Embodiment
With reference to Fig. 5, the invention provides a kind of mixed-voltage regulator or power supply 30, it has made up preferably by high-level efficiency but low bandwidth is handled the switch sections 32 of most of power and preferably by poor efficiency but high bandwidth is handled the linear segment 34 of smaller portions power demand.Resultant power supply has required bandwidth and a shade below pure switch power efficiency but still be higher than the efficient of pure linear regulator efficient far away.Because linear segment 34 can be used for compensating the output voltage ripple that is associated with pure switching type power supply usually, therefore, resulting AC-battery power source 30 provides a kind of output voltage quality of improvement.Because excessive output voltage ripple can have a negative impact to the output spectrum of PA 6, therefore, this is an important advantage.
Be noted that in principle the quantity of power of being handled by switch sections 32 (x) is greater than the quantity of power of being handled by linear segment 34 (y).This is an ideal situation normally, and in fact, in many examples, x is more much bigger than y.Yet this relation between the power that switch sections 32 and linear segment 34 are handled can not be considered as the restriction of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.In principle, wish the ratio maximization with x and general power: this ratio is big more, and efficient is just high more.Yet the effective rate of realizing in given application can be one or more following factors and the function of considering item:
(a) Yu Qi application (the RF system detail is as the frequency spectrum of RF envelope, the amplitude of high-frequency AC component etc.); And
(b) realize, wherein can determine to a certain extent by the quantity of power of switch sections 32 processing and the quantity of power of handling by linear segment 34.For example, in EDGE,, can handle nearly all power by switch sections 32 by using the 6-7MHz switching frequency, or by for example use the 1MHz operation than the low switch converter, can handle less power.In some cases, for example, at low-down power, but also disabled switch part 32 is also only used linear segment 34, in this case, concerns that x>y is not suitable.
That (c) also will consider may be efficient and realize compromise between the complicacy, and this is because realize that slow dc-dc converter is simpler usually, but subsequently because major part power need be handled by linear segment 34, thereby has reduced efficient.
What (d) also will consider may be will optimize whole efficiency compromise.For example, the switch sections 32 with very high switching frequency and high bandwidth can be handled the most of power (x is more much bigger than y) in the given application, but the processing in the switch sections 32 may be owing to the high switching frequency inefficiency that becomes.Therefore, trial is by using in switch sections 32 than low switching frequency to realize better efficient and to handle than trading off between the less energy and optimize whole efficiency that this may be more favourable in switch sections 32.
Therefore, usually the power section x of switch sections 32 processing is more preferably greater than the power section y of linear segment 34 processing, and also be preferably by given application and constrained optimization x that may be also applies by special manipulation mode (for example at above-mentioned low-power mode, wherein all power can be handled by linear segment 34) and the ratio of y.Also can consider combination,, and also can be the ratio that application constraint is optimized x and y so that x is more preferably greater than y.
In fact, the part topology (being called " switch sections " in Fig. 5) by using dc-dc converter is also in parallel with voltage or current source (being called " linear segment " in Fig. 5) with it, can realize the present invention.The output capacitor (C) of the step-down of Fig. 4 A (decline type) converter 18 is removed.In step-down controller 18, capacitor serves as voltage source, to keep output voltage constant.When the voltage of output terminal need increase, must provide big electric current through inductor (L), satisfying the increase needs of load, and capacitor (C) is charged to new more high-voltage level.This operation makes switching regulaor 16 slack-off, and has limited bandwidth.Yet the voltage level that, increases (or reduction) if capacitor (C) replaces with voltage source can provide very apace through the shunt voltage source of linear part 34, and slower switch sections readjusts its working point.
Referring again to Fig. 2, switch sections 32 provides average level V
M_av, and linear segment 34 provides the AC that is superimposed upon on the average level component.
Based on the voltage source in the alternative use current source instead of linear part 34 of same concept.
The voltage source of linear segment 34 can use power operational amplifier (POA) to realize, and the current source of linear segment 34 can use Power arithmetic trsanscondutance amplifier (OTA) to realize.The operational amplifier of linear segment 34 can be by cell voltage (V as shown in Figure 5
Bat) provide.Alternative current more preferred embodiment (from the angle of efficient), the operational amplifier of linear segment 34 provides the voltage V of Fig. 2
M_pk, that is, and corresponding to the voltage of reference signal amplitude, wherein V
M_pkAll the time be lower than V
BatIn fact, preferably the operational amplifier for linear segment 34 provides voltage V
M_pkAdd and obtain the required certain tolerance limit of linear grade proper operation (for example, 0.2V).
Fig. 6 A-6F shows the various embodiment of mixed-voltage regulator 30 shown in Figure 5, wherein Fig. 6 A, 6C and 6D show the use of variable voltage source 34A (for example above-mentioned power operational amplifier), and wherein Fig. 6 B, 6E and 6F show the use of variable current source 34B (for example above-mentioned Power arithmetic trsanscondutance amplifier).Note, used two variable voltage source 34A and 34A ' in Fig. 6 C, and in Fig. 6 D, two variable voltage source 34A and 34A ' are through the out-put supply rail of C1 capacitive couplings to switch sections 32.It is also noted that, in Fig. 6 E, used two variable current source 34B and 34B ', and in Fig. 6 F, two variable current source 34B and 34B ' are through the out-put supply rail of C1 capacitive couplings to switch sections 32.
Based on above explanation, can understand, use of the present invention allows for the TX structure and realizes effective PA power supply 30, and wherein the PA supply voltage need carry out amplitude modulation.At present, because the commercial switching regulaor that required bandwidth is provided that does not exist the inventor to know, therefore, this realizes by the low linear regulator of service efficiency (referring to Fig. 3 A and Fig. 3 B) only.
To further describe above-mentioned and other embodiment of the present invention now in detail.
Circuit shown in Figure 7 is relevant with the circuit shown in Fig. 6 A, and wherein Fig. 7 A shows the general circuit notion, and wherein Fig. 7 B shows switch sections 32 in greater detail.Switch sections 32 obtains from step-down controller, and this converter is by two switching devices and the decline type switch DC-DC converter that the L-C wave filter is formed.(the d=upper switches is at the time of conducting t with dutycycle d to be shown as the switching device of complementary MOS transistor (PMOS/NMOS) among Fig. 7 B
On_PMOSWith switching cycle T
SRatio) alternate conduction.Control signal with dutycycle d can obtain from analog pulse width modulators (PWM) parts 32A, and these parts are by comparing V
Ctrl_swAnd have period T
sSawtooth signal and will control voltage V
Ctr_swBe converted to pwm signal with dutycycle d.The pwm signal that is fed to transistor driving level 32B also can generate by other method, such as in the digital PWM parts.
Conventional step-down controller comprises the L-C output filter generally speaking, and wherein C is enough big, is the characteristic of voltage source thereby make the characteristic of step-down controller.Yet in existing preferred embodiment of the present invention, filter capacitor is removed, and perhaps is retained, but has minimum electric capacity.Like this, parts 32 are referred to herein as " switch sections " relative with " dc-dc converter ".In fact, physical circuit will have certain filter capacitor, for example, guarantee that RFPA6 stablizes required amount.Yet, for the present invention is described, suppose that capacitance (C) is more much smaller than the capacitance that has in the conventional step-down controller, like this, the characteristic of switch sections 32 mainly is the characteristic of current source, rather than the characteristic of voltage source.
More particularly, because the reason of inductor (L) (and nothing/minimum capacitor C), switch sections 32 has the characteristic of current source, rather than actual Voltage-controlled Current Source (VCCS).Control voltage V
Ctrl_swIncrease determined the increase of dutycycle d, this has determined average output voltage V
PaIncrease, and this has determined the PA6 electric current I
PaIncrease, therefore and determined inductor current I
LThe increase of DC component.Yet, the PA6 electric current I
PaAbsolute value not exclusively by control voltage V
Ctrl_swDetermine, and at I
Pa=V
Pa/ R
PaThe time also by R
PaDetermine.Therefore, though the operation that this technology can similar " VCCS ", its is direct Control current, and therefore is called " similar VCCS ".
Linear segment 34 is as Voltage-controlled Current Source (VCVS) 34A work, and its output voltage V
oAmplify A by difference
dBy differential voltage V
dControl.
More particularly, Fig. 7 A shows this embodiment of the present invention by the hypothesis ideal source: wherein switch sections 32 effect is just as current source, and with linear segment 34 parallel connections of effect just as two-way (that is, it can be supplied and ABSORPTION CURRENT) Voltage-controlled Current Source 34A.Linear segment 34 as voltage source is provided with PA 6 voltage V
PaThe current i of switch sections 32
SwAdd the current i of linear segment 34
Lin, formed the PA6 current i
Pa(R
PaThe virtual impedance of expression PA6).Can connect optional direct-current blocking-up decoupling capacitor C
dTo guarantee that 34 of linear segments provide AC component.
Fig. 7 display switch part 32 realizes by decline type step-down controller, eliminates or greatly reduce output filter capacitor C from this converter.The current i of switch sections 32
SwTherefore be actually inductor current i
L, cause the behavior (inductor L can liken current source to) of similar in fact current source.
It should be noted that because linear segment 34 has the characteristic of voltage source, so it can fixedly be applied to the voltage level V on the PA
Pa, and have the member of controlling this voltage level.In addition, linear segment 34 very fast (wide bandwidth) therefore might provide V
PaFast modulation.It is also noted that the VCVS 34A of linear segment 34 is two-way, expression can be supplied and ABSORPTION CURRENT.
Shown in Figure 19 B, VCVS 34A can be embodied as power operational amplifier (POA).POA comprises the operational amplifier (OPAMP) with A (B) the class level that can absorb/supply required electric current.Figure 19 B shows by transistor Q
1And Q
2The category-B power level of forming, but can change the output stage design to improve performance.For example, in fact power level can be embodied as AB class level, to reduce cross distortion.
As described, can introduce optional decoupling capacitor C
dTo guarantee that 34 of linear segments provide AC current component.Yet in some cases, though allow linear segment 34 also to provide the DC component can bring more complicated control, this will be favourable.For example, may be deactivated and incite somebody to action under the situation that only be provided by linear segment 34 at the PA6 electric current at switch sections 32, expectation can provide DC component from the linear segment 34 of low-power level.And for example, at V
Pa_peakApproach very much for example low battery voltages level of 2.9V, when for example being 2.7V, and switch sections 32 be can't provide it the time, and expectation can provide DC component from the linear segment 34 of this low battery voltages level.Under this type of situation, will remove optional C
d
Circuit operation shown in Fig. 7 A is illustrated by analog waveform shown in Fig. 8, and the circuit operation shown in Fig. 7 B is illustrated by the analog waveform shown in Fig. 9.
Uppermost waveform shows resulting PA6 voltage V among Fig. 8
PaPA6 voltage V
PaBe provided with by linear grade 34 with voltage source characteristic.In this example, V
PaHave DC component (2V) and add the AC component that is shown as the 15MHz voltage sine wave of representing fast modulation.From the electric current composition of last several second waveform display switch part 32, steady current i
SwFrom the electric current composition of last several the 3rd waveforms demonstration linear segments, AC component i
Lin(15MHz sine wave).As described, linear segment 34 is as bi-directional voltage mode work, that is, but but its both also ABSORPTION CURRENT of supply of current.Nethermost waveform shows resulting PA6 current i
PaHave from the DC component of switch sections 32 with from the AC component of linear segment 34.
Notice that in Fig. 8, it is zero sine wave (do not have the composition from linear segment 34, be denoted as " A ") that one group of waveform is used for amplitude, and another group is used for the sine wave (to show the composition from linear grade, being denoted as " B ") of non-zero magnitude.Used identical agreement in the oscillogram of Fig. 9, Figure 11, Figure 12, Figure 14, Figure 15, Figure 17 and Figure 18.
Fig. 9 display simulation waveform is to illustrate the circuit operation shown in Fig. 7 B.For this non-limiting example, suppose that switching stage 32 has the switching frequency of 5MHz and 0.5 dutycycle.Uppermost waveform is presented at the PWM 32A voltage that applies on the inductor L of node pwm.Show resulting PA6 voltage V from last several second waveforms
PaPA6 voltage V
PaBe provided with by linear grade 34 with voltage source characteristic.In this example, V
PaHave DC component (2V) and add the 15MHz AC component (voltage sine wave) of representing fast modulation.From the electric current composition of last several the 3rd waveform display switch parts 32, i.e. inductor current i
L=i
SwIn the case, electric current is not ideally a steady current as shown in Figure 8, but has the specific triangles shape that runs in dc-dc converter.Switch sections 32 provides DC component and triangle AC component (inductor current ripple).From the electric current composition of last several the 4th waveforms demonstration linear segments 34, AC component i
Lin(inductor current ripples compensation on the 15MHz sine wave).Notice that linear segment 34 not only provides the 15MHz sinusoidal component, and AC is provided component, with compensating inductance device current ripples (from being denoted as AC
RipFollowing waveform can be clear that).This is the voltage source characteristic owing to linear segment 34, and it can be supplied and ABSORPTION CURRENT as bi-directional voltage mode.Nethermost waveform shows resulting PA6 current i
PaHave from the DC component of switch sections 32 with from the AC component of linear segment 34, wherein the AC triangle component of inductor current (the 3rd curve) is by linear grade 34 compensation.
Figure 10 has shown an embodiment, and in this embodiment, Voltage-controlled Current Source (VCCS) 34B is used to constitute linear segment 34.Usually, apply the consideration item identical with Fig. 7 embodiment, unique sizable difference is a fixedly PA6 voltage level of VCCS itself.On the contrary, PA6 voltage is by being injected into R
PaTotal current determine.Linear segment 34 can be embodied as the operation transconductance amplifier (OTA) shown in Figure 20 B.Simplify in the view Q in the differential pair at this
1Collected current (Ic
1) mirror image is I
5, and Q
2Collected current (Ic
2) mirror image is I
3, and mirror image is I subsequently
4Output current is I
o=I
5-I
4, and with collected current IC
1-IC
2Between difference proportional, and it and differential voltage V
dProportional.As described, Figure 20 B has shown the reduced representation of OTA.In fact, the purpose that circuit is realized will be to optimize the precision of current mirror, and obtain linear characteristic I
o=gV
d
Circuit operation shown in Figure 10 A is illustrated by analog waveform shown in Figure 11, and the circuit operation shown in Figure 10 B is illustrated by the analog waveform shown in Figure 12.
In Figure 11, the PA6 voltage V of uppermost waveform display result
PaSuppose the angle from power supply, the PA6 effect is just as resistive load.Therefore, V
Pa=R
Pa(i
Sw+ i
Lin), that is, and the electric current sum setting that PA6 voltage is provided by switch sections 32 and linear segment 34.In this example, R
PaBe assumed to be and equal 2 ohm.Switch sections 32 provides DC component i
Sw(for example, 1 ampere), and linear segment 34 provides AC component i
Lin, the 15MHz current sinusoidal ripple of expression fast modulation.From the electric current composition of last several second waveform display switch part 32, that is, and 1 ampere steady current i
SwFrom the electric current composition of last several the 3rd waveforms demonstration linear segments 34, that is, and AC component i
Lin(15MHz current sinusoidal ripple).The PA6 current i of nethermost waveform display result
PaHave from the DC component of switch sections 32 with from the AC component of linear segment 34.
In Figure 12, suppose that switching stage 32 has switching frequency=5MHz and dutycycle=0.5.Uppermost waveform is presented at the PWM 32A voltage that applies on the inductor L of node pwm.PA6 voltage V from last several second waveform display result
PaAforesaid the same, suppose the PA6 effect just as resistive load, and so V
Pa=R
Pa(i
Sw+ i
Lin), that is, and the electric current sum setting that PA6 voltage is provided by switch sections 32 and linear segment 34.As mentioned above, R
PaBe assumed to be and equal 2 ohm.Switch sections provides the i of the DC component with triangle AC component
Sw(1 ampere).Linear segment provides AC component i
Lin, as the 15MHz current sinusoidal ripple of expression fast modulation.From the electric current composition of last several the 3rd waveform display switch parts 32, that is, and inductor current i
L=i
SwIn the case, electric current is not ideally a steady current as shown in figure 11, but has the triangle that runs in dc-dc converter.Switch sections 32 provides DC component and triangle AC component (inductor current ripple).From the electric current composition of last several the 4th waveforms demonstration linear segments 34, that is, and AC component i
Lin(15MHz sinusoidal component).Notice that in the case, 34 of linear segments provide 15MHz sinusoidal component, are different from the respective waveforms of Fig. 9, also can see the AC component of compensating inductance device current ripples in the figure.The PA6 current i of nethermost waveform display result
PaThe DC component and the AC triangle component that have from switch sections 32 (can be from being denoted as AC
RipFollowing waveform see) with from the AC component of linear segment 34.Notice that in this embodiment, because the current source characteristic of linear grade 34, AC triangle component be can't help linear grade 34 compensation, but it can be compensated by suitably controlling VCCS.
Figure 13 and circuit shown in Figure 16 show that respectively the linear segment 34 that is made of two VCCS 34A and 34A ' or two VCCS 34B and 34B ' is from V
BatSupply of current, and with current absorption to ground.In the oscillogram of Figure 14 and Figure 15 and Figure 17 and Figure 18, shown operation respectively.
The waveform that circuit among Figure 13 and Figure 16 is represented and it is corresponding shows source/Su Hangwei of VCVS34A and VCCS 34B respectively, and the behavior of difference simulated power operational amplifier and power trsanscondutance amplifier.Notice that two VCVS 34A among Figure 13 do not activate simultaneously, and be preferably in and be placed in high impedance status when not activating.
More particularly, Figure 13 A and 13B have shown this embodiment with ideal source, and the top explanation of being done for Fig. 7 circuit also is applicable to herein.Difference between the circuit is that voltage source V CVS 34A and 34A ' are unidirectional (supply of current, another ABSORPTION CURRENT) among the embodiment of Figure 13, and voltage source 34A is two-way (supply and absorption) among Fig. 7.Can comprise decoupling capacitor C
dTo guarantee that 34 of linear segments provide AC component.
For the analog waveform figure of Figure 14 and Figure 15, as above the similar explanation that provides for Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 also is suitable for, except the component i of linear segment 34
LinBe divided into i
Aux1(supply) and i
Aux2(absorption).It should be noted that equally two voltage source 34A and 34A ' (Yuan Hesu) preferably are placed in high impedance status when its electric current separately is zero (that is, they do not activate).
Figure 16 A and 16B have shown this embodiment of the present invention with ideal source, and the top explanation of being done for Figure 10 circuit also is applicable to herein.Difference between the circuit is that current source VCCS 34B and 34B ' are unidirectional (supply of current, another ABSORPTION CURRENT) among the embodiment of Figure 16, and current source 34B is two-way (supply and absorption) in Figure 10.Can comprise decoupling capacitor C
dTo guarantee that 34 of linear segments provide AC component.
For the analog waveform figure of Figure 17 and Figure 18, as above for the similar explanation that Figure 11 and Figure 12 did also is suitable for, except the component i of linear segment 34
LinBe divided into i
Aux1(supply) and i
Aux2(absorption).
Notice that Fig. 7 and Figure 10 are the expression of power stage (switch sections 32 and linear segment 34) interconnection, do not consider control.Switch sections 32 is expressed as by control voltage V
CtrlThe parts of control.Linear segment 34 is expressed as by differential voltage V
dThe parts of control.Figure 21, Figure 22 and Figure 23 show three non-limiting examples of the control technology of closed control loop.
In Figure 21, switch sections 32 is by the voltage mode control operation.Controller is by control assembly 36A and have frequencfy-dependent behavior G
C1(s) parts 36B forms, control assembly 36A generated error signal V
E1, parts 36B is with error signal V
E1As its input and will be used for the control voltage V of switch sections 32
Ctrl_swAs its output.Error voltage V
E1Be as modulation signal V
mReference voltage V
Ref_swWith as output voltage V
PaFeedback signal V
Feedback_swBetween poor.In the case, controller ( assembly 36A, 36B) can be embodied as physically have the R-C corrective network operational amplifier with acquired character G
C1(s).
Linear segment 34 uses modulation signal V
mAs reference V
Ref_linFeedback voltage V
Feedback_linIt is output voltage V
PaFeedback voltage V
Feeaback_linAlso can be shown in decoupling capacitor C as the figure with dashed lines
dIf (existence) obtains before.Controller class in the case is similar to switch sections 32, by generated error signal V
E2Parts 38A and have a frequencfy-dependent behavior G
C2(s) parts 38B forms.Owing to linear segment 34A in fact preferably realizes with power operational amplifier, as among Figure 19 B, therefore, and just as the skilled person will recognize, by adding the R-C corrective network with acquired character G
C2(s), can be at closed control loop around it.Notice that comprise that VCVS34A just shows the voltage source characteristic of linear grade 34, it is different with the VCVS shown in Fig. 7.The parts that are designated as " linear segment of tool feedback " are actually the expression of the power operational amplifier with R-C corrective network.
Notice that (for example, Figure 10) and during the OTA shown in Figure 20 B, aforesaid identical points for attention are applicable to closed this ring to be configured to VCCS 34B in linear grade 34.
In Figure 22, to compare unique sizable difference with Figure 21 and be, the reference signal of switch sections 32 is the output of taking from linear segment 34 (if having decoupling capacitor then be positioned at before it).When linear grade 34 was used VCCS 34B and OTA, identical points for attention were suitable for.In this embodiment, clearly, linear segment 34 is with modulation signal V
mThe AM signal is as its reference, and switch sections 32 with the output of linear segment 34 as it with reference to (that is, its " subordinate " is in linear segment 34).
In the embodiment of Figure 23, switch sections 32 is with the open loop operation, and this expression has only modulation signal V
mBe used to generate PWM dutycycle d, and do not have error signal V
E1=V
m-V
PaIn the time may having stability problem as Figure 21 and dicyclo control system shown in Figure 22, this example embodiment may be particularly useful.As mentioned above, when linear grade 34 was used VCCS 34B and OTA, identical consideration item was suitable for.
The embodiment of the invention above-mentioned is illustrated as the fast modulation that realizes the PA6 power supply a solution is provided, and wherein fast modulation is mainly provided by linear segment 34, and uses not or have the step-down controller of minimum filter capacitor.Yet, it should be noted, the notion that switching stage and linear grade are connected in parallel can be used, and also useful under situation about using at step-down controller with conventionally form, that is, have sizable output filter capacitor C and therefore have the voltage source characteristic.For example, being used for the RF transmitter of GSM/EDGE situation can be based on the step-down controller with voltage mode control, by the addressing of high-speed switch converter.Under this exemplary scenario, can realize essential bandwidth, yet, dynamic perfromance undesirable (that is, be referenced to the output-transfer function unevenness, and may show peaking on the contrary), and be not best with reference to following the tracks of therefore.In addition, because the output voltage ripple that the converter switch action causes has formed pseudo-RF signal.Therefore, the linear grade 34 that is connected in parallel with step-down controller can be used for by " help " dc-dc converter and improves its tracking performance compensating its unfavorable dynamic perfromance.In fact, linear segment 34 also can be used for improving (widening) bandwidth, but its mainly to act on be the correcting switch part 32 already provided output characteristics that are referenced to.In addition, linear segment 34 also can compensate output voltage switch ripple (at least to be enough to satisfy the mode of the pseudo-needs of RF) with compensating inductance device current ripples by injection current.
For the above reasons, should be understood that embodiment that Fig. 5 generally shows can expand to comprises following circuit structure: wherein switch sections 32 is " common " step-down controllers, that is, the output filter capacitor C is enough big, thereby makes the step-down controller effect just as voltage source.
Based on foregoing, be understood that, the above embodiment of the present invention comprises based on not or have a circuit structure of the step-down switching formula converter of minimum filter capacitor C, promptly, output filter capacitor C enough little (or not existing) wherein, therefore step-down controller acts in fact just as current source, wherein linear segment 34 can be determined the bandwidth of PA6 power supply alone, promptly, even with extremely slow switch sections 32, linear segment 34 owing to do not exist yet/minimum step-down controller filter capacitor former thereby can modulate; Wherein linear segment 34 also provides the triangle AC component of inductor current; And linear segment 34 compensating switch ripples wherein.
Based on foregoing, can understand the above embodiment of the present invention and also comprise preferably circuit structure based on step-down switching formula converter with quite big filter capacitor C, that is, wherein the output filter capacitor C is enough big, makes step-down controller act on just as voltage source in fact.Therefore, embodiments of the invention also comprise the circuit structure based on " common " step-down controller circuit topology with filter capacitor; Wherein bandwidth is mainly determined by dc-dc converter.In the case, linear segment 34 can be used for improving bandwidth, but in a kind of more limited mode, because bandwidth is limited by the filter capacitor C of switching regulaor in fact.The vital role of these embodiment neutral line parts 34 is dynamic perfromances of help and correcting switch part 32 (step-down controller).In this embodiment, but also compensating switch ripple of linear segment 34.
Each side of the present invention is based on following observation: EDGE and WCDMA envelope medium-high frequency component in example have extremely low amplitude, and most of energy is at DC and low frequency component.Low bandwidth switch sections 32 is handled most of power (DC and low frequency component) with high-level efficiency, and more the linear segment 34 of wide bandwidth is only handled sub-fraction power (corresponding to the power of high fdrequency component) with lower efficient.Therefore, realize that required bandwidth also still provides good efficiency to become possibility.Usually, obtainable efficient is lower than the efficient that realizes with pure Switching Power Supply, uses the efficient that realizes based on the power supply of pure linear regulator but still be far longer than.
Principle of the present invention can not considered the actual realization of switch sections 32 and/or linear segment 34 and use, and may be used on the emitter structures that the PA6 supply voltage need carry out amplitude modulation usually.Teachings of the present invention is not limited to GSM/EDGE and WCDMA system, but also can expand to other system (for example, to cdma system).Teachings of the present invention is not limited to use the system of E class PA6, but also may be used on using the system of the saturated PA of other type.
Others of the present invention in greater detail below are at coupling and supply with several PA6 in the multi-mode transmitter and the control that is used for same procedure.
Referring now to Figure 24, shown among the figure among the embodiment that wherein switching regulaor 100 and linear regulator 102 are by additional electrical sensor L
1(that is, except that for example the 32 inductor L of ordinary tap part shown in Fig. 7 B) and (optionally) capacitor C
1, be coupled in parallel to SMPA104 (for example, E class PA).PA 104 supply voltage V
PaBy linear regulator 102 with the high precision plan.Yet, owing to low bandwidth, switch ripple and noise reason, the instantaneous output voltage V of switching regulaor 100
1Can't accurately be fixed as same value.Therefore, introduced additional electrical sensor L
1, to regulate instantaneous voltage difference V
Pa-V
1L
1On average voltage be necessary for zero, thereby V
1Mean value equal V
Pa
If there is decoupling capacitor C
1, then linear regulator 102 can only provide the AC component in certain frequency range, and the lower bandwidth of this best compensating switch regulator 100 is to obtain required total bandwidth.
If C
1Do not exist, then linear regulator 102 also can provide DC and low frequency component.Under certain conditions, for example at PA 104 voltage V
PaShould be as far as possible near cell voltage V
BatThe time, this may advantageous particularly.This type of situation be use low battery voltages (for example, in the time of 2.9V) in the maximum RF output power GSM situation of (PA 104 needs minimum voltage, for example 2.7V).In the case, be inserted in the input voltage of the arbitrary regulator between battery and the PA 104 and the difference between the output voltage extremely low (in this example only 0.2V).This is (to suppose that a pressure drop on the power device adds two inductor L and L with the extremely unobtainable value of switching regulaor 100
1, dutycycle is less than 100%).At this in particular cases, the supply voltage near cell voltage is provided providing more linear regulator 102, and therefore linear regulator 102 provides all power (DC component, and capacitorless C
1).Though under these special circumstances (GSM, peak power output, low battery voltages), because the pressure drop on the linear regulator 102 is little, efficient is unaffected, at lower GSM power level (that is, bigger pressure drop on the linear regulator 102), efficient will reduce.Therefore, in lower power level, use switching regulaor 100 to provide all power (DC component) more favourable.
In Figure 24, the supply voltage of linear regulator 102 is V
Bat, identical with the voltage that is used for switching regulaor 100.Though from the angle that realizes, this may be best, says from standpoint of efficiency, this may not be best.At lower power level, wherein V
M_pkCompare V
BatUnder the much lower situation, the pressure drop on the linear regulator 102 is big, and its efficient is low.Therefore, a kind of more effective technology (with high-level efficiency) at a certain level, for example is higher than envelope V with the supply voltage preconditioning of linear regulator 102
M_pkPeak value 200-300mV (referring to Fig. 2).
Can see that from Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 two building blocks (switch and linearity) of hybrid regulator have its oneself control loop.Overhead control must be configured to make two parts to complement each other.Figure 25 has shown two possible controlling schemes.
In Figure 25 A, two regulators 100,102 are " master control ", and this is with modulation signal V because of each regulator
mAs a reference, and each regulator 100,102 receive its feedback signal (V from its oneself output
Feedback_sw, V
Feedback_lin).
In Figure 25 B, linear regulator 102 is " master control ", that is, it is with modulation signal V
mAs a reference, and with its oneself output as feedback signal.Switching regulaor 100 is " subordinate ", and this represents voltage that it is applied to linear regulator 102 SMPA 104 as the reference signal, and attempts as far as possible accurately following it.
As described below, the embodiments of the invention are specially adapted to the application of multi-mode transmitter.
As first non-limiting example, in GSM, the RF envelope is constant, and the voltage that therefore is provided to PA 104 is constant, and its level is according to the power demand level adjustment.The major function of SMPA 104 power supplys is power control in the case.Only use switching regulaor 100 with enough in principle.Yet switch motion generates output voltage ripple and noise, and this is regarded as false signal in the RF spectrum of SMPA 104 outputs.In this pattern, linear regulator 102 can be used for the output voltage ripple of compensating switch regulator 100 when needed.Like this, also can relax the specification of the output voltage ripple of switching regulaor 100.For example, if be the exemplary voltages ripple specification of switching regulaor 100 hypothesis 5mV, then when providing ripple compensation by linear regulator 102, this specification also can be loosened to 50mV, thereby allows the LC component littler in the switching regulaor 100 and/or the dynamic perfromance faster of switching regulaor 100.In the case, switching regulaor 100 is almost handled all SMPA power that need, and few (having only the required processing of ripple compensation) that linear regulator 102 is handled.
In the EDGE system, or generally include and have moderate high dynamic perfromance that (for example, in arbitrary system of the variable RF envelope of required BW>1MHz), the major function of SMPA 104 power supplys is power control and envelope-tracking.Can see that the pure switching regulaor with 6-7MHz switching frequency can be followed the tracks of EDGE RF envelope with good relatively precision.Yet, when using pure switching regulaor, system is not strong, and may show to such an extent that for example switching regulaor 100 is referenced to peaking in the output-transfer function and SMPA 104 loads variation (resistance of SMPA increase when supply voltage the reduces usually) sensitivity with supply voltage.In addition, as mentioned above, also there is the problem of output voltage ripple.According to this aspect of the invention, linear regulator 102 can be used for non-optimal dynamic characteristic, SMPA 104 load variations and the switch ripple of compensating switch regulator 100 when needed.If the switching frequency of switching regulaor 100 is enough high, can realize good performance for tracking, then most of power is handled by switching regulaor 100.Yet, also might use to have more low switching frequency thereby have the more switching regulaor 100 of low bandwidth, in this case, the power ratio regular meeting of being handled by linear regulator 102 increases, the reduction of being handled by switching regulaor 100 with compensation.
In the WCDMA system, or show usually and have high dynamic perfromance that (for example, in arbitrary system of the variable RF envelope of required BW>15MHz), the major function of SMPA 104 power supplys is power control and envelope-tracking.Yet the bandwidth that is used for the EDGE system owing to required bandwidth ratio is much higher, and it is not enough therefore only using switching regulaor 100 (in the CMOS technology), thereby uses linear regulator 100 to provide required bandwidth to become very important.As in the EDGE situation, but linear regulator 102 also compensating switch ripple and SMPA 104 load variations.
From the another effectiveness of using the embodiment of the invention to obtain is the ability that a plurality of PA are provided as multi-mode operation.A non-limiting example is E class GSM/EDGE PA104A shown in Figure 26 and E class WCDMA PA 104B.In the case, all PA 104A, 104B are connected on the same power lead of linear regulator 102 output terminals.This embodiment is the same with the embodiment of Figure 27, Figure 29 and Figure 30, supposes to exist the parts (for example, switch) of once only enabling a PA 104A or 104B.
Notice that it is E class PA that PA 104A and 104B are not limited to, show that these just for convenience's sake.This is equally applicable to the embodiment shown in Figure 27, Figure 29 and Figure 30.
In Figure 26 A, regulator 100,102 all can be considered " master control ", that is, and all with modulation signal V
mAs its reference, and all has its own respective output voltages so that its feedback information to be provided.In Fig. 2 B, linear regulator 102 is " master controls ", and switching regulaor 100 is " subordinates ", and this represents that its reference signal is the output V of linear regulator
Pa
Figure 27 has shown additional multi-mode configuration, and wherein GSM/EDGE PA 104A is connected the output terminal of switching regulaor 100 (between output terminal and L
1Between), and WCDMAPA 104B is connected the output terminal of linear regulator 102.This configuration as mentioned above, in GSM/EDGE, can realize required performance by pure switching regulaor 100 of great use.By this hypothesis, in GSM/EDGE, can only use switching regulaor 100 and forbid linear regulator 102.This has active influence to efficient, because eliminated by inductor L
1The loss that brings.Because L
1On pressure drop be eliminated, so it also allows to obtain more near cell voltage V
BatMaximum GSM/EDGE PA supply voltage V
1Inductor L
1Can be littler, because it is as long as handle less PA 104B electric current in the WCDMA operator scheme.In this embodiment, 102 of linear regulators are enabled in the WCDMA pattern.
Notice that as shown in figure 26, if all PA 104A and 104B are connected to same power lead, then total decoupling capacitor may be too big.As shown in figure 28, PA 104 (as the E class PA of non-limiting example) can first method of approximation and from the regulator angle with its equivalent DC resistance R
PaSimulation.In fact, and because the PA stability reasons, generally speaking must be with at least one decoupling capacitor C
PaIn parallel with PA 104.If several PA 104 are connected on the same power lead, then might use one or more shared (sharing) decoupling capacitor.In this case, connection shown in Figure 26 is feasible.Yet if each PA 104 must have its oneself decoupling capacitor, for example because capacitor must place in the PA module, it is excessive that total decoupling capacitor may become, and makes for example to realize required wide bandwidth in the WCDMA operator scheme.
A solution of this problem is to use switch to disconnect being connected of inertia PA and power lead, or disconnects its decoupling capacitor at least.Another possible solution is to connect PA 104A, 104B on the independent current source line, for example, and as shown in figure 27.
In Figure 27 A, regulator 104A, 104B all connect as " master control ".In GSM/EDGE, and hypothesis can obtain can forbid linear regulator 102, and only use switching regulaor 100 under the situation of acceptable energy.Yet, might also use linear regulator 102, bypass L
1Improve to realize (certain) ripple compensation and dynamic property.In this case, if linear regulator 102 also is activated, and its feedback information is the V that applies by the switch 1 (SW1) in the GSM/EDGE position
1In the WCDMA pattern, regulator 100,102 all is activated, and the feedback information that is used for linear regulator is V
Pa(SW1 is in the WCDMA position).
In the embodiment shown in Figure 27 B, switching regulaor 100 connects (SW1 and SW2 are all in the WCDMA position) as " subordinate " that be used for the WCDMA situation, and receives its V from the output terminal of linear regulator 102 through SW2
Ref-swSignal.When GSM/EDGE pattern (SW1 and SW2 are all in the GSM/EDGE position), configuration and operation consider that item is as above described for Figure 27 A.
Figure 29 shows additional multi-mode configuration, and wherein PA 104A, 104B are connected to the independent current source line of independent linear regulator 102A, 102B output terminal.This configuration is the expansion of multi-mode configuration shown in Figure 26.Have only a switching regulaor 100, and PA 104A, 104B be connected on the independent power lead, each is auxiliary by the linear regulator 102A, the 102B that are associated respectively, and the inductor L through being associated respectively
1And L
2Separate.This disposes and helps overcome the front with reference to the described excessive decoupling capacitor C of Figure 28
PaProblem.
In Figure 29 A, switching regulaor 100 is connected as " master control " with two linear regulator 102A, 102B, and in Figure 29 B, switching regulaor 100 connects as " subordinate ", and wherein its reference voltage is according to the linear regulator 102A of current active system (GSM/EDGE or WCDMA) selection or the output of 102B as S1.
Figure 30 shows additional multi-mode configuration, and wherein GSM/EDGE PA 104A is connected the output terminal of switching regulaor 100 (between output terminal and L
1Between), and wherein WCDMA PA 104B and CDMA PA 104C are connected on the independent current source line of independent linear regulator 102A, 102B output terminal.This embodiment can be considered the expansion of Figure 27 and multi-mode embodiment shown in Figure 29.Can be directly connected to the output terminal of switching regulaor 100 at GSM/EDGE PA 104A, and have at least two other PA to need quick supply voltage to modulate in the time of also can placing on the independent current source line, this embodiment is particularly useful.
In Figure 30 A, switching regulaor 100 all is connected as " master control " with two linear regulator 102A, 102B, and in Figure 30 B, switching regulaor 100 only is connected with conduct " subordinate " in the CDMA operator scheme at WCDMA, and wherein its reference voltage is according to the linear regulator 102A of current active system (WCDMA or CDMA) selection or the output of 102B as three pole switch S1.In the GSM/EDGE pattern, switching regulaor 100 through S1 from V
mInput receives its V
Ref_swThe input, and thereby role as among Figure 30 A.
Should be understood that Figure 21 has shown that a kind of wherein switch sections 32 and linear segment 34 are the configuration of " master control "; Figure 22 has shown that a kind of wherein linear segment 34 is that " master control " and switch sections 32 are the configuration of " subordinate "; And Figure 23 has shown that a kind of wherein switch sections 32 and linear segment 34 are the configuration with the open loop operation of " master control " and switch sections 32.In another embodiment of the present invention, switch sections 32 can play " master control ", and linear segment 34 plays " subordinate ".
Because switch sections 32 is relatively slow, therefore preferably do not use its output V yet
PaAs the reference signal linear segment is made as " subordinate ".With reference to Figure 21, signal V
Ctrl_swDirectly related with the dutycycle d of the PWM voltage that is applied to pulse-width modulator 32 LC of node place wave filters.At steady state (SS) (constant V
Ref_sw) in, V
CtrlWith output voltage V
PaProportional.Yet, at dynamical state (indefinite V
Ref_sw) in, the situation difference.For example, if pass through V
Ref_swOrder V
PaIncrease fast, then the result is error signal V
E1Increase sharply, cause V
Ctrl_swIncrease sharply this command duty ratio d increase again.Since the dutycycle that increases, V
PaFinal meeting (slowly) is increased to new more high level.Because the LC wave filter, the response of dc-dc converter is increasing V
PaMiddle than increasing V
Ctrl-swWith low-response among the relevant dutycycle d many.In other words, V
Ctrl_swComprise and output voltage V
PaThe relevant information that content will take place.V
Ctrl_swIncrease hinting the increase of dutycycle d, thereby its expression output voltage V
PaMust increase.This information can be used for sending to linear segment 34 signal of supply of current, so that help to increase V
PaRelatively, V
Ctrl_swReduction hinting the reduction of dutycycle d, and therefore its expression output voltage V
PaMust reduce.This can be used for sending to linear segment 34 signal of ABSORPTION CURRENT, so that help to reduce V
PaTherefore, V
Ctrl_swComprise valuable information, these information can be used for linear grade 34 is made as " subordinate ".
With reference to foregoing, of the present inventionly provide another controlling mechanism in this respect, wherein, as among Figure 21, not V
Ref_lin=V
m, but have V
Ref_lin=G
C3* V
Ctrl_swRelation, wherein G
C3(s) expression voltage scaling amount under the simplest situation, and more also have frequencfy-dependent behavior under the complicated situation.Suppose, as non-limiting example, G
C3(s)=1.As mentioned above, at steady state (SS) (constant V
Ref_swIn), V
Ctrl_swWith output voltage V
PaProportional.Suppose that again for this non-limiting example, proportionality constant is an identity element, so that V
Pa=V
Ctrl_sw, and thereby also have a V
Ref_lin=V
Ctrl_sw, so V
Pa=V
Ref_lin=>V
E2The composition of=0=>no linear part 34.If V is provided
Ref_swQuick increase, then as mentioned above, this causes V
Ctrl_swQuick increase, and thereby V
E2Also increase fast, produce the order that linear segment 34 requires the supply extra current.Equally, if V is provided
Ref_swQuick reduction, then this causes V
Ctrl_swReduce fast, thereby cause V
E2Reduce fast, and linear segment 32 thereby quilt order ABSORPTION CURRENT.Therefore, linear segment 34 just is set as " subordinate " basically in switch sections 32 like this.
With respect to the embodiment of switch sections 32 with Figure 23 of open loop operation, similarly points for attention are suitable for, and also are applicable to the embodiment of Figure 25 A and relevant Figure 26, Figure 27, Figure 29 and Figure 30.Specifically with regard to Figure 25 A, above-mentioned control configuration hint is not V
Ref_lin=V
m, but have V
Ref_lin=V
Ctrl_swRelation.Note, though do not show V among Figure 25
Ctrl_sw, but V
Ctrl_swBeing assumed to be is internal signal to switching regulaor 100 parts, and switching regulaor 100 parts have for example structure shown in Figure 21,, also has switch sections 32 except that control 36A and 36B that is.
Should be understood that these different embodiment of the present invention allow for can realize effective PA power supply to the multi-mode emitter structures that the PA supply voltage carries out amplitude modulation.Use some advantages of these embodiment to comprise: to cause the improvement efficient that the air time is longer and heat management improves; And/or realize the ability of required bandwidth; And/or realize the ability (hypothesis is that GSM/EDGE and WCDMA situation should provide independent device at least in advance) of multi-mode transmitter by a device.
The use of the embodiment of the invention provides a plurality of advantages, comprises high power conversion efficiency.Relatively, in battery powered communicator, provide the longer air time.Compare with using pure linear DC-DC converter, heat management problems is also more effectively managed, and also existence is eliminated at least one power supply filter capacitor (for example, the capacitor C among Fig. 4 A) together or reduced its big or small possibility at least.
It is to be noted that the conversion described that carries out is the decline type in switch sections 32 or switching regulaor 100, and have voltage mode control, this is a presently preferred embodiment.Yet, it should be understood that this conversion can be a rising/decline type.Rising/decline type is favourable, but it more is difficult to realize.Rising/decline type allows to reduce such as the cut-off voltage in the transfer tables such as cell phone, and this is because cell voltage can reduce when its charge depletion, and cut-off voltage is the minimum voltage that keeps operating mobile station.When voltage was too low, PA6 can't produce full output power, and rising/decline type has solved this problem.For example, by using rising/decline type switch sections 32, can be with V
BatBe adjusted to and be lower than V
M_pk(Fig. 2), and when having only the decline type, V
BatMust equal V at least
M_pkAdd certain tolerance limit, for example V
M_pk+ 0.2V.Quick A M modulation by as shown in Figure 2 changes being controlled between rising and the dropping characteristic, and like this, this transformation can not cause output voltage V
PaDistortion.In addition, with rising/decline type switch sections or converter, and at V
M_pk>V
BatThe time, must be from greater than V
M_pkAnd therefore greater than V
BatThe DC source be linear segment 34 power supply so that can supply of current.
What also can notice is in voltage mode control, to have only information of voltage (for example, the output voltage of converter) to be used to generate control signal.Yet, also might also use Controlled in Current Mode and Based, wherein except that voltage, also use current information (for example, inductor current).In Controlled in Current Mode and Based, two control loops are arranged, one is used for electric current, and one is used for voltage.Certainly, also can use other more control of complicated type.
Above-mentioned explanation in view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, will be appreciated that, these teachings are not limited to only be used for GSM/EDGE, WCDMA and/or cdma system, but can be used for having in arbitrary type system of variable amplitude envelope, wherein the PA supply voltage should be modulated by high-level efficiency and high bandwidth.
In view of the above-mentioned explanation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, it should be understood that these teachings are not limited to only be used for E class PA, but the general linear PA that may be used on multiple SMPA usually and operate in state of saturation, as saturated category-B PA.
Above-mentioned explanation in view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, it should be understood that these teachings are not limited to only be used for the dc-dc converter topology of arbitrary particular type and (for example, step-down, decline type are arranged not only, and also have risings/decline type), and not only be used for voltage mode and control.
In view of the above-mentioned explanation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, it should be understood that these teachings are not limited to the linear segment that only is used to provide the switch sections of DC and AC is provided.In fact, it is desirable for switch sections also provide as far as possible AC (its attempt following with reference to the time), and linear segment provides the AC part (or the bandwidth that lacks) that lacks.Like this, embodiments of the invention have strengthened total efficiency as much as possible, and are big more from the composition of switch sections or converter because in principle, and efficient is just high more.
In view of the above-mentioned explanation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, compensated the imperfect dynamic perfromance of switching stage though it should be understood that linear grade, imperfect dynamic perfromance also causes by imperfect PA behavior (for example load variations) to a certain extent, i.e. R
PaWith V
PaChange (that is, at V
PaIncrease during reduction) and be in mismatch condition.Therefore, linear grade 34, the 102 imperfect dynamic perfromance of compensating switch converter (for example, bandwidth not enough and/or be referenced to peaking in the output characteristics) at least.In addition, in this regard, linear grade 34,102 and switching stage 32,100 complement each other, to obtain the specific required output-transfer function (specific bandwidth is not only arranged, and the given shape of transport function is arranged) that is referenced to.For example, linear grade 34,102 can have this type of and be referenced to output-transfer function, and the resulting output-transfer function that is referenced to that mixes (switch/linearity) power supply is or near planar second-order Butterworth filter type.Therefore, linear grade 34,102 can be used for always being referenced to the output-transfer function shaping to resulting, so that obtain desirable characteristics.Linear grade 34,102 also helps tracking reference signal, and can be used for obtaining reference signal V
mSpecific required tracking performance.
Linear grade 34,102 is compensating switch ripple at least also, and also can compensate nonideal PA behavior at least, such as R
PaVariation with condition of work.
Should also be understood that the secondary inductor L that in Figure 24, introduces
1In fact have the effect that is similar to the inductor of converter shown in Fig. 6 L, consequently produce current source characteristic.A difference is, in the embodiment of Fig. 6 and those embodiment subsequently, input end at inductor L has applied the PWM rectangular voltage, and in the embodiment of Figure 24 and those embodiment subsequently, level and smooth voltage (output of dc-dc converter 100) is applied to secondary inductor L
1Input end.
In view of the above-mentioned explanation of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, it should be understood that under the GSM/GMSK modulation case AC-battery power source is carried out " power control " function, thus by regulating power level with the power supply regulate voltage levels.Like this, be appreciated that differently with AM control, used is " substep control ".Notice that target can be to improve PA6 efficient, particularly when using linear PA.When using linear PA, will there be another mechanism that regulates power level generally speaking, even at stabilized power source voltage V
BatSituation under, but subsequently when low-power level more efficient can reduce, and the DC level can be lowered to raise the efficiency.Yet when using SMPA, output power (mainly) controlled by supply voltage.Like this, preferably use PA power supply 30 power controlling.
In any case, for rapid mixing power supply 30 according to the preferred embodiment of the invention, and for the GSM situation: a) in the TX structure, the PA power supply is used for power controlling; B) the PA power supply needn't be very fast (though there are some requirements relevant with power ramp/oblique deascension, they are lower than the requirement of EDGE situation); And c) advantageously, by AC-battery power source 30 compensating switch ripples, as in the EDGE situation.
Above-mentioned explanation provides the best approach that the present inventor imagines for enforcement the present invention at present and the complete sum informedness explanation of equipment by demonstration and non-restrictive example.Yet when reading with appended claims in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in view of the above description, those skilled in the relevant art can understand various changes and modification.For example, though power supply of the present invention has been described in the context of polarity or ER transmitter embodiment in the above, the present invention can use other and use, and wherein power supply must satisfy strict dynamic requirements, also shows high-level efficiency simultaneously.In addition, the quantity of unintelligible possible the embodiment that can suppose for restriction mixed-voltage regulator of the different embodiment of Fig. 6-30, or limit the RF power amplifier that the embodiment of the invention can be used for and the quantity of RF communication system types.Usually, this type of and similar modification of all of teachings of the present invention will drop in the scope of the embodiment of the invention.
In addition, characteristics more of the present invention can advantageously be used and need not other characteristic of corresponding use.Similarly, above-mentioned explanation should be considered as principle of the present invention just is described, rather than limit it.