Patent ID: 12212381

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a system and method for wireless inter-networking between a wireless wide area network (WWAN) and a local area network (WLAN) employing one or more extended range wireless inter-networking devices. Aspects of the present disclosure also apply to other connected inter-networking devices such as smartphones, and other data devices in general. Aspects of the present disclosure further include a portable wireless access point configured for extended range communications, which may include a high power user equipment (“HPUE”) as disclosed herein.

Embodiments of the system and method are directed toward a high powered wireless interconnect device that may include high efficiency circuitry (e.g., utilizing 25% and above efficient amplifiers) to make it possible to implement in a personal, portable, and/or in-vehicle form factor, which may provide reasonable battery life, size, weight, and thermal dissipation. For instance, a traditional amplifier is in the 10-15% efficient range. However, to illustrate, an “out-of-spec” or high power transmission, as described below may result in excessive power consumption and heat generation. To illustrate, a six times increase in battery power may be required to support just a doubling of power transmitted, as needed for the high power/extended range communications. As it stands, under normal (standard, in-range) WWAN operations, personal mobile devices can become uncomfortably hot and battery life unduly short, particularly with user equipment already having many use cycles.

Briefly described and generally, the disclosure includes an inter-networking device and system where a WWAN modem is integrated with an efficient radio frequency (RF) front-end (RFFE) having the appropriate capability to meet stringent wireless requirements in a fashion that increases network performance without degradation to the performance of either the wireless network system, neighboring wireless equipment, and its own receive performance (include drawing of antenna and filtering of RFFE to avoid desense and enable high power). The higher performance modem is integrated seamlessly at the RF section and the appropriate protocol level to ensure network control performance is seamless and avoids improper interactions within the system at all protocol layers. It may also include other WWAN operational bands (e.g., multi-band) that may or may not be of higher power and integrate seamlessly, whether under local control or through a handoff process under network control. Included within this disclosure are antenna configurations beneficial for performance without creating self-interference.

Various aspects of the novel systems, devices, and methods are described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. The detailed description set forth herein, in connection with the appended drawings, is intended as a description of various configurations and embodiments, and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the concepts described herein may be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of various concepts. In particular, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well known structures and components are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring such concepts.

FIG.1schematically illustrates an extended range wireless or high power inter-networking system (“inter-networking system”), according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Here, an inter-networking system100is shown according to one exemplary embodiment. As shown, the inter-networking system100may include a device for wireless inter-networking, or high power user equipment (“HPUE”)200, a WLAN300, and a WWAN400. The HPUE200may be configured to communicably couple with WLAN300and WWAN400simultaneously.

The WLAN300is broadly understood to include a wireless computer network that links two or more devices using a wireless distribution method (often spread-spectrum or OFDM radio) within a limited area such as a building, home, school, or field, to name a few. The WLAN300may be configured to provide a connection to a private intranet and/or the wider Internet. According to one embodiment, WLAN300may be based on IEEE 802.11 standards (e.g., Wi-Fi).

The WWAN400is broadly understood to include a wireless network covering a larger or wider area in size than the WLAN300. Further, WWAN400may differ from WLAN300by using mobile telecommunication cellular network technologies such as LTE, WiMAX, UMTS, CDMA2000, GSM, cellular digital packet data and Mobitex to transfer data. It can also use Local Multipoint Distribution Service (LMDS) or Wi-Fi to provide Internet access. Further, it may connect to/from anywhere within the regional boundaries of such service. Various computers can have integrated WWAN capabilities. According to one embodiment, the WWAN400may also be any closed network that covers a large geographic area (e.g., a mesh network or mobile ad hoc network (MANET) with nodes on building, tower, trucks, and planes).

FIG.2schematically illustrates the extended range wireless inter-networking system ofFIG.1. Here, the inter-networking system100is shown with additional exemplary infrastructure. In particular and as shown, the HPUE200may be configured to communicate voice, text, streamed content, and/or packet data over the WLAN300with at least one of a computer (e.g., laptop)310, a mobile communication device (e.g., smart phone)320, a handheld computer (e.g., tablet)330, and a networking device (e.g., wireless router, Bluetooth sensor nodes, etc.)340. It is understood that other WLAN-enabled devices are contemplated. Likewise, the HPUE200may be further configured to communicate voice, text, streamed content, and/or packet data over the WWAN400via a base station410.

According to one preferred embodiment, the WLAN300may operate over the IEEE 802.11 standards. According to another preferred embodiment, the WWAN400may operate over Band 14 of the LTE standard. According to yet another preferred embodiment, the HPUE200may be configured to emit a Class 1 high power transmission over the WWAN400, where the transmit power exceeds that used by standard cellular devices, for example, by a factor of 6 (e.g., 8 dB), which is the maximum permitted by the standards and regulatory bodies.

It should be noted that current communication chipsets may experience premature wear, damage, and even failure upon reception of its own transmissions at these elevated, high power levels. As such and as described below, the HPUE200may incorporate the efficient RFFE having appropriate (i.e., for the particular application) extra protection so as to not blow out commercial receiver, for example, during extended range, high power transmissions. However, to increase network performance without degradation to the performance of either the wireless network system, neighboring wireless equipment, and its own receive performance, added impedance (e.g., addition of a 13 dB pad) is limited or balanced to not render base station transmissions overly attenuated while recognizing power coming back while in the high power mode of operation. For example, the HPUE200may be configured to maintain a balanced link budget (or imbalanced) through its operational range. The link budget referred to herein is the difference in power loss allowed for the downlink transmission versus the uplink transmission. Also as discussed below, the HPUE200may incorporate a rejection filter (discussed below) in its WWAN radio that is be specifically tuned to that of the power transmitted (including non-linear harmonics and VSWR issues in transmit chain). According to yet another preferred embodiment, the WLAN300and/or the WWAN400may separately or jointly incorporate encryption and authentication features.

According to one preferred embodiment, the WLAN300may be configured to operate in an infrastructure and/or ad hoc mode. In ad hoc mode, mobile units may transmit directly peer-to-peer. In infrastructure mode, mobile units may communicate through an access point that serves as a bridge to other networks (such as Internet or LAN). For example, according to a preferred embodiment, the HPUE200may be configured to communicably couple with WLAN300and WWAN400simultaneously, and operate as a “hotspot” between the WWAN400and end user devices310,320,330,340over the WLAN300. The WLAN300may be configured as a virtual private network (VPN) and/or may include other security features.

FIG.3schematically illustrates an extended range wireless inter-networking device, according to one embodiment of the disclosure. Here, the HPUE200is shown according to one exemplary embodiment. As shown, the HPUE200may include a support structure or chassis (e.g., a substrate, PCB, housing210, etc.), and affixed or otherwise coupled to the support structure (hereinafter housing210) the HPUE200may further include a power supply212, a processor214, a memory216, a WLAN radio220, and a WWAN radio240. According to one embodiment, the HPUE200may further include a location radio218including but not limited to a location radio adapted for a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) such as United States' Global Positioning System (GPS), Russia's GLONASS, China's BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) and the European Union's Galileo, etc. or any other Real-time locating systems (RTLS). According to one embodiment, the HPUE200may further include an n-axis accelerometer219. This may provide the benefit of providing inertial navigation enhancing resolution and reliability of the location radio218, for example.

Aspects of the disclosure may include a plurality of different housings210. In particular, by applying the teachings disclosed herein, it may be possible to tailor the HPUE200to have a form factor unique to its application. For example, and as discussed further below, the housing210may be configured as a handheld device or as an extended battery life device. Also for example, the housing210may be configured as a ruggedized case, a waterproof case, and/or a modular/MIL-STD case, and/or include a vehicular mount and/or vehicular interfaces such as to external antennas and to a Controller Area Network (CAN Bus), etc., and any combination thereof. Further, as discussed throughout, it is contemplated that the HPUE200may designed to be used in adverse environments, for example by first responders, police, and military.

The power supply212may be configured to power at least one of the processor214, the memory216, the location radio218, the n-axis accelerometer219, the WLAN radio220, and the WWAN radio240. The power supply212may be embodied as an energy storage (e.g. rechargeable battery), or as part of an external power supply (e.g., AC wall power, DC car adapter, etc.). The processor214may be communicably coupled to at least one of the memory216, the location radio218, the n-axis accelerometer219the WLAN radio220, and the WWAN radio240.

The HPUE200may be configured to communicably couple with WLAN300(FIG.2) and WWAN400(FIG.2) simultaneously. In particular, the WLAN radio220, is broadly understood to include any RF equipment configured to communicate over a desired WLAN, such as WLAN300, for example. Similarly, the WWAN radio240is broadly understood to include any RF equipment configured to communicate over a desired WWAN, such as WWAN400, for example. Further, and as discussed in detail below, the WWAN radio240may be configured to communicate over greater ranges and greater attenuation than conventional WWAN radios.

According to one embodiment, the WLAN radio220may include a WLAN transceiver/MODEM222communicably coupled to a WLAN antenna (e.g., MIMO antenna)224, together configured to communicate over the WLAN300. According to one embodiment, WLAN radio220may be embodied as or otherwise include a personal area network (PAN) radio.

According to one embodiment, WWAN radio240may include a first WWAN transceiver/MODEM, a high power port communicably coupled to the first WWAN transceiver/MODEM, and configured as a duplex chain including a high power amplifier, a frequency duplexer, and a high power antenna, and a diversity port communicably coupled to the first WWAN transceiver/MODEM, and configured as a complementary receive path including a rejection filter and a diversity antenna. As shown, a WWAN transceiver/MODEM242may be communicably coupled to a full duplex (transmit and receive) high power port244and to a half-duplex (receive) diversity port245, together configured to communicate over WWAN400.

The high power port244may be configured as a duplex chain including a high power amplifier252, a high power port frequency duplexer254, and an antenna (high power port antenna256). The high power amplifier252may be configured to further amplify a transmission from the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242upstream of the high power port frequency duplexer254. The high power amplifier252provides a fixed or adjustable gain to the uplink transmit signal such that the energy radiated from the antenna port256is sufficient to have an extended range. To illustrate, standard mode WWAN communications are limited in their transmission power, where the current maximum levels allowed are in 100's of milliwatts range (e.g., 0.300 watts). In contrast, the permissible amount of transmit power currently permitted by the standards for Band 14 is 1.25 watts to the antenna256. However, one drawback associated with high power transmissions is the issue is that higher powers create significant issues with battery consumption (due to low efficiency amplifiers traditionally used), out of band issues due to non-linear amplification, and also with raised power levels. Further, traditionally, the receive chain would be designed to not expect that much extra power coupling in, so the diversity chain becomes less sensitive. According to one embodiment, high power amplifier252of the high power port244may be configured to transmit greater than 0.3 watts, 0.5 watts, 1.0 watts, and/or 1.25 watts to the high power antenna256. Alternately, high power amplifier252of the high power port244may be configured to transmit to the high power antenna256in a range of 0.3 watts to 2.0 watts, 0.5 watts to 1.25 watts, of 0.5 watts to 1.0 watts, for example.

The diversity port245may be configured as a complementary receive path including a rejection filter257and a diversity antenna259. The rejection filter257provides protection to the conventional implementations of the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242by reducing the energy level seen by the diversity port245from the transmitted signals out of the high power port antenna256sufficiently such that these higher transmitted powers avoid temporary or permanent performance degradation of the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242.

In operation, the separate high power transmit and receive paths between the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242and the high power antenna256may be duplexed via the high power port frequency duplexer254. Further, transmissions to the high power antenna256from the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242may be amplified via the high power amplifier252, extending the transmission range. Also, receptions from the high power antenna256may be communicated directly to the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242on an isolated receive path. More particularly, For example, the frequency duplexer254may be functionally coupled to and between the high power amplifier252and the high power antenna256, and is further functionally coupled to the receive port237(FIG.4) of the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242, the frequency duplexer254may be configured to isolate the receive port237of the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242from transmissions of the high power amplifier252. Advantageously, the inter-networking device (HPUE200) may extend network connectivity over the WWAN400by having a high power transmit chain that more closely balances the communications link. Conventional transceivers require additional external functionality to meet full performance requirements that are possible in a wireless network.

Here, the radio frequency (RF) front end (RFFE) (high power port244and diversity port245) provides a method to integrate high power capability into the inter-networking device while maintaining transmit and receive performance levels.

Advantageously, the RFFE uses techniques illustrated here and discussed further below permit conventional RF transceiver devices and technologies to be used. However, as illustrated, adding the high-power amplifier252in the chain may obligate the use of a more stringent duplexer and receive filtering when compared to architectures found in most frequency division duplexing devices. In general, the efficient RFFE should be understood to be able to support any and all WWAN radio constellations, able to support all WWAN power levels, able to pass without external circuitry all regulatory requirements, able to versatile in support for enhanced operations such as MIMO, diversity, able to be frequency nimble, versatile and independent, able to sustain MDS through all transmit power levels, reduction of AGC and AFC scintillation that causes issues in the demod, etc.

According to one embodiment, and as discussed above, the rejection filter257of the WWAN radio240may be configured to maintain a preferred link budget (i.e., preferring the HPUE200) through an operational range of the high power amplifier252.

For example, the WWAN radio240of the HPUE200may utilize a rejection filter257configured to maintain a preferred link budget of approximately 4 decibel (dB) or less.

Furthermore, the high power port frequency duplexer254can be selected or otherwise be configured to handle the higher power output from the amplifier chain and reject the transmit power energy sufficiently on the receive chain of the high power port frequency duplexer254such that the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242will be able to meet performance requirements and avoid damage or signal degradation. For example, modern-day integrated transceiver devices are extremely sensitive, and expect to receive signal levels below the microwatt range. Transceiver input signal levels in the 10's of microwatts can cause performance degradation, and levels in the milliwatt range can cause permanent damage to the transceiver. Conventional frequency duplexers used in most cellphones reduce the transmit energy to the transceiver by less than a factor of one million. In addition to the fact these duplexers cannot handle the power levels on the transmit input, this energy reduction into the transceiver will degrade the receiver performance. When using high power, the energy reduction must be much greater than this and may be on the order of a factor of 10 millionth or more. The high power port frequency duplexer254also may restrict other out-of-band emissions to include harmonics and noise that may interfere with external or internal functions. The bandstop filter reduces the transmit energy in the receive chain such that 7 integrated circuit transceiver solutions can be used without causing damage to the device.

FIG.4schematically illustrates a detail section of the extended range wireless inter-networking device ofFIG.3, according to one embodiment of the disclosure. As above, the WWAN radio240may include the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242the high power port244and the diversity port245.

According to one embodiment, the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242may include a WWAN MODEM, a WWAN transceiver, and a multi-mode power amplifier, the WWAN MODEM functionally coupled to the WWAN transceiver, the WWAN transceiver including a transmit port, a receive port, and a diversity receive port, the transmit port functionally coupled to the multi-mode power amplifier, said multi-mode power amplifier functionally coupled to the high power amplifier, the receive port functionally coupled to the frequency duplexer, the diversity receive port functionally coupled to the rejection filter. In particular and as shown, the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242may include a WWAN MODEM232, a WWAN transceiver234, and a multi-mode power amplifier236. The WWAN MODEM232may be functionally coupled to the WWAN transceiver234. The WWAN transceiver234may have a transmit port235and a receive port237, as well as a diversity receive port239.

As shown, the transmit port235may be functionally coupled to the multi-mode power amplifier236, which may be functionally coupled to the high power amplifier252. Similarly, the receive port237may be functionally coupled to the high power port frequency duplexer254. Similarly, the diversity receive port239may be functionally coupled to the rejection filter257or the diversity antenna259.

According to one embodiment, the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242may be embodied in a single package, including the WWAN MODEM232, the WWAN transceiver234, and the multi-mode power amplifier236, using conventional technology, as discussed above. According to another embodiment, the WWAN MODEM232, the WWAN transceiver234, and the multi-mode power amplifier236may be embodied as discrete components, and may be further embodied using conventional components.

Beneficially, the WWAN radio240as described herein may provide for improved performance. It should be understood that operation of the WWAN radio240at high power, may also require significant limiter and rejection filtering, which decreases sensitivity. However, the decrease in sensitivity of the receiver, may diminish reception or ultimately lead to a reduction in the range that the WWAN radio240could operate. Thus, as discussed above, if one overly rejects the incoming signal without regard for the amount of amplification the effect, unbalances the link budget and tilts the shortfall to be downlink (rather the previously corrected uplink unbalance).

Here, aspects of the WWAN radio240, together or in isolation, address these problems. First, the WWAN radio240may incorporate the efficient RFFE disclosed herein and be appropriately balanced for performance/capability without degradation and include drawing of antenna and filtering of RFFE to avoid desense and enable the extended range benefits associated with high power transmissions.

Second, as discussed above, rejection filtering if too strong makes the receiver believe the signal is further away than it truly is, and here the WWAN radio240may incorporate the rejection filter specifically tuned to that of the power transmitted (including non-linear harmonics and VSWR issues in transmit chain).

Third, as discussed above the WWAN radio240may incorporate various embodiments of the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242. Further, the WWAN radio240may include a higher performance modem. For example, the WWAN transceiver/MODEM242may be selected or otherwise configured to be able to meet regulatory requirements of multiple bands while transmitting up to 8 dB above standard max RF power levels which results in a doubling of the acceptable performance range before LOS, to provide expanded coverage and range while being power efficient to allow for operation for duration of work shift event, and to operate with WWANs to select best performance trading off power and operational speed with coverage and range needed

Beneficially, the WWAN radio240as described herein may provide for improved thermal control. As above, high power operation typically results higher heat and power consumption, which typically results in shortened battery life. This may be a problem especially when the HPUE200(FIG.2), for example, acting as a mobile gateway, could be body worn creating a personal area network (PAN). With the First Responders there is a need to provide data and voice coverage into remote locations previously not accessible using traditional WWAN techniques. Merely using a more powerful transmitter in the WWAN radio240might provide extended range transmissions, but, as discussed above, this may significantly increase the heat generated by the device. Furthermore, additional heat dissipation techniques are not typically available on body mounted devices, this additional heat may become intolerable to a wearer, and even arrive to the point of degrading the electronics by surpassing operational tolerances of the ICs (e.g., during persistent operations).

Here, aspects of the WWAN radio240, together or in isolation, address these problems typically associated with power increase scaling. First, the WWAN radio240may incorporate efficient power amplifier(s) (e.g., 25% or greater efficiency) that balances a reduced power consumption and waste heat generation with the desired increased performance. Second and as discussed below (FIG.6), the WWAN radio240may incorporate close loop controls (e.g., feedback monitoring/control of amplification and/or output).

These features the WWAN radio240, together or in isolation, may advantageously minimize the battery life degradation, and also minimize the costly components of a multi-stage power amplifier and secondary amplification at the antenna.

Furthermore, the embodiment goes beyond traditional design implementation to focus on the high power transmissions and anticipated signal reception to provide enhanced filtering for the receive chain to ensure the modem optimizes signal power to correctly balance the link budget saving power, battery life and minimizing heat and protecting circuits.

FIG.5schematically illustrates a detail section of an extended range wireless inter-networking device, according to another embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, the HPUE may include a MIMO WWAN radio540. Here, “MIMO” is used for clarity as well to relate to Multiple-Input-Multiple-Output where multiple antennas are used at both the source (transmitter) and the destination (receiver). The antennas at each end of the communications circuit are combined to minimize errors and optimize data speed. MIMO operation may incorporate just one additional duplexed transmit and receive pair or a multiple of duplexed transmit and receive pairs. The diagram assumes all duplexed channels will include a MIMO high power amplifier552it does not preclude only using a subset of the MIMO transmit chains in a high power mode. There may be a no diversity receive ports, a single diversity receive port, or a multiple diversity receive ports.

Similar to above, a MIMO WWAN radio540, shown here, may include the WWAN MODEM232communicably coupled to a MIMO WWAN transceiver534configured for MIMO communications (e.g., including the transmit port235, the receive port237, and the diversity receive port239, as well as at least one MIMO transmit port535and at least one MIMO receive port537). Also as above, the WWAN modem, WWAN transceiver, and multi-mode amplifiers may be discrete or packaged together. Further, the MIMO WWAN radio540may include the diversity port245having the rejection filter257and a diversity antenna259as discussed above.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the MIMO WWAN radio540may also include the multi-mode power amplifier236and at least one MIMO multi-mode power amplifier536, each functionally coupled and configure to amplify its respective duplex chain. It will be appreciated by one skilled in the telecommunications art that the MIMO components may represent 1-to-N duplex chains.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the MIMO WWAN radio540may further include a MIMO high power port544downstream of the packaged or discrete multi-mode amplifiers236,536, the MIMO high power port544being configured to for MIMO communications. In particular, the MIMO high power port544may be configured as 2-to-N duplex chains including a first duplex chain including the high power amplifier252, the high power port frequency duplexer254, and the high power port antenna256, and 1-to-N additional duplex chains of, for example, including a MIMO high power amplifier552, a MIMO frequency duplexer554and a MIMO high power port antenna556. Each duplex chain may be configure as discussed above and integrated into the MIMO architecture of MIMO WWAN radio540.

FIG.6schematically illustrates a detail section of an extended range wireless inter-networking device, according to another embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, the HPUE may include an efficient WWAN radio640. Here, “efficient” is used for clarity as well to relate to an amplifier that provides the high output power using a low amount of additional power to provide such an amplification while still maintaining the stringent spectral requirements that the standards and regulatory bodies require. There are various techniques that can be employed to attain such efficiency. Such embodiments may include the use of techniques to decrease the peak power consumption of the signal and applying techniques to track the amplitude of the amplifier such that the minimal amount of power is lost to thermal energy with minimal impact to the transmit performance of the signal.

Similar to above, the efficient WWAN radio640may include the WWAN MODEM232, the WWAN transceiver234, and the multi-mode power amplifier236, which may be discrete or packaged. Likewise, efficient WWAN radio640may include the diversity port245having the rejection filter257and a diversity antenna259.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the efficient WWAN radio640may further include an efficient high power port644configured to for efficient communications. In particular, the efficient high power port644may be configured as a duplex chain including the high power port frequency duplexer254and the high power port antenna256, as discussed above. Further, the efficient high power port644may include an efficient high power amplifier652and a waveform processor655. For example, as shown here the efficient high power amplifier652includes a feedback loop configured to monitor an output of the efficient high power amplifier (e.g., incorporating the waveform processor655). Further, the feedback loop is configured to modify the output in response to the feedback loop.

According to one embodiment, the efficient high power amplifier652may be a single stage amplifier, or alternately a multistage amplifier. The efficient high power amplifier652may be functionally coupled to the multi-mode power amplifier236, and configured to further amplify transmissions output from the multi-mode power amplifier236. Also, the waveform processor655may be functionally coupled to the multi-mode power amplifier236and the efficient high power amplifier253. Further, waveform processor655may be configured to reduce the peak amplitude requirements of the amplifier, track the signal amplitude to permit the high power amplifier652to attain a high efficiency ratio, and/or modify the signal such that the amplifier operates at a high efficiency while maintaining the required linearity and spectral requirements mandated by the standards and regulatory bodies. The waveform process may do this analyzing the signal and dynamically modifying it to meet the efficiency and spectral requirements. Another embodiment may also integrate the amplifier output fed back to the waveform processor to make the analysis and adjustments of the signal.

FIG.7schematically illustrates an extended range wireless inter-networking system, according to another embodiment of the disclosure. Here, an inter-networking system101is shown according to one exemplary embodiment, and including a HPUE201configured to communicate with multiple channels, multiple networks, and/or across diverse technologies.

To illustrate, similar to above, the HPUE201may be configured to communicably couple with multiple end user devices310,320,330via the WLAN300. Further, the HPUE201may be configured to communicably couple with a plurality of WWANs (e.g., WWAN1401, WWAN2402, and WWAN3403) simultaneously, and simultaneously with the multiple end user devices310,320,330. Thus, inter-networking system101may include at least a two WWANs (e.g., WWAN1401and WWAN2402) with the HPUE201being configured to communicate at least one base station of each, and according to a two separate WWAN communication protocols (e.g., a cellular network standard/protocol and public safety band standard/protocol).

Similarly, and according to one embodiment, the HPUE201may be further configured to communicably couple with the multiple end user devices310,320,330via a plurality of WLANs (not shown). As discussed below, WWAN1401, WWAN2402, and WWAN3403are broadly contemplated, and may each include any one of diverse channels within a network (e.g., Public Safety band and carrier communications band of an end user device), diverse networks (e.g., different carrier networks), and/or diverse WWAN technologies (e.g., LTE, WiMAX, UMTS, CDMA2000, GSM, 5G, etc.). According to one embodiment, WWAN1401may be a public band (e.g., LTE Public Safety Band 14) and WWAN1402may be a carrier communications band of the end user device310(e.g., Verizon LTE network, AT&T 5G network, etc.).

FIG.8schematically illustrates an extended range wireless inter-networking device, according to another embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, an exemplary HPUE201is shown including two distinct transmission ports. Here, the HPUE201may include the housing210, the power supply212, the processor214, the memory216, the WLAN radio220, as discussed above, and may also include a WWAN radio840as discussed further below. According to one embodiment, the HPUE201may further include the location radio218and/or the n-axis accelerometer219as discussed above.

The HPUE201may be configured to communicably couple with WLAN300(FIG.7) and a plurality of WWANs401,402,403(FIG.7) individually and/or simultaneously.

According to one embodiment, WWAN radio840may include a multi-band WWAN chipset842(e.g., transceiver/MODEM/multi-mode amplifier) communicably coupled to a full duplex (transmit and receive) high power port244, to a half-duplex (receive) diversity port245, as discussed above, and to a full duplex (transmit and receive) standard power port844, together configured to communicate over one or more of WWAN1401, WWAN2402, and WWAN3403. It should be understood that the high power port244is conveniently selected for illustration purposes, and may be substituted by the MIMO High Power Port544(FIG.5) or the Efficient High Power Port644(FIG.6), each discussed above. It should be further understood that additional WWAN radios may include a traditional WWAN chipset e.g., additional/second WWAN transceiver/MODEM/multi-mode amplifier1043(FIG.10), communicably coupled to, and configured as a standard duplex chain including a standard frequency duplexer1054(FIG.10), and a standard power port antenna856(FIG.10). Accordingly, communications over the standard power port844may approximate those of current WWAN communications, whereas the high power port244(and other embodiments) may provide the benefits of communications over greater ranges and greater attenuation than conventional WWAN radios, as well as additional benefits discussed herein. In one embodiment, the traditional WWAN standard power port844may include a standard power port rejection filter857configured to exclude the high power port energy received on the standard power port antenna856. For example and as discussed above, the standard power port844may be configured to transmit at a first maximum power level (e.g. below 0.3 watts), and the high power port may be adapted and configured to transmit at a second maximum power level, said second maximum power level being greater than said first maximum power level, for example by a factor of greater than six (e.g., >8 dB), or alternately a factor equal to or greater than four.

FIG.9schematically illustrates a detail section of the extended range wireless inter-networking device ofFIG.8, according to one embodiment of the disclosure. As above, the WWAN radio840may include the WWAN transceiver/MODEM842, the standard power port844, the high power port244, and the diversity port245, where the standard power port844approximates state of the art equipment and the high power port244provides enhanced connectivity, with each utilizing the diversity port245in reception.

According to one embodiment, the WWAN transceiver/MODEM842may include a WWAN MODEM232, a WWAN transceiver834, a multi-mode power amplifier836, and a standard frequency duplexer854. The WWAN MODEM232may be functionally coupled to the WWAN transceiver834. As above, the WWAN transceiver834may have a transmit port235, a first receive port237(part of the high power port244), and a diversity receive port239. However, the WWAN transceiver834may also have a second receive port837as part of the standard power port844). The two receive ports may be configured internal to the WWAN transceiver834where the transceiver has one or more additional ports to support such an input or the signals may be switched just external to the WWAN transceiver834. An alternate embodiment of the transmit chain from the WWAN transceiver834may have two transmit ports where a separate one is routed to the amplifier stages using the transmit port235on the high power port and an additional standard power transmit port routed to its own amplifier. Other architectures are contemplated, for example, most cellphone implementations have a multi-mode amplifier, and the transceiver may use the same transmit port, though some implementations have multiple ports going into the amplifier, and some have multiple amplifiers.

As shown, the multi-mode power amplifier836may be functionally coupled to both the standard frequency duplexer854(standard transmissions) and the high power amplifier252(boosted transmissions). Also, the first receive port237may be functionally coupled to the high power port frequency duplexer254of the high power port244, and the second receive port837may be functionally coupled to the standard frequency duplexer854of the standard power port844. Further, the diversity receive port239may be functionally coupled to the rejection filter257. In the standard embodiment, the multi-mode amplifier836has two output ports where one is routed to the standard frequency duplexer854and the other is routed to the high power amplifier252. One alternate embodiments may share the multi-mode amplifier836output with a switch to direct the amplified output accordingly. Another embodiment may have transceiver ports and amplifiers.

As above, according to one embodiment, the WWAN transceiver/MODEM842may embodied in a single package, including the WWAN MODEM232, the WWAN transceiver834, and the multi-mode power amplifier836. According to another embodiment, the WWAN MODEM232, the WWAN transceiver834, and the multi-mode power amplifier836may be embodied as discrete components. According to yet another embodiment, the WWAN transceiver/MODEM842may be modified from conventional components/chipsets to integrate the high power port244. In such an embodiment, the WWAN transceiver834may have multiple ports to support these multiple paths.

FIG.10schematically illustrates an extended range wireless inter-networking device, according to another embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, an exemplary HPUE203is shown including two distinct WWAN transceiver/MODEMs, and for use in an inter-networking system such as inter-networking system101.

As above, the HPUE203may include the housing210, the power supply212, the processor214, the memory216, the WLAN radio220, as discussed above, and may also include a WWAN radio1040as discussed further below. According to one embodiment, the HPUE203may further include the location radio218and/or the n-axis accelerometer219as discussed above. Also as above, the HPUE203may be configured to communicably couple with WLAN300(FIG.7) and a plurality of WWANs401,402,403(FIG.7) individually and/or simultaneously.

According to one embodiment, WWAN radio1040may include a high power port WWAN transceiver/MODEM as discussed above (here, high power port WWAN transceiver/MODEM1042) and a standard power port1044including an additional WWAN transceiver/MODEM1043. As above, the high power port WWAN transceiver/MODEM1042may be communicably coupled to the full duplex high power port244and to a half-duplex (receive) diversity port1045(discussed further below). Similarly, the standard power port WWAN transceiver/MODEM1043may be communicably coupled to a full duplex (transmit and receive) standard power port1044including a standard frequency duplexer1054and the standard power port antenna856, akin to the RFFE of a conventional mobile wireless communication device.

According to one embodiment, at least one of the high power port244and the standard power port1044may be configured as a MIMO port such as the MIMO high power port544(FIG.5) discussed above. Also, according to another embodiment, the high power port244may be configured as the efficient high power port644(FIG.6).

According to yet another embodiment, the standard power port WWAN transceiver/MODEM1043and the standard power port1044may be embodied as a RFFE of a conventional mobile wireless communication device (e.g., mobile communication device320inFIG.2), while the HPUE203is further modified to include a high power port such as the high power port244, the MIMO high power port544, and/or the efficient high power port644.

According to yet another embodiment, the diversity antenna259in one embodiment may be used or otherwise shared for both the WWAN transceiver/MODEM1042and the WWAN transceiver/MODEM1043diversity inputs. As shown, the diversity port1045may further include a shared rejection filter1057similar to above. Alternately, the WWAN radio1040may utilize two separate antenna and diversity receive paths.

Both WWAN transceiver/MODEMs may operate simultaneously in an independent fashion, separately under user or processor control, or through coordination by a radio control processor which may be processor214. The output streams from the WWAN radio1040may have two separate streams or be combined to have one individual data stream.

FIG.12schematically illustrates an extended range wireless inter-networking device, according to another embodiment of the disclosure. Here, a high power user equipment (“HPUE”) is shown as a portable wireless access point2000configured for extended range communications, according to one exemplary embodiment. It should be appreciated that many, if not all components and features disclosed above are similarly applicable here, however, for clarity, new reference numbers are used.

As shown, the portable wireless access point2000may include a wireless wide area network (WWAN) interface2400and a wireless local area network (WLAN) interface2200communicably coupled together via an inter-networker2500, such that a WLAN user (e.g., via mobile communication device) may access a WWAN via the portable wireless access point2000. As mentioned above, aspects of the WLAN interface2200may be similar to the WLAN radio220discussed above (and vis versa). Likewise, aspects of the WWAN interface2400may be similar to the WWAN radio240discussed above (and vis versa).

The portable wireless access point2000may further include a user interface2600configured to initiate and terminate operation of the portable wireless access point2000. According to one preferred embodiment, the user interface2600may be a simplified user control configured to merely allow the user to command the portable wireless access point2000between an operational state and an inoperable state (e.g., “on and off” switch/control). Further, the user interface2600may include display configured to indicate the status of the portable wireless access point2000. (e.g., LED off, LED on, LED flashing on). In some embodiments, the status may represent a data connection status as discussed below.

According to one embodiment, the portable wireless access point2000may further include a plurality of antennas2700. In particular, the plurality of antennas2700may include one or more antennas configured for each wireless network, or a subset thereof. For example, the plurality of antennas2700may include at least one of: one or more WLAN antennas, one or more WWAN antennas, and one or more diversity antennas. In addition, the plurality of antennas2700may include one or more location antennas configured for a location radio. One or more of the plurality of antennas may be integrated into its associated radio or communicably coupled as a separate component, for example, via a wireless or (preferably) a wired connection.

The portable wireless access point2000may further include an enclosure2100configured to house at least one of the WWAN interface2400, the WLAN interface2500, and the inter-networker2500. According to one preferred embodiment, as shown, the enclosure2100may house all three of the WWAN interface2400, the WLAN interface2200, and the inter-networker2500. According to one embodiment, the user interface2600may be affixed to the enclosure2100. Further, the user interface2600may be located and/or operable externally of the enclosure2100. Alternately, the user interface2600may be may be located and/or operable internally and accessible wirelessly and/or via opening at least a portion of the enclosure2100. According to one embodiment the enclosure2100may be ruggedized and/or made to meet one or more environmental standards related to outdoor use or use in rugged/harsh environments.

FIG.13schematically illustrates an extended range wireless inter-networking device, showing an alternate arrangement of its enclosure, according to one embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, a portable wireless access point2001may be similar to the portable wireless access point2000above (and going forward), however including an enclosure2101that is generally accessible by a user. In particular, enclosure may generally be an enclosed structure, yet include at least opening or access port. For example, the enclosure2101may be embodied as a clamshell case that is pivotably accessible via a case fastener (e.g., a conventional toolless fastener such as a draw latch) and at least one case hinge (pivot hinge2110). In this arrangement, an upper section may be lifted up (e.g., while resting on a flat surface, as shown) and pivoting away from a lower section, and exposing or otherwise providing access to the user interface2600. Thus, as illustrated, the user interface2600may be located internally of and/or operable from within the enclosure2100, limiting its access to first opening at least a portion of the enclosure2101.

According to one embodiment, the enclosure2101may be segmented or otherwise arranged to provide varying degrees of access based on a use requirement. In particular, the enclosure2101may include (1) an operator section2107that is generally unsecured, or merely secured against access via one or more toolless fasteners, (2) a maintenance section2108that is lightly secured, or generally secured against access via a one or more fasteners that require a standard tool (e.g., screwdriver) to open, and (3) a protected section2109that is highly secured against access, requiring a unique security device (e.g., key) or destruction of the enclosure2101for access (e.g., embedded within one or more walls of the case.

For example, with regard to the operator section2107, the user interface2600may be readily accessible by releasing a quick release fastener and opening a top half or access panel of the enclosure2101. According to one embodiment, portions of the enclosure2101may include indica within the operator section2107, directed toward the user. In particular, internal portions of the enclosure2101may include written communications or other indicia, such as access point name and password(s), use instructions, warnings, ownership and proprietary information, and the like.

Also for example, with regard to the maintenance section2108, a lower half (ref., when the enclosure2101is sitting flat on a horizontal surface) of the clamshell may be configured to house modular, plug-and-play components that are field replaceable (e.g., WWAN interface2400, WLAN interface2200, the inter-networker2500, and/or a power supply2120). Similarly, an upper half (ref., when the enclosure2101is sitting flat on a horizontal surface) of the clamshell may also be configured to house modular, plug-and-play components that are field replaceable (e.g., antennas2700). Beneficially, this separation may provide for improved antenna performance and reduced RF interaction with other onboard electronics.

Further, one or both of the lower half and the upper half may be internally enclosed by an internal access panel2105such that the access panel2105must also be removed after accessing the operator section2107(e.g., after opening the clamshell case). Preferably, the access panel2105may be secured in place by screws or other fasteners that are not toollessly removable. Each modular, plug-and-play component may be removably affixed to portions of the enclosure2100within the maintenance section2108and appropriately coupleable to each other (e.g., power, communications, signaling, etc.) and/or coupleable to external ports via conventional interconnections (e.g., Ethernet cables, USB cables, AC power cables, DC power cables, etc.). According to one embodiment, one or both access panels2105may be configured so as to electromagnetically shield modular components within each upper and lower half, respectively, and/or to enhance antenna performance (e.g., creating a ground plane, aid directionality, reduce interference, etc.).

Also for example, with regard to the protected section2109, an upper wall (ref., when the enclosure2101is sitting flat on a horizontal surface) of the clamshell may be configured to house components that are generally not field replaceable, contain permanent identifying information (e.g., NFC/RFID tags, embedded antennas, etc.), and/or require special/authorized access to modify (e.g., SIM card, memory cards, user interface, etc.). These areas may be sealed within the enclosure2101or may be physically secured by a locking plate2106, for example requiring a non-standard tool or key for user access. As illustrated (right hand side), this may be an alternate embodiment of the upper half of the enclosure2101wherein the locking plate2106is permanently fixed or only removable via key or a limited access tool. As above, the locking plate2106may be configured so as to electromagnetically shield modular components within at least of the upper and lower half, and/or to enhance antenna performance.

Returning toFIG.12, as shown, the enclosure2100may include or otherwise support and house: a power supply2120configured to power onboard components via a power distribution network2126; an environment control subsystem2130configured to maintain an operating environment within the enclosure2100; and/or the plurality of antennas2700configured for each wireless network, or a subset thereof and/or a location radio (as discussed above).

The enclosure2100may further include a variety of physical interfaces, including but not limited to at least one of a power input port2111, a power output port2112, a cooling inlet2113, a cooling outlet2114, a communication port2116, and an antenna port2118. The power input port2111, the power output port2112, the communication port2116, and the antenna port2118may be any conventional port configured to interface with a standardized or proprietary connector, as appropriate. To illustrate, the power input port2111may include a conventional DC power jack, the power output port2112may include a USB-type slot, the communication port2116may include an Ethernet receptacle, and the antenna port2118may include a coaxial cable receptacle, to name a few. Further, each port may be located in any convenient location (e.g. all on one side, all inputs on one side and all outputs on an opposite side, proximate its connected module, etc.) Similarly, the cooling inlet(s) and outlet(s) may be made and positioned for performance, use case, or any other desirable criteria, as discussed further below.

FIG.14schematically illustrates a detail section of the extended range wireless inter-networking device ofFIG.12, showing aspects of the power supply, according to one embodiment of the disclosure. As shown, the power supply2120may generally include an energy storage2122electronically coupled to the power distribution network2126(FIG.12). For example, the energy storage2122may include a battery (e.g., rechargeable Li-Ion battery) configured to receive, store, and deliver DC power (e.g., 12 VDC). According to one embodiment, the energy storage2122may be embodied as a power pack configured to receive and store DC power, and to deliver DC and/or AC power. It should be appreciated that the power supply2120may include additional conventional components and features as appropriate, and which are well-known in the art.

The power supply2120may further include a power converter2124electronically coupled between the energy storage2122and the power distribution network2126. In particular, the power converter2124may be configured to convert power delivered by the energy storage2122to any onboard need via any conventional means.

For example, the power converter2124may include DC-to-DC converter configured to buck/boost battery voltage as appropriate. Also for example, the power converter2124may include an DC-to-AC converter (inverter) configured to meet any onboard AC requirement. Also for example, the power converter2124may include any combination of one or more converters (converters, inverters, and rectifiers). According to one embodiment, the power converter2124may include an AC-to-DC converter (rectifier/AC adapter) configured to convert standard AC power to meet an onboard requirement such as onboard bus power (e.g., 120 VAC-to-12 VDC). This may be particularly beneficial where the energy storage2122is embodied as a conventional, and modular power pack configured to receive and store DC power, and to deliver AC power.

The power supply2120may further include a charger2121electronically coupled between an external power supply99and the energy storage2122. In particular, the charger2121may be configured to convert offboard AC power (e.g., wall power) to DC power for charging the energy storage2122. Beneficially, in this way the portable wireless access point2000may be recharged by merely plugging it into a conventional wall outlet. According to one embodiment, the power supply2120may be further configured to power the power distribution network2126directly by the external power supply99(e.g., bypassing one or more components of the power supply2120and/or bypassing but with a parallel battery charge).

As shown, the power distribution network2126may include a direct current (“DC”) circuit2126D and/or an alternating current (“AC”) circuit2126A. In particular and as described above, where the energy storage2122is a battery, the power converter2124may include a DC-to-DC converter configured to convert DC power from a battery voltage (e.g., 3.7 VDC, 6 VDC, 12 VDC etc.) to: a DC bus voltage (e.g., 5, VDC, 12 VDC, 24 VDC, etc.); one or more discrete or localized onboard DC voltages; and/or one or more offboard DC voltages; and to power one or more components over the DC circuit2126D.

Further, the power converter2124may include a DC-to-AC converter configured to convert DC power at a battery voltage to AC power at: an AC bus voltage (e.g., 120 VAC); one or more onboard AC voltages; and/or one or more offboard AC voltages; and to power one or more components over the AC circuit2126A.

The power supply2120may be configured to interface with the power input port2111and/or the power output port2112(FIG.12). In particular, the power supply2120may be configured to be charged and/or directly powered via the power input port2111. Similarly, the power supply2120may be configured to power and/or charge external devices via the power output port2112. As disclosed above, the power input port2111may include an onboard charger or other electronics, where appropriate, to conform available external power99(FIG.12) to the requirements of the power supply2120.

FIG.15schematically illustrates a detail section of the extended range wireless inter-networking device ofFIG.12, showing aspects of the plurality of antennas, according to one embodiment of the disclosure. As above, the WLAN interface2200(FIG.12) may include or otherwise be electronically coupled to one or more WLAN antennas2720, included the plurality of antennas2700. Also as above, the WWAN interface2400(FIG.12) may include or otherwise be electronically coupled to one or more standard port WWAN antennas2730, one or more high power port WWAN antennas2740, one or more diversity port WWAN antennas2750, and one or more location antennas2780, included the plurality of antennas2700. According to one preferred embodiment, the plurality of antennas2700may include three LTE antennas, two Wi-Fi antennas, and one GPS antenna.

Preferably, the plurality of antennas2700will be embodied as an independent module embedded or otherwise attached to the enclosure2100(FIG.12), remote from their respective radios. Further, the plurality of antennas2700may be electronically coupled back to their respective radios located elsewhere in the enclosure2100, via cabling and connectors. According to one embodiment, one or more of the plurality of antennas2700may be active and powered via the power supply2120(FIG.12).

Preferably, one or more of the plurality of antennas2700may be high-gain antennas that utilize being remote from their respective radio modules for increased size and directionality. For example, one or more of the plurality of antennas2700may be located in or proximate a surface of the enclosure2100that is outward facing, larger than their respective radio modules, and/or shielded from other electronics. According to one embodiment, one or more of the plurality of antennas2700may be removable or otherwise extendable from the enclosure2100.

FIG.16schematically illustrates a detail section of the extended range wireless inter-networking device ofFIG.12, showing aspects of the environment control subsystem, according to one embodiment of the disclosure. As above, the enclosure2100(FIG.12) may include or otherwise support and house the environment control system2130configured to maintain a desired operating environment (e.g., maintain a desired thermal range) within the enclosure2100. In particular, the environment control system2130may be arranged as an open-loop cooling system (i.e., ingesting ambient air into and exhausting heated air from the enclosure2100to the environment) and/or as a closed-loop cooling system (i.e., exhausting heated air or otherwise expelling heat from the environment control system2130to the environment via a heat exchanger).

According to one embodiment, the environment control system2130may include one or more sensors2134(e.g., temperature sensors, humidity, etc.), a local controller2136, and any other conventional components or features. For example, the local controller2136may be configured to engage or otherwise operate the environment control system2130once a threshold condition is sensed by one or more sensors2134(e.g., temperature or humidity out of acceptable limits). While the sensor(s)2134and local controller2136are illustrated for clarity as independent items, it is understood that one or more components of the environment control system2130may be embedded in another component or otherwise be a shared resource (e.g. the local controller2136and sensor2134may integrated into a fan unit or the inter-networker2500).

According to one embodiment, the cooling inlet2113and/or the cooling outlet2114may include filters (e.g., membrane filters) and covers (e.g., dust covers, water seals, etc.) configured to maintain the interior of the enclosure2100free of debris, contaminants, and other harmful substances, during operation and storage, respectively.

In some embodiments, the covers of the cooling inlet2113and/or the cooling outlet2114may seal the interior of the enclosure2100when installed.

According to one preferable embodiment, the environment control system2130will be arranged as an open-loop cooling system. For example, the environment control system2130may merely include at least one fan fluidly coupled to at least one of the cooling inlet2113and the cooling outlet2114, where the fan is configured to pump cooler air from the environment into the enclosure2100and/or heated air from the enclosure2100to the environment, respectively.

According to one embodiment, the environment control system2130may be arranged as a closed-loop cooling system where the environment control system2130further includes a heat exchanger2132fluidly interspersed between the cooling inlet2113and the cooling outlet2114. In particular, the heat exchanger2132may be configured to receive heat from the enclosure2100via the environment control system2130, and the environment control system2130is then configured to expel heat to the environment, without introducing ambient air into the rest of the enclosure2100, beyond the environment control system2130.

FIG.17schematically illustrates a detail section of the extended range wireless inter-networking device ofFIG.12, showing aspects of the WLAN interface, according to one embodiment of the disclosure. As above, the portable wireless access point2000(FIG.12) may include the WLAN interface2200communicably coupled together with the WWAN interface2400(FIG.12) via the inter-networker2500(FIG.12). Further, the WLAN interface2200may be similar to or otherwise include aspects similar to the WLAN radio220described above.

Generally, the WLAN interface2200may be arranged as a conventional WLAN router, including a WLAN transceiver/MODEM2220similar to the WLAN transceiver/MODEM222described above. Further, the WLAN interface2200may include a communication port2212(e.g., Ethernet port), a power port2214(e.g., DC jack), or a combination thereof as a communication port configured to receive power (e.g., PoE port). Preferably, the WLAN interface2200will be embodied as an integrated WiFi radio module (e.g., having its own housing, with connections for power and for communications). In this way the WLAN interface2200may be mounted to the enclosure2100as a plug-and-play device requiring only a power and data connection to the inter-networker2500(e.g., an Ethernet connection).

According to one embodiment, the WLAN interface2200may be powered directly by the DC circuit2126D of the power distribution network2126(e.g., via a DC power cable and connector), or indirectly by the DC circuit2126D, for example via a DC power cable and connector to the inter-networker2500. According to another embodiment, the WLAN interface2200may be powered directly by the external power99(e.g., via a DC power cable and connector). According to yet another embodiment, the WLAN interface2200may be powered and communicably coupled via a combined communication and power supply interface (not shown). In particular, the WLAN interface2200may be powered and communicably coupled to the inter-networker2500via a Power-over-Ethernet connection (PoE) connection or a USB type connection.

According to one embodiment, the WLAN interface2200may include or otherwise be electronically coupled to one or more WLAN antennas2720(FIG.15) included the plurality of antennas2700, where the one or more WLAN antennas2720are similar to the various WLAN antennas224discussed above. Preferably, the one or more WLAN antennas2720will be embedded or otherwise encased in enclosure2100but outside of the housing of WLAN interface2200, and communicable coupled via one or more antenna ports2216. Similarly, one or more WLAN antennas2720may be located remotely from the enclosure2100(e.g., vehicle antenna, building antenna, antenna of a separate portable wireless access point2000), and coupled via antenna cabling to the one or more antenna ports2216.

According to one embodiment, the housing of the WLAN interface2200may include heat exchanging/radiating features (e.g., fins, pins, heatsink, etc.) configured to transfer heat from the WLAN interface2200to a coolant fluid (e.g., cooling air) flowing within or through the enclosure2100.

FIG.18schematically illustrates a detail section of the extended range wireless inter-networking device ofFIG.12, showing aspects of a WWAN interface, according to one embodiment of the disclosure. As above, the portable wireless access point2000(FIG.12) may include the WLAN interface2200(FIG.12) communicably coupled together with the WWAN interface2400via the inter-networker2500(FIG.12).

Generally, the WWAN interface2400may be arranged as a WWAN radio, similar to or otherwise including aspects similar to the WWAN radio840described above. Further, the WWAN interface2400may include a communication port2412(e.g., USB type port), a power port2414(e.g., DC jack), or a combination thereof (e.g., USB type port or PoE port). Preferably, the WWAN interface2400will be embodied as an integrated module (e.g., having its own housing, with connections for power and for communications).

According to one embodiment, the WWAN interface2400may be powered directly or indirectly (e.g., through the inter-networker2500) by the DC circuit2126D of the power distribution network2126. Further, the WWAN interface2400may be communicably coupled to the inter-networker2500(e.g., via a USB-type or other data connection). Alternately, the WWAN interface2400may be communicably coupled and powered via a combined communication and power supply interface such as a USB type connection or a PoE connection without requiring a direct power connection. According to one embodiment, the WWAN interface2400may be selectably configured for the option of separate power and communications, or of combined power and communication. Said selection may be user based or automatic, such as whether or not a combined power and communications connection is made, for example.

According to one embodiment and as illustrated, the WWAN interface2400may include a multi-band WWAN chipset2420(e.g., transceiver/MODEM/multi-mode amplifier or equivalent), similar to the multi-band WWAN chipset842discussed above. The multi-band WWAN chipset2420may be communicably coupled to a full duplex high power port2440(similar to high power port244discussed above) and to a full duplex standard power port2430(similar to standard power port844discussed above). According to one embodiment, the WWAN interface2400may further include a half-duplex (receive) diversity port2450(similar to diversity port245discussed above).

Alternately, the WWAN interface2400may include a plurality of WWAN transceiver/MODEMs, as in the alternate embodiments disclosed above. For example, the WWAN interface2400may include a high power port WWAN transceiver/MODEM (such as WWAN transceiver/MODEM1042above) communicably coupled to the high power port2440(and alternately communicably coupled to the diversity port2450), and further include a standard power port WWAN transceiver/MODEM (such as WWAN transceiver/MODEM1043above) communicably coupled to the standard power port2430. This may provide the same or similar additional benefits and functionality discussed above.

The high power port2440and the standard power port2430may be configured to communicate over one or more of WWAN1401, WWAN2402, and WWAN3403(see ref.,FIG.7) or one or more bands within a single WWAN. Further, the high power port2440may be adapted to operate at the same or similar higher power levels for high power communications (relative to the standard power communications of the standard power port2430), discussed above and throughout. For example, the high power port2440may be configured to operate at Class 1 levels, while the standard power port2430may be configured to operate at Class 3 levels.

According to one embodiment, the high power port2440may be configured to communicate as a Power Class 1 mobile radio over a public safety network (e.g., Band 14 at 1.25 W output power), and the standard power port2430may be configured to communicate as a Power Class 3 mobile radio over a standard mobile communication network (e.g., Bands 2, 4, 5, 12, 17, 29, 30, and 66 at 200 mW).

According to one embodiment, the WWAN interface2400may further include or otherwise be electronically coupled to the one or more antennas2700(FIG.15). In particular, the standard power port2430may be electronically coupled to one or more standard port WWAN antennas2730(FIG.15), the high power port2440may be electronically coupled to one or more high power port WWAN antennas2740(FIG.15), and the diversity port2450may be electronically coupled to one or more high power port WWAN antennas2750(FIG.15). The standard port WWAN antenna2730, the high power port WWAN antenna2740, and the high power port WWAN antenna2750may be included the plurality of antennas2700, where the one or more WWAN antennas2730,2740,2750are similar to the various WWAN antennas259,256,856discussed above. Preferably, the one or more WWAN antennas2730,2740,2750will be embedded or otherwise encased in enclosure2100(FIG.12) but outside of the housing of WWAN interface2400, and communicable coupled via one or more antenna ports2416.

According to one embodiment, the WWAN interface2400may further include a location radio2480similar to the location radio218discussed above. Likewise, the location radio2480may include or otherwise be electronically coupled to one or more location antennas2780(FIG.15). According to one embodiment, the WWAN interface2400may further include an n-axis accelerometer2490similar to the n-axis accelerometer219discussed above.

According to one embodiment, the housing of the WWAN interface2400may include heat exchanging/radiating features (e.g., fins, pins, heatsink, etc.) configured to transfer heat from the WWAN interface2400to a coolant fluid (e.g., cooling air) flowing within or through the enclosure2100. Beneficially, these features may improve thermal conductivity between the WWAN interface2400and the environment control subsystem2130(FIG.12), thus improving performance of WWAN interface2400(particularly during high power port communications).

FIG.19schematically illustrates a detail section of the portable wireless access point ofFIG.12, showing aspects of a distributed WWAN interface, according to alternate embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, here the functionality of the high power port has been removed from the housing of the WWAN interface2400(FIG.18) and is shown as a connectable module (or “sleeve”). As shown, the WWAN interface2401may include the same or similar components and features as the WWAN interface2400above (e.g., power, communications, and antenna ports, logic, additional radios, TxRx/MODEM, etc.), however the components and features associated with a conventional WWAN device (e.g., the standard port2430) may be segregated and packaged as a first module (i.e., a standard power WWAN module2402), and the components and features associated with high power communications may be combined and packaged as a second module (i.e., a high power WWAN sleeve2403).

The high power WWAN sleeve2403may be communicably coupled to and powered by the standard power WWAN module2402. In particular, the high power WWAN sleeve2403may include and be arranged as a host for the high power port2440. The high power port2440electronically coupled to one or more high power port WWAN antennas2740via one or more antenna ports2416.

According to one embodiment and as shown, the high power port2440may be coupled to the multi-band WWAN chipset2420of the standard power WWAN module2402. Alternately, the high power port2440may include its own dedicated transceiver/MODEM (not shown). Further, the high power port2440may include any appropriate local logic and power electronics2471for interfacing with the standard power WWAN module2402.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the high power port2440may interface with the standard power WWAN module2402via the local logic and power electronics2470of the standard power WWAN module2402. This may be beneficial where the standard power WWAN module2402and the high power WWAN sleeve2403are singly coupled via a combined communication and power supply interface.

Alternately, the high power port2440may interface directly with the multi-band WWAN chipset2420of the standard power WWAN module2402. This may be beneficial where a dedicated port is provided. For example, where the standard power WWAN module2402is merely a conventional wireless communication device, this dedicated port may be structured as or otherwise analogous to an RF test port.

It should be understood that many different interfacing routes are available, which may be selected based on equipment available and/or specific use case/application. For example, according to one embodiment the high power WWAN sleeve2403may be embedded into or otherwise combined with the inter-networker2500(or an adaption thereof). Beneficially, full functionality of both the high power port2440and the inter-networker2500may complement or otherwise be added to a conventional wireless communication device.

FIGS.20-22schematically illustrates a detail section of the extended range wireless inter-networking device ofFIG.12, showing aspects of an inter-networker, according to different variations of the disclosure. As above, the portable wireless access point2000(FIG.12) may include the WLAN interface2200(FIG.12) communicably coupled together with the WWAN interface2400(FIG.12) via the inter-networker2500.

Generally, the inter-networker2500may be arranged as data converter between WWAN and WLAN communications (e.g., between LTE communications and Ethernet communications), and as an integrator or overall controller of the portable wireless access point2000. Also, the inter-networker2500may be similar to or otherwise include aspects similar to at least one of the power supply212, the processor214, and the memory216described above. Preferably, the inter-networker2500will be embodied as an integrated module (e.g., having its own housing, with connections for power and for communications). For example, one or more components of the inter-networker2500may be housed in a single unit (preferably ruggedized), such as being mounted to a mounting plate, and covered with a casing.

The inter-networker2500may be configured to communicably couple to the WLAN interface2200and communicably couple to the WWAN interface2400. Also, the inter-networker2500may be powered directly or indirectly by the DC circuit2126D of the power distribution network2126. Alternately, the inter-networker2500may be powered by the WLAN interface2200(e.g., via an offboard power supply).

In addition, the inter-networker2500may be further configured to power one or both of the WWAN interface2400and WLAN interface2200. For example, the inter-networker2500may be configured to power one or both of the WWAN interface2400and the WLAN interface2200via a dedicated power supply (see e.g., DC power supply to WWAN interface2400inFIG.20).

Also for example, the inter-networker2500may be configured to power one or both of the WWAN interface2400and the WLAN interface2200via a combined data/power supply (e.g., to WWAN interface2400via USB connection, to WLAN interface2200via a PoE connection, etc.). According to one embodiment, the inter-networker2500may include or otherwise incorporate an Ethernet injector configured to deliver both power and data concurrently via twisted pair Ethernet cabling. In addition, the inter-networker2500may be further configured receive power via the same connection as well, respectively.

According to one embodiment, the inter-networker2500may include one or more communication ports, power ports, or combinations thereof. In particular, the inter-networker2500may include a LAN communication port2522, a WWAN communication port2524, and a power input port2572. In addition, the inter-networker2500may further include a power output port2574. Each of the LAN communication port2522and the WAN communication port2524may be configured as a purely communication port, or as both a communication and power port, as discussed above.

According to one preferred embodiment, each port may be configured to be coupled to a standardized connector. For example, the LAN communication port2522may include a RJ-45 connector and the WWAN communication port2524may include a USB-type connector. Also for example, the power input port2572and the power output port2574may each include a DC power jack. In this way, the inter-networker2500may be integrated into the portable wireless access point2000as a plug-and-play module that merely needs to be mounted and plugged in.

According to one embodiment and as illustrated, the inter-networker2500may include a WWAN-to-LAN module2520and a system controller2540. These may be embodied as software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. Further, while the WAN-to-LAN module2520and the system controller2540are illustrated here as separate items, this is done merely for improved clarity. It should be understood that the WAN-to-LAN module2520and the system controller2540may be embodied as illustrated, combined together, one may be a submodule within the other, or any combination thereof.

The WWAN-to-LAN module2520may include and/or utilize a processor/microcontroller programmed or otherwise configured to seamlessly integrate WAN and LAN communications between the modems of the WWAN interface2400and the WLAN interface2220, respectively. For example, the WWAN-to-LAN module2520may preferably be programmed or otherwise be configured to convert communications between USB 3.0 between Gigabit Ethernet.

The system controller2540may be configured to provide for offboard controller communications, such as network management (particularly over a WWAN). Examples of network management may include remote provisioning, subscription management, and cloud data analytics, to name a few.

Further, the system controller2540may be configured to provide for onboard controller communications, such as status reporting, environment control, power control, port control/access/communications, etc. Onboard controller communications may be communicated over a dedicated link (e.g., direct communications with the user interface2600—as shown), or over a shared resource (e.g., bus communications over the LAN communication port2522with the user interface2600—not shown).

According to one embodiment the system controller2540may also include/integrate, power, and/or otherwise support/complement the WWAN-to-LAN module2520. For example, the WWAN-to-LAN module2520may merely be a module of the system controller2540).

According to one embodiment, the inter-networker2500may be configured to regulate power between a power supply and the electronics of at least one of the WWAN interface2400and the WLAN interface2200. In particular, the inter-networker2500may further include a power converter (i.e., power conditioner2570) configured to convert a supply voltage from, for example, the power distribution network2126(FIG.12), a combined data and power connection, a standard external power supply, etc., to an operational voltage of the WWAN interface2400. Beneficially, in this arrangement, the inter-networker2500may be sufficiently modular to operate the WWAN interface2400independently of the power supply2120(FIG.12), for example, when mounted together as a kit on a portable mounting bracket. As an independent module, the inter-networker2500and the WWAN interface2400may merely require a standard DC input and provide a data connection for a conventional WLAN modem or WLAN modem/router

For example, the power conditioner2570may include a DC-to-DC (buck-boost) converter configured convert a range of diverse supply voltages (e.g., between 7 VDC and 48 VDC) to one or more predefined operational voltages (e.g., standard 5 VDC or 12 VDC). Further, the power conditioner2570may configured dynamically convert a range of supply voltages (e.g., between 9 VDC and 36 VDC) to one or more onboard operational voltages of the inter-networker2500. Similarly, and as shown inFIG.22, the power conditioner2570may include a transformer and associated circuitry to separate power from communications in a combined communication and power supply interface (e.g., via a PoE connection).

According to one embodiment, the inter-networker2500may include a power output port2574configured to supply sole, selectable, or supplemental power. For example, as shown inFIG.20, the power output port may2574be configured to provide sole DC power to the WWAN interface2400. Also for example, as shown inFIGS.21and22, the WWAN communication port2524may be configured as combined communication and power supply interface. In this configuration, the power output port2574may be combined with or functionally replaced by WWAN communication port2524. Alternately, the power output port2574may be added to provide supplemental (or primary) DC power to the WWAN interface2400.

According to one embodiment, the inter-networker2500may include a user interface2560. The user interface may be embodied as a variable indicator light configured to indicate a device and/or connection status to a user. For example, the user interface2560may be a multi-color LED where blue indicates “initialization”; flashing red indicates “data connection error” (e.g., to check that a properly provisioned SIM has been inserted); solid red indicates “no SIM installed”; flashing green indicates “connecting”; and solid green indicates “attached to the network”.

According to one embodiment, the housing of the inter-networker2500may include heat exchanging/radiating features (e.g., fins, pins, heatsink, etc.) configured to transfer heat from the inter-networker2500to a coolant fluid (e.g., cooling air) flowing within or through the enclosure2100. Beneficially, these features may improve thermal conductivity between the inter-networker2500and the environment control subsystem2130(FIG.12), thus improving performance of the inter-networker2500.

Beneficially, while here the inter-networker2500is illustrated as communicably coupled with the WLAN interface2220, the inter-networker2500may also operate in tandem with any standard routers, gateways, and switches (particularly when the LAN communication port2522includes an Ethernet connection), further providing for a high-speed connection to other associated LAN devices.

FIG.23schematically illustrates an extended range wireless inter-networking device adapted as a portable wireless access point, showing the WLAN interface remote form the enclosure, according to an alternate embodiment of the disclosure. As above, a portable wireless access point2002may include a WLAN interface2203communicably coupled together with the WWAN interface2400via the inter-networker2500. Here, however, the WLAN interface2203is independent of or otherwise not mounted to the enclosure2102.

As shown, the WLAN interface2203may be plugged into and powered by the power port output2112of enclosure2102(e.g., DC power jack). Further, the WLAN interface2203may be plugged into the communication port2116of the of enclosure2102(e.g., Ethernet jack) and communicably coupled to the inter-networker2500, providing the requisite data connection for operation. Beneficially, portable wireless access point2002may provide a portable data connection that can be used with any standard routers, gateways, and switches, as discussed above. According to one embodiment, portable wireless access point2002may include a second WLAN interface (not shown) mounted to the enclosure2102and connected as discussed above.

Alternately, the WLAN interface2203may be powered directly by external power99, and may further be communicably coupled to and power the inter-networker2500, and/or other components onboard the enclosure2103via a combined communication and power supply interface (e.g., via a PoE connection a USB type connection). This may be particularly advantageous in embodiments where the WLAN interface2202is a standalone WiFi modem/router with PoE capacity and has access to wall power.

FIG.24is a flow chart of an exemplary method2900for inter-networked communications, according to one embodiment of the disclosure. The method2900may include the following steps or variants there of: Providing2910a portable wireless access point (such as portable wireless access point2000above); Powering up2920the portable wireless access point via a user interface (e.g., pressing an “on/off” button); Establishing2930a WWAN link between the portable wireless access point and at least one WWAN; Providing2940a data connection to a WLAN MODEM of the portable wireless access point; Establishing2950a WLAN link between the portable wireless access point and at least one wireless communication device; Providing2960ongoing inter-networked communications between the at least one wireless communication device and the WWAN via the WWAN link and the WLAN link of the portable wireless access point.

The method2900may further include the step of accessing2922the user interface, as a prerequisite to its use in step2920. For example, this step may require opening the case or enclosure of the portable wireless access point, or merely opening an access port to the user interface.

The method2900may further include selecting2932between a first WWAN band and a second WWAN band. For example, this may include selecting between a standard or individual communication band and a public communications band (e.g., Band 14). Also, the method2900may further include switching2934between the first WWAN band and the second WWAN band. For example, this may include switching between the standard or individual communication band and the public communications band based on WWAN signal strength, radio selected, priority of communications, etc., just to name a few. According to one embodiment, these steps may be at least partially integrated into step2930. According to one embodiment, at least one of these steps may be performed prior to step2940.

In addition, the method2900may further include selecting2936between a first WWAN radio and a second WWAN radio. For example, this may include selecting between a high power port (e.g., high power port2440) and a standard power port (e.g., standard power port2430) of the WWAN radio. Also, the method2900may further include switching2938between the first WWAN radio and the second WWAN radio. For example, this may include switching between the high power port and the standard power port based on WWAN signal strength, band selected, priority of communications, etc., just to name a few. According to one embodiment, at least one of these steps may be performed prior to step2940.

The method2900may further include communicating a data connection status to a user2942once a data connection is available (and/or other related states as discussed above). The method2900may further include powering down2970the portable wireless access point via a user interface (e.g., pressing the “on/off” button a second time). While the steps of method2900have been discussed in a logical order of operation, it should be understood that that this is not limiting and variations to the presented order are both possible and anticipated. Similarly, it should be understood that one or more steps may be repeated in the process of following the method2900.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present disclosure generally pertains to a system and method for wireless inter-networking between a wireless wide area network (WWAN) and a local area network (WLAN) and/or personal area network (PAN) employing one or more extended range wireless inter-networking devices, and is applicable to the use, operation, maintenance, repair, and improvement of wireless communication devices and associated infrastructure. The inter-networking system embodiments described herein may be suited for wireless communications for any number of industrial applications, such as, but not limited to, various aspects of the military, police and first response, and the wireless communication industry in general, to name a few examples. Furthermore, the described embodiments are not limited to use in conjunction with a particular type of WLAN or WWAN technology. There are numerous inter-networking configurations and combinations that are applicable here.

For example, it should be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that, in view of the above discussion, a method1100for inter-networking a mobile device and a remote base station. Referring toFIG.11, showing a flow chart of an exemplary method for inter-networking a mobile device and a remote base station, the method1100may include the following steps or variants there of: providing1110, a wireless local area network (WLAN); providing1120a first wireless wide area network (WWAN); providing1130a high power user equipment (e.g., HPUE200or HPUE201) configured to wirelessly communicate with the WLAN and the first WWAN, and further configured to communicably couple the mobile device with the first WWAN via the WLAN; communicating1140with the mobile device over the WLAN via the WWAN radio; and communicating1150with the remote base station in a boosted mode over the WWAN via the high power port of the WWAN radio, the boosted mode including transmissions, for example, greater than 0.5 watts. Further, the method1100may include providing1160a second WWAN including an in-range base station; and communicating1170with the in-range base station in a standard mode over the second WWAN via the high power port of the WWAN radio, the standard mode limiting transmissions to less than 0.5 watts, for example.

While all features and benefits might not be achieved in every embodiment of the disclosure, some benefits may include doubling the range of Public Safety Band 14 wireless broadband equipment and allowing any Wi-Fi-enabled device to connect to the wireless network in even the most remote and difficult environments. Further, a benefit that may not be readily apparent, the disclosed high power user equipment (e.g., HPUE200or HPUE201) may serve as a “base station” for many end user devices310,320,330,340over the WLAN300where a mobile chipset (e.g., WWAN transceiver/MODEM242,1042,1043) the be effectively utilized as a base station.

Whether it's in the deepest levels of structures or in the most remote outdoor areas, applying the teachings herein, a user may be able to stay connected with all the advanced broadband services currently in use. Further, smartphone, tablet, and IoT devices may continue work in even the most remote and difficult areas, and may achieve mission-critical levels of communications readiness and reliability. In addition, wireless hotspots, routers, smartphones and other similar devices might now stay connected at nearly twice the distance from the base station as well as deep inside underground and concrete structures. Furthermore, the disclosed innovations discovered by the inventors may offer these benefits without significantly increasing the size, power consumption, or thermal dissipation of the user equipment.

While wireless hotspots connect over the wireless wide area network such as a cellular or WiMAX network, and have a range and speed limitation caused by having a lower power transmitter (found in most commercial handsets), here, with the addition of the high power transmitter on the wide area network side, the range for any given data rate can be extended, and the network capacity can be expanded by having an adequate signal to noise ratio offered by the higher TX power. Thus, the hotspot or HPUE may provide inter-networking between a wireless wide area network (WWAN) and the local or personal area network in a modest form factor that may be generally mobile and portable.

Such an inter-networking device that possesses the high power and more reliable front end that maximizes the ability to transmit data to the network station while minimizing the interference may ensure reliable reception, and increase the devices' range, connection reliability, data rates, and network resiliency. These characteristics are essential for critical communications capabilities.

Similarly, existing wireless interconnect devices, such as a variety of hotspot products, provide inter-networking between wireless wide area networks (WWAN), such as cellular-based networks, and local or personal wireless networks (WLAN/WPAN). These existing interconnect devices have range and data rate limitations caused the limited power that they transmit to the WWAN. Higher power transmission from the disclosed HPUE or interconnect devices may extend the range and data rates possible. However, for personal/pedestrian or in-vehicle interconnect devices, the need to operate for long periods of time from a reasonable sized battery constrains the amount of transmission power they can transmit.

As a result, the long-range capabilities of the disclosed innovations may make it possible to include a wide range of additional capabilities and use these with reliable connections at long range, for example as an integrated services platform. Some of these additional capabilities may include: Seamless local communications during loss of WWAN backhaul; Network services such as DHCP, DNS, caching; IMS server for voice and video applications; Voice services; Internal support of voice services to WWAN; Attachment over LAN or PAN or direct connect; Group channel change capability for voice, video, or other service groupings; Store-and-forward server for data, voice, and video; Geographic Information System (GIS) server; Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) server; Audio commands; Audio record and playback and store-and-forward; Security server; Interface to biometrics sensors; Core network services; Includes device management method (e.g., OMA, Motorola device management, SNMP, TR-069); Includes mass storage for database or store-and-forward applications; Includes an application operating system (e.g., Android, Windows, etc.); Multiple-SIM; just to name a few.

Some additional applications and uses may include Enhanced inter-networking devices including: WLAN 802.11, PAN Bluetooth, others, Wired, Data, voice, and video support, Local sensors and control, Works with a plurality of connected devices, Includes GPIO/serial interface for control and monitor functions, Real-time clock with long term battery, With MIMO and diversity, Internal antenna and external antenna connection, Multiple band operation on WWAN and WLAN, Connects to a plurality of WWAN, User interface to set configuration parameters, Adaptive radiation levels and shape depending on SAR environment. Additionally, embedded location capability may include GPS, accelerometer, beacons, triangulation, 802.11, other location technologies, and combinations of any or all of the above.

Further, additional features may include device security and pairing in order to: Integrate methods of physical verification of identity, RFID, NFC, Fingerprint, Key fob, Entry verification of identity such as UI or voice-based, Identity association with user, Remote monitoring and control of device configuration and operation through wired or wireless connection, Link level security (e.g., SSL, VPN), Physical anti-tamper and tamper detection methods including protection against SIM swapping.

In addition, different form factors are contemplated, such as: Fixed vehicle, wall, or tabletop mounting; Portable wearable, belt, holster mount; Hybrid composed of portable device removable from fixed mounting solution; Vehicle mount with antenna, power, vehicle bus, controls, sensors tied in and removable unit converts to internal antenna control without additional direct wired vehicle connectivity; and Vehicle voice input over wired or wireless connection

Some embodiments may include Internal alerts for: Remote alert control for user notification; Local control based upon one or more sensor triggers; Integral sensors to detect excessive heat or other environmental effect; External sensors to include body-worn, critical personal support equipment, and operator identity paired with a particular user device; and Ability for remote triggering of alert levels; to name a few.

Further aspects of the disclosure may include a device for wireless inter-networking, the device comprising: a means for increasing the RF transmission power of a full-duplex wireless device that transmits and receives on a wireless wide area network (WWAN) with a base station using consumer-level integrated circuits by 1) connecting a RF power amplifier to the transmit signal from the VAN modem transceiver to boost the total transmitted power, 2) providing a high power, bandwidth-limiting RF combining duplexer function that combines the transmit output signal of the high efficiency RF power amplifier with the received RF signal and connecting the combined RF output of this duplexer to a transmit/receive antenna for transmission to a base station, 3) providing an isolation filtering function to limit feedback of the high power transmit signal to a diversity receiver antenna, if applicable.

According to one embodiment, the RF amplifier has a high efficiency power amplifier. According to one embodiment, the high efficiency RF power amplifier has fixed gain. According to one embodiment, the fixed gain high efficiency RF power amplifier has gain set high enough so that the amplifier stage in the modem transceiver is backed off to reduce its noise levels so that the combined out-of-band noise contribution of the staged amplifiers is reduced in order to meet regulatory requirements. According to one embodiment, the RF power amplifier has variable gain that is varied as part of the overall power control methods of the WWAN operation.

According to one embodiment, multiple frequency channels may be transmitted, simultaneously or one at a time, from the modem/RF function and in which one or more of these channels is transmitted at higher power while other frequency channel transmissions are made without the additional RF power amplification. In this case, the high power transmission signals may be transmitted on an antenna separate from the antenna used for the non-high power transmission signal.

According to one embodiment, the inter-networking device is a wireless cellular handset. According to one embodiment, the inter-networking device is a wireless computing device including tablets, computers, etc. According to one embodiment, the inter-networking device is a WWAN connection dongle. According to one embodiment, the inter-networking device is a wireless router.

According to one embodiment, the inter-networking device may include a transmission power level measurement method that monitors the RF power at the output of RF power amplifier and provides this measurement information to the wireless modem function for calibration and power control purposes. According to one embodiment, the inter-networking device may include means for filtering the high power RF signals to prevent interference with other RF functions on the device including GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth signals. According to one embodiment, the inter-networking device may include a filtering function that reduces interference with other RF signals, including the received WWAN signals, is implemented using frequency rejection band stop filter circuits. According to one embodiment, the inter-networking device may include a filtering function that reduces interference with other RF signals, including the received WWAN signals, is implemented using frequency rejection antenna subsystem.

According to one embodiment, the inter-networking device may support operation on a WWAN network that requires a subscriber identification module (SIM) According to one embodiment, the inter-networking device may support operation on multiple WWAN networks that requires more than one subscriber identification module (SIM) According to one embodiment, the inter-networking device may be a battery operated portable device, wherein the battery is rechargeable, and/or the battery is replaceable

According to one embodiment, the inter-networking device may include means for increasing the RF transmission power from a commercially available modem/transceiver circuit module of a full-duplex portable wireless device that transmits and receives on a wireless wide area network (WWAN) with a base station by 1) connecting a high efficiency RF power amplifier to the transmit signal from the modem/transceiver module to boost the total transmitted power, 2) providing a high power, bandwidth-limiting RF combining duplexer function that combines the transmit output signal of the high efficiency RF power amplifier with the received RF signal and connecting the combined RF output of this duplexer to a transmit/receive antenna for transmission to a base station, 3) providing an isolation filtering function to limit feedback of the high power transmit signal to a diversity receiver antenna, if applicable.

According to one embodiment, the inter-networking device may include a WWAN modem integrated on a module having ports for an external transmit, receive, and power monitor function enabling a higher power external amplifier separate from the conventional amplifiers used in cellular user equipment. Further the inter-networking device may include a duplexed or multiple duplexed ports for standard power transmissions output to the antenna subsystem in addition to the high power ports.

The disclosure has been sufficiently described so that a person of ordinary skill in the art can reproduce and obtain the results mentioned in the present disclosure. However, any skilled person in the field of the art of the present disclosure may be able to make modifications not described in the present application. Notwithstanding, if these modifications require a structure or manufacturing process not described in the present disclosure, the modifications should be understood to be within the scope of the claimed