM> to provide a switched uplink with a fixed downlink path. While two donor antennas are shown, N donor antennas can be used, where N is a positive number greater than <NUM>. The digital processor in the DDC <NUM> can be used to provide band and/or channel filtering. The digital processor can statically or dynamically select the best second direction (i.e. downlink) donor antenna port that is coupled to the ADCs to output to the DAC. The first direction signal (i.e. uplink) can be switched statically or dynamically to drive the best downlink donor antenna via the switch <NUM>. In one example, the switch can be a high linearity RF switch. Signal splitters and bandpass filters can be used in place of the multiplexers.

<FIG> illustrates a repeater <NUM> with a similar architecture as <FIG>, with the switch <NUM> configured to direct a first direction signal to one of the donor antenna ports for communication to a selected donor antenna for transmission. A single server antenna with a selected donor antenna can provide a switched first direction signal (UL) with a fixed second direction signal (DL). As in <FIG>, N donor antennas can be used, where N is a positive number greater than <NUM>. The digital processor in the DDC <NUM> can provide band and channel filtering. The DDC <NUM> can statically or dynamically select a best downlink donor antenna from the signals input into the ADCs to output to the DAC. The first direction signal (i.e. uplink) can be statically or dynamically switched to drive one of the N first direction amplification and filtering paths to a best downlink donor antenna. The RF switch <NUM> driving the uplink paths can have a lower linearity than the RF switch <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. Signal splitters and bandpass filters can be used in place of the multiplexers.

<FIG> illustrates a repeater <NUM> with an architecture that is similar to the repeater <NUM> in <FIG>, with the addition of another server antenna port <NUM> configured to be coupled to an additional server antenna <NUM>. The server antenna port <NUM> is coupled to an ADC of the DDC <NUM> via a first direction receive amplification and filtering path <NUM>. While a single additional server antenna port is illustrated, this is not intended to be limiting. The repeater <NUM> can include M server antenna ports configured to be coupled to M server antennas and M ADCs or a multiplexer coupled to a single ADC of the DDC <NUM>. The DDC <NUM> can provide band and/or channel filtering. With two donor antenna ports and two server antenna ports, the digital processor in the DDC <NUM> can be configured to select a best DL donor antenna and a best UL server antenna from the inputs to the ADCs and output the selected signal from the DAC. The architecture can provide a fixed UL on <NUM> of N donor antennas and a fixed downlink on <NUM> of M server antennas, where M and N are positive integers greater than <NUM>. Signal splitters and bandpass filters can be used in place of the multiplexers.

<FIG> illustrates a repeater <NUM> with an architecture that is similar to <FIG> and <FIG>, with a donor antenna port selection switch <NUM> and a server antenna port selection switch <NUM>, to enable a switched uplink and a switched downlink. While two server antennas and two donor antennas are illustrated, it is not intended to be limiting. M server antennas and N donor antennas can be used, where N and M are positive integers greater than <NUM>. The DDC <NUM> can provide band and/or channel filtering. The digital processor in the DDC can statically or dynamically select a best downlink donor and uplink server antenna from the ADC inputs to output to the DAC. The first direction signals (i.e. UL) and second direction signals (i.e. downlink) can be switched statically or dynamically to drive the best downlink donor antennas and uplink server antennas, respectively, via the switches <NUM>, <NUM>. The switches can be high linearity RF switches. Signal splitters and bandpass filters can be used in place of the multiplexers.

<FIG> illustrates a repeater <NUM> with an architecture similar to <FIG> with the addition of the switchable server antenna port(s). The digital processor in the DDC <NUM> can provide band and channel filtering for each signal input to an ADC. The DDC <NUM> can statically or dynamically select a best downlink donor antenna and a best uplink server antenna from the signals input into the ADCs to output to the DAC. The best first direction signal (i.e. uplink) can be statically or dynamically switched to drive one of the N first direction amplification and filtering paths to a best downlink donor antenna. Similarly, the best second direction signal (i.e. downlink) can be statically or dynamically switched to drive one of the M second direction amplification and filtering paths to a best uplink server antenna. Signal splitters and bandpass filters can be used in place of the multiplexers.

In each of the examples illustrated in <FIG>, the signal to noise ratio of the signals can be maximized in the uplink and downlink paths for communication between the UE and the base station via the repeater by connecting the repeater's UL/DL RF paths to an optimum <NUM> of M server antenna port/antennas and <NUM> of N donor antenna port/antennas to provide an optimum antenna pair.

<FIG> illustrates a repeater <NUM> configured to receive broadband signals from a first donor antenna <NUM> and a second donor antenna <NUM>. The example in <FIG> illustrates an architecture with a parallel downlink that can be combined at a common server port. A first receive amplification and filtering path <NUM> is coupled to the first donor antenna via a first donor antenna port and a first ADC in a first DDC <NUM>. A second receive amplification and filtering path <NUM> is coupled between an antenna port <NUM> for the second donor antenna <NUM> and a second ADC of the first DDC <NUM>. The use of separate ADCs allows the downlink signals from the separate donor antennas to be digitized separately. The channels in the signals can be sampled separately and interleaved after the DAC in the first DDC <NUM>. This can provide donor diversity, with a common server antenna <NUM> which can simplify an installation of the repeater. A server receive amplification and filtering path <NUM> can be coupled between a server antenna port <NUM> and an ADC of a second DDC <NUM>. An uplink signal received at the server port can then be amplified and filtered before being digitized, digitally filtered in the second DDC <NUM>, converted to analog, and transmitted at one or both of the donor antennas. The use of two or more donor antennas can enable the repeater <NUM> to be used for MIMO transmission with a MIMO capable base station. The example of <FIG> can use duplexers for two bands, or multiplexers for two or more bands, as previously discussed. Alternatively, signal splitters and bandpass filters can be used in place of the multiplexers or duplexers.

<FIG> illustrates an example of a repeater <NUM> that is configured similarly to the repeater <NUM> in <FIG>. In the example of <FIG>, the second DDC <NUM> includes two separate DACs. This enables the uplink channel received at the server antenna to be directed to each donor antenna as desired. In one example, the uplink channel selection can mirror the downlink channel selection and interleaving. This architecture can improve network protection since on the desired signal is transmitted on each antenna. The use of two or more donor antennas can enable the repeater <NUM> to be used for MIMO transmission with a MIMO capable base station. The example of <FIG> can use duplexers for two bands, or multiplexers for two or more bands, as previously discussed. Alternatively, signal splitters and bandpass filters can be used in place of the multiplexers or duplexers.

<FIG> provides an example illustration of the wireless device, such as a user equipment (UE), a mobile station (MS), a mobile communication device, a tablet, a handset, a wireless transceiver coupled to a processor, or other type of wireless device. The wireless device can include one or more antennas configured to communicate with a node or transmission station, such as an access point (AP), a base station (BS), an evolved Node B (eNB), a baseband unit (BBU), a remote radio head (RRH), a remote radio equipment (RRE), a relay station (RS), a radio equipment (RE), a remote radio unit (RRU), a central processing module (CPM), or other type of wireless wide area network (WWAN) access point. The wireless device can communicate using separate antennas for each wireless communication standard or shared antennas for multiple wireless communication standards. The wireless device can communicate in a wireless local area network (WLAN), a wireless personal area network (WPAN), and/or a WWAN.

<FIG> also provides an illustration of a microphone and one or more speakers that can be used for audio input and output from the wireless device. The display screen can be a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen, or other type of display screen such as an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display. The display screen can be configured as a touch screen. The touch screen can use capacitive, resistive, or another type of touch screen technology. An application processor and a graphics processor can be coupled to internal memory to provide processing and display capabilities. A non-volatile memory port can also be used to provide data input/output options to a user. The non-volatile memory port can also be used to expand the memory capabilities of the wireless device. A keyboard can be with the wireless device or wirelessly connected to the wireless device to provide additional user input. A virtual keyboard can also be provided using the touch screen.

The following examples pertain to specific technology embodiments and point out specific features, elements, or actions that can be used or otherwise combined in achieving such embodiments.

Various techniques, or certain aspects or portions thereof, can take the form of program code (i.e., instructions) embodied in tangible media, such as floppy diskettes, compact disc-read-only memory (CD-ROMs), hard drives, non-transitory computer readable storage medium, or any other machine-readable storage medium wherein, when the program code is loaded into and executed by a machine, such as a computer, the machine becomes an apparatus for practicing the various techniques. Circuitry can include hardware, firmware, program code, executable code, computer instructions, and/or software. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium can be a computer readable storage medium that does not include signal. In the case of program code execution on programmable computers, the computing device can include a processor, a storage medium readable by the processor (including volatile and non-volatile memory and/or storage elements), at least one input device, and at least one output device. The volatile and non-volatile memory and/or storage elements can be a random-access memory (RAM), erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), flash drive, optical drive, magnetic hard drive, solid state drive, or other medium for storing electronic data. The low energy fixed location node, wireless device, and location server can also include a transceiver module (i.e., transceiver), a counter module (i.e., counter), a processing module (i.e., processor), and/or a clock module (i.e., clock) or timer module (i.e., timer). One or more programs that can implement or utilize the various techniques described herein can use an application programming interface (API), reusable controls, and the like. Such programs can be implemented in a high level procedural or object oriented programming language to communicate with a computer system. However, the program(s) can be implemented in assembly or machine language, if desired. In any case, the language can be a compiled or interpreted language, and combined with hardware implementations.

As used herein, the term processor can include general purpose processors, specialized processors such as VLSI, FPGAs, or other types of specialized processors, as well as base band processors used in transceivers to send, receive, and process wireless communications.

It should be understood that many of the functional units described in this specification have been labeled as modules, in order to more particularly emphasize their implementation independence. For example, a module can be implemented as a hardware circuit comprising custom very-large-scale integration (VLSI) circuits or gate arrays, off-the-shelf semiconductors such as logic chips, transistors, or other discrete components. A module can also be implemented in programmable hardware devices such as field programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, programmable logic devices or the like.

In one example, multiple hardware circuits or multiple processors can be used to implement the functional units described in this specification. For example, a first hardware circuit or a first processor can be used to perform processing operations and a second hardware circuit or a second processor (e.g., a transceiver or a baseband processor) can be used to communicate with other entities. The first hardware circuit and the second hardware circuit can be incorporated into a single hardware circuit, or alternatively, the first hardware circuit and the second hardware circuit can be separate hardware circuits.

Modules can also be implemented in software for execution by various types of processors. An identified module of executable code can, for instance, comprise one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions, which can, for instance, be organized as an object, procedure, or function. Nevertheless, the executables of an identified module need not be physically located together, but can comprise disparate instructions stored in different locations which, when joined logically together, comprise the module and achieve the stated purpose for the module.

Indeed, a module of executable code can be a single instruction, or many instructions, and can even be distributed over several different code segments, among different programs, and across several memory devices. Similarly, operational data can be identified and illustrated herein within modules, and can be embodied in any suitable form and organized within any suitable type of data structure. The operational data can be collected as a single data set, or can be distributed over different locations including over different storage devices, and can exist, at least partially, merely as electronic signals on a system or network. The modules can be passive or active, including agents operable to perform desired functions.

Reference throughout this specification to "an example" or "exemplary" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in an example" or the word "exemplary" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

As used herein, a plurality of items, structural elements, compositional elements, and/or materials can be presented in a common list for convenience. In addition, various embodiments and example of the present invention can be referred to herein along with alternatives for the various components thereof.

Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of layouts, distances, network examples, etc., to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, layouts, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

Claim 1:
A repeater (<NUM>) having a direct digital channelizer (DDC) (<NUM>) , the repeater comprising:
a first antenna port (<NUM>) configured to be coupled to a first antenna (<NUM>);
a second antenna port (<NUM>) configured to be coupled to a second antenna (<NUM>);
a signal combiner (SC) (<NUM>) comprising:
a SC first input port coupled to the first antenna port;
a SC second input port coupled to the second antenna port; and
a SC output port configured to send a first-direction radio frequency (RF) signal from the first antenna port and a second-direction RF signal from the second antenna port to the DDC;
the direct digital channelizer (DDC), comprising:
a high speed analog to digital converter (ADC) having an ADC input coupled to the SC output port and an ADC output, the ADC is configured to directly sample the first-direction RF signal and the second-direction RF signal to form a combined digital signal;
a digital processor having a processor input coupled to the ADC output and a processor output, the digital processor configured to process the combined digital signal ; and
a digital to analog converter (DAC) with a DAC input coupled to the processor output and a DAC output port configured to convert the processed combined digital signal to a processed first-direction RF signal and a processed second-direction RF signal; and
a breakout signal divider (BSD) (<NUM>) comprising:
a BSD input port coupled to the DAC output port;
a BSD first output port coupled to the second antenna port that is configured to send the processed first-direction RF signal for transmission at the second antenna; and
a BSD second output port coupled to the first antenna port that is configured to send the processed second-direction RF signal for transmission at the first antenna.