KR200454401Y1 - Timing device over discrete activity intervals for non-real-time data interfaces - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is a timing maintaining device over discrete activity intervals for a non-real time data interface in a radio frequency (RF) IC. The device initiates a first receive mode at the RF IC upon receiving a first command from a baseband (BB) IC to receive an analog RF signal (210), converts the analog RF signal into a first digital data sample stream and 215, and sending 225 the sample to the BB IC. Next, the RF IC stops the first receiving mode when receiving the second command from the BB IC (235) and transmits a dummy data sample to the BB IC (245). The RF IC then resumes (275) the first receiving mode upon receiving a third command from the BB IC (270) and converts the analog RF signal received by the first receiving mode into a second digital data sample stream. The sample is converted (285), and the sample is transmitted to the BB IC (298).

Non-real-time data interface, baseband, radio frequency, digital data sample stream, receive mode

Description

APAPATUS FOR MAINTAINING TIMING ACROSS DISCONTINUOUS ACTIVITY GAPS FOR A NON-REAL TIME DATA INTERFACE}

The present invention relates generally to non-real-time data interfaces, and more particularly, to timing maintenance techniques over discrete activity intervals for non-real-time data interfaces.

Non-real-time data interfaces, such as 3G DigRF interfaces, provide direct communication between baseband (BB) ICs and radio frequency (RF) ICs used in wireless communication devices. The RF IC converts the transmission data (digital baseband signal) supplied by the BB IC into an analog RF signal to be transmitted through an antenna. The RF IC also converts the input RF signal received by the antenna into a digital form suitable for processing by the BB IC. The BB IC generates the transmission data (such as voice), demodulates the received data and processes it. For example, the 3G DigRF interface is responsible for carrying signals between the RF IC and the BB IC.

1 illustrates a prior art, block diagram 100 of an RF IC communicating with a BB IC using a 3G DigRF interface. RF IC 110 includes dual mode transmitter (2G / 3G TX) 112, dual mode receiver (2G / 3G RX) 114, digital-to-analog converter (DAC) 120, analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 122, a buffer 125 including a first RF RX buffer 124 for a first receive mode and a second RF RX buffer 126 for a second receive mode, and a 3G DigRF interface 130. BB IC 150 includes 3G DigRF interface 132, TX symbol I & Q signal 152, configuration and control signal 156, RX symbol I & Q signal 154, RF IC response 158, and a first reception mode. 1 BB RX buffer 155, a second BB RX buffer 157 for a second receive mode, a first modem 163, and a second modem 166. An additional buffer, such as a BB TX buffer or an RF TX buffer in front of the DAC 120 may be included in the TX symbol I & Q signal path, but is omitted here for simplicity.

In the example of FIG. 1, the RF IC 110 may transmit and receive a 3G (third generation such as WCDMA) signal and a 2G (second generation such as GSM) signal.

The 2G / 3G dual mode RX 114 receives 3G signals from an external source such as an antenna (not shown) when configured in 3G mode, and 2G from its external source or other external source when configured in 2G mode. Receive the signal. ADC 122 may transmit these input analog RF signals from 2G / 3G dual mode RX 114 to BB IC 150 at a sampling rate in accordance with the radio access technology (RAT) of the receiver being operated. Convert to a digital data stream. This digital data sample stream is stored in the RF RX buffer 125, where samples can reach the RF sampling rate indicated by the ADC 122, which is indicated by the 3G DigRF interface 130. It may be transmitted from the RF RX buffer 124 or 126 to the BB IC 150 at another rate, 132 bit rate.

The RF IC 110 may send a digital data sample to one or more RF RX buffers based on the data type of the sample. In the example of FIG. 1, the first RF RX buffer 124 collects data sample streams associated with 3G RAT (eg WCDMA), and the second RF RX buffer 126 collects data streams associated with 2G RAT (eg GSM RAT). Is used. If only one receive path exists, only one of these buffers is used to support a receiver that is operating at one time.

This digital data sample stream is transmitted from the RF IC 110 to the BB IC 150 using the 3G DigRF interfaces 130 and 132, so that the 3G DigRF interface 130 receives each packet as the BB IC 150 receives each packet. Is stored in the operating BB RX buffer 155 or 157 at the speed indicated. The BB RX buffer 155 or 157 in operation may be filled up to a certain level before it begins to be read at the RF IC 110 sample rate. After the active BB RF buffers 155, 157 begin to clock out the received digital data samples to their respective modems 163 or 166, their outputs are continuously clocked to allow the ADC 122 to It can be kept synchronized with the sample stream that is gathering.

On the transmitting side, the RD IC 110 receives the digital signal from the BB IC 150 using the same 3G DigRF interfaces 130 and 132. The DAC 120 converts the digital signal received from the BB IC 150 to be transmitted by the 2G / 3G dual mode TX 112 of the RF IC 150. Digital signals to be received and transmitted from a BB IC are generally modulated using analog carrier signals (such as high frequency sinusoids). The 2G / 3G dual mode TX 112 is responsible for transmitting 2G or 3G signals using one or more antennas (not shown).

BB IC 150 generates TX symbol using orthogonal I & Q signal 152 and configuration and control signal 156 and orthogonal I & Q signal 154 from RF IC 110 using 3G DigRF interfaces 130 and 132. ) And an RX symbol using the RF IC response 158. TX symbol I & Q signal 152 includes transmit data processed by BB IC 150 and will be transmitted to RF IC 110. In contrast, the RX symbol I & Q signal 154 includes data received by the BB IC 150 from the RF IC 110.

Both the configuration of the system and the control of the system are coordinated by the BB IC 150. The BB IC 150 sends a configuration and control signal 156 to the RF IC 110 to initiate subsequent desired operation and timing modes as required. The RF IC response 158 is information that the RF IC 110 sends to the BB IC 150 in response to the BB IC 150 request to change the configuration or state of the system.

The 3G DigRF interfaces 130 and 132 support the BB IC 150 and the RF IC 110 to communicate with each other. By 3G DigRF interfaces 130 and 132 combined with RF RX 124 and 126 and BB RX 155 and 157 buffers, asynchronous and dissimilar radio access technologies (such as 2G and 3G) are common between BB and RF ICs. The physical interface can be shared. Interfaces 130 and 132 are transmit paths (TX paths) 160 for transmitting control, data and timing from the BB IC 150 to the RF IC 110 and the BB IC 150 from the RF IC 110. Provide a receive path (RX path) 170 for receiving data. The BB IC 150 maintains the master clock and transmits the timing strobe 180 to the RF IC 110 from the BB IC 150 via the 3G DigRF interface 130, 132 to the RF IC 110. The timing between the BB IC 150 clocks is maintained. Timing strobe 180 from BB IC 150 to RF IC 110 is transmitted on TX path 160. In one example, the timing strobe 180 is a signal inserted into the TX path 160 and transmitted over the 3G DigRF interfaces 130 and 132.

In one example, when the RF IC 110 transmits a data sample of the first RAT to the BB IC 150, the BB IC 150 transmits a timing strobe 180 to the RF IC 110, and the RF IC ( 110 begins sending a sample associated with the first RAT to BB IC 150. ADC 122 begins converting the input analog RF signal from 2G / 3G dual mode RX 114 into a digital data stream. ADC 122 then converts first RF RX buffer 124 into a digital data stream that can be transmitted to BB IC 150 at a predetermined time interval with respect to timing strobe 180 in accordance with the RAT in operation. Fill it. When a full 3G DigRF packet of digital data samples is collected in the first RF RX buffer 124, the 3G DigRF interface 130 on the RF IC 110 sends the packet to the 3G DigRF interface on the BB IC 150. 132, and the interface 132 inserts the received digital data sample into the first BB RX buffer 155. After the first BB RX buffer 155 is filled up to a programmable threshold, the digital data sample is read from the first BB RX buffer 155 on a first-in, first-out basis at the original RF sample rate, thereby ending the first RAT receiving operation. Is supplied to the first modem 163 until The programmable threshold is set such that the first BB RX buffer 155 does not run out of samples for delivery to the modem 163 due to the bursty asynchronous shared traffic aspect of the 3G DigRF interface. In one example, the first modem 163 is a 3G modem and the second modem 166 is a 2G modem.

The RF IC 110 does not include a sense of time and must rely solely on the BB IC 150 to provide a timing reference in the form of a timing strobe 180. Despite the fact that the 3G DigRF interface 130, 132 is asynchronous to the RF sample rate, the BB IC 150 sets its timer when the RF IC 110 receives the timing strobe from the BB IC 150. Since the ADC 122 starts by setting it to a known offset between when it receives the first sample, the BB IC 150 begins with the first or second BB RX sample from the time it first received the sample from the ADC 122. Delay variation until read from buffers 155 and 157 may be allowed. The BB IC 150 keeps its timer at this count until the first sample is read from the first or second BB RX buffers 155, 157, and thus any over the 3G DigRF interface 130, 132. The delay variation of is irrelevant. This is true as long as the digital data sample stream delivered from the RF IC 110 to the BB IC 150 remains continuous at a speed fast enough that the buffer does not underflow or overflow.

Problems arise when data received on a particular RAT in the RF IC 110 is discontinuous, such as when the RF IC 110 switches the reception mode from one RAT to another RAT during a compressed mode interval. The timer in the BB IC 150, which maintains timing with the network for the first RAT even during this interval, is then decompressed to obtain the timing resulting from the time varying delay caused by the 3G FAIGrf interfaces 130 and 132. Without requesting some, it can continue to operate (as required when the RX path 170 is initialized) and cannot be interrupted. In addition, resending the timing strobe 180 will continue to increase timing uncertainty further. The process of retiming after discontinuous activity intervals reduces the chance of being used to monitor other RATs. The net effect requires more compressed mode intervals to complete the same task, resulting in poor call quality, increased time to detect suitable handoff candidates, and probability of dropped calls. Is to increase.

Thus, there is a need to maintain timing over discrete activity intervals for non-real-time data interfaces.

A radio frequency (RF) IC for maintaining timing across discontinuous activity gaps for a non-real-time data interface, the RF in response to receiving a first command from a base band IC; A unit for initiating a first receive mode in an RF IC; A unit for converting the analog RF signals received by the first reception mode into a first digital data sample stream at a predetermined sample rate; A unit for collecting the first digital data sample stream in a first buffer; A unit for transmitting samples from the first buffer to the BB IC over the non-real-time data interface at a first rate different from the predetermined sample rate when a transport mechanism is available; A unit for stopping the first receiving mode in response to receiving a second command from the BB IC; A unit for placing dummy data samples into the first buffer at the predetermined sample rate after the first digital data sample; A unit for continuously transmitting the samples from the first buffer to the BB IC at the first rate when the transport mechanism is available; A unit for resuming the first reception mode in response to receiving a third command from the BB IC; A unit for converting the analog RF signals received by the first reception mode into a second digital data sample stream at the predetermined sample rate; A unit for stopping placing said dummy data samples in said first buffer; A unit for initiating placing said second digital data sample stream into said first buffer after said dummy data samples; And a unit for continuously transmitting the samples from the first buffer to the BB IC at a second rate different from the predetermined sample rate when the transport mechanism is available.

According to the present invention, timing can be maintained over discrete activity intervals for non-real-time data interfaces.

The timing maintenance device for discontinuous activity intervals for the non-real time data interface maintains the first sample timing even when moving the ADC at a different sample rate for the second RAT. The apparatus places dummy data samples into the data stream of the first RAT at the first ADC sample timing and rate and sends them to the BB IC when the actual data samples associated with the first RAT are not actually available to the RF IC. do. When the receiver returns to the first RAT, the ADC sampling resumes at the original timing, followed by the dummy data's non-dummy digital data sample stream. As a result, the RF IC sample timing does not have to be reset because the RF IC always transmits a sample even when the RF IC is actually at rest for the first RAT, and continues to maintain timing for the BB IC.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a method 200 in which an RF IC (such as the RF IC 410 shown in FIG. 4) maintains timing over discrete activity intervals. The method 200 begins with the RF IC receiving a first command from the BB IC 450. In one example, the first instruction may be a first timing strobe. In another example, the first command may be several commands.

The RF IC enters a first receive mode upon receiving a first command and then begins to receive an analog RF signal (210). In one example the 2G / 3G dual mode RX 414 shown in FIG. 4 may be configured in a first reception mode for 3G reception, and the associated analog RF signal may be a 3G signal (eg, a WCDMA signal). The RF IC then converts (215) the analog RF signal received in the first receive mode to the first digital data sample stream at a predetermined sample rate.

The RF IC collects (220) the first digital data sample stream into a buffer after sampling the analog RF signal. The RF IC places the initial digital sample of the first stream in a buffer at a first predetermined time period for the first instruction from step 205. The RF IC does not have a master clock, so the RF IC performs its function on the timing strobe received from the BB IC.

The buffer may be different for each signal (eg, a first buffer for 3G signals, a second buffer for 2G signals, etc.). In one example, these buffers may use a first in, first out (FIFO) scheme. In the FIFO scheme, the first sample sent to the buffer is the first sample to be sent from the buffer.

As the first digital data sample stream is collected in a buffer, the RF IC takes the sample at a first rate (such as the 3G DigRF interface 430, 432 shown in FIG. 4) as a transport mechanism can be used. ) Transmits from the buffer to the BB IC via the shared non-real time data interface (225). This first rate is different from the predetermined sample rate at which the RF IC sampled the analog RF signal at step 215. In one example, the RF IC may begin transmitting from the buffer only after the buffer has filled to a predetermined threshold. This threshold may be determined by the user, the RF IC manufacturer, or the 3G DigRF interface packet size.

The BB IC begins to receive a sample from the RF IC and, as it arrives, places these samples in the first buffer at a rate different from the predetermined sample rate at which the RF IC sampled the analog RF signal in step 215. The buffer may be different for each signal (eg, a first buffer for 3G signals, a second buffer for 2G signals, etc.). In one example, these buffers may use a first in, first out (FIFO) scheme. In the FIFO scheme, the first sample sent to the buffer is the first sample to be sent from the buffer.

When the number of samples in the buffer reaches a predetermined threshold, the BB IC begins sending the received sample from the buffer to the 3G modem at the predetermined sample rate at which the RF IC sampled the analog RF signal in step 215. This threshold may be set by the IC manufacturer to ensure that the buffer does not underflow or overflow during normal operating conditions. Although the input into this buffer can be bursty, the output is constant and continuous so that the RF and BB ICs are aligned in time.

The RF IC may receive 230 a second command (eg, a second timing strobe) from the BB IC while transmitting from the buffer. The second command instructs the receiver to stop the current receive operation and start the receive operation at another RAT while maintaining timing for future resumption. Upon receiving the second command, the RF IC suspends the first receive mode while maintaining a sample timing reference (235) and begins placing a dummy data sample in the first buffer after the first non-dummy digital data sample stream (240). ). The RF IC continues to transmit 245 the sample from the first buffer to the BB IC at a first rate as a transport mechanism may be used. The dummy data sample contains digital data with a null value. These dummy data samples are also accepted at the sample rate at which the analog RF signal was sampled into the first digital data sample stream in step 215. In one example, the sample from the buffer is sent to the BB IC in the form of a packet. Therefore, the dummy data sample is transmitted to the BB IC as a dummy data packet. In one case, the dummy data packet may contain many dummy data samples. In other cases, the dummy data packet may not contain many dummy data samples, but instead tells the BB IC to replace this sample with a certain number of dummy data samples.

The dummy data sample is not otherwise treated when received at the BB IC and is placed in the first buffer as it is received. Similarly, the buffer is emptied continuously at the specified sampling rate. The modem may ignore the dummy sample, but the continuous sample stream will pass from the input to the first buffer of the RF IC to the output of the first buffer of the BB IC.

In another embodiment, the RF IC may enter a second receive mode (250) upon receiving a second command in step 230 and then begin receiving another analog RF signal. In one example, the second receive mode may be a 2G receive mode, and the associated analog RF signal may be a 2G signal (eg, a GSM signal). The RF IC then converts the received analog RF signal in the second receive mode to a digital data sample stream at another predetermined sample rate (255). The RF IC accepts an initial digital sample of this stream at a predetermined time period for a second command (eg, a second timing strobe). The RF IC collects this digital data sample stream into a first buffer after sampling the analog RF signal (260). The RF IC places an initial digital sample of this stream at a predetermined time period for the second command from step 230. Since the RF IC does not have a master clock, the RF IC performs its function on a second command (eg, a second timing strobe) received from the BB IC.

As digital data sample streams are collected in a second buffer, the RF IC shares the sample stream in the form of a packet interlaced with packets from the first buffer, as transport mechanisms may be used. The transmission starts from the second buffer to the BB IC via the data interface (265).

The interlaced packet is received by the BB IC and its payload is inserted into the appropriate buffer based on the packet header information. The dummy data sample is placed into the first buffer and the digital data sample from the second receive mode is placed into the second buffer upon arrival. Emptying the first buffer continues at the original sampling rate as before, and the second buffer is flushed at the rate required by the second modem.

In another embodiment, the RF IC stops the first receive mode upon receiving a second command (eg, a second timing strobe), but does not enter the second receive mode. The RF IC then enters a second receive mode upon receiving another command following the second command.

The RF IC may place a dummy data sample in a first buffer (240) and receive a third command (eg, a third timing strobe) from the BB IC while transmitting (245) the sample from the first buffer. Upon receiving this third command, the RF IC suspends (273) the second receive mode (if the second receive mode is ON) and resumes the first receive mode (275).

The RF IC begins to convert (285) the analog RF signal received in the first receive mode back to a second digital data sample stream. The RF IC accepts an initial data sample of the second stream at a first predetermined time period for the third command (which may also be the second predetermined time period for the first timing strobe).

When the first sample of the second stream is available after conversion, the input to the first buffer stops placing the dummy data sample in the first buffer and begins placing the second digital data sample stream in the first buffer and (290) Resume the original sample rate and timing. Non-real-time transmission 295 of the sample from the first buffer to the BB IC continues at the second rate as a transport mechanism may be used. The data path is filled with dummy data and normal reception resumes at the original sampling timing.

Thus, the RF IC maintains timing with the BB IC, including mitigating any time variation of the shared non-real-time data interface by transmitting dummy data samples during discrete receive times. The RF IC sample timing does not need to be reset because the BB IC indicates that sending a dummy data sample indicates that the data transmission for the first RAT is continuous and never stopped for any duration.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method 300 in which a BB IC (such as the BB IC 450 shown in FIG. 4) maintains timing over discrete activity intervals. The method 300 begins by the BB IC sending 305 a first command to the RF IC for initial synchronization. In one example, the first instruction may be a first timing strobe. In another example, the first command may be several commands.

The BB IC then receives 310 a first digital data sample stream from the RF IC. The first digital data sample stream is in the form of a data packet and is received at a first rate from the first receive mode of the RF IC via a shared non real-time data interface (such as 3G DigRF 430, 432 shown in FIG. 4). do. The data packet may contain a header that contains information about the RAT associated with this data packet.

The 2G / 3G RX 414 shown in FIG. 4 may be configured in a first reception mode and may be associated with a first RAT (eg, 3G RAT such as WCDMA). The BB IC begins placing 312 the sample into the first buffer at a rate different from the predetermined sample rate at which the RF IC sampled the analog RF signal in step 215 (of FIG. 2) when the sample arrives. The buffer may be different for each signal (eg, a first buffer for 3G signals, a second buffer for 2G signals, or two buffers for one RAT if RX diversity is supported, etc.). In one example, these buffers may use a first in, first out (FIFO) scheme. In the FIFO scheme, the first sample sent to the buffer is the first sample to be sent from the buffer.

When the number of samples in the buffer reaches a predetermined threshold, the BB IC begins to send the received sample from the buffer to the 3G modem at the sample rate at which the RF IC sampled the analog RF signal in step 215 (FIG. 2) (314). ). This buffer threshold can be set by the IC manufacturer to ensure that the buffer does not underflow or overflow during normal operating conditions. Even if the input into this buffer can be congested, the output is constant and continuous, allowing RF sampling and BB IC sample consumption to be maintained at a constant time offset.

The BB IC then sends 315 a second command (eg, a second timing strobe) to stop the first receive mode and begins receiving dummy data samples from the RF IC via the shared non-real time data interface. (320). The dummy data sample may be received as a dummy data packet by the BB IC. In one case, the dummy data packet may contain many dummy data samples. In other cases, the dummy data packet may not contain many dummy data samples, but instead informs the BB IC to replace this sample with some number of dummy data samples.

Dummy data packets are not otherwise treated when received at the BB IC and are placed in the first buffer as received (321). Likewise, by sending this sample from the buffer to the 3G modem (322), the buffer is emptied continuously at the specified sampling rate. The modem may ignore the dummy sample, but the continuous sample stream will pass from the input to the first buffer of the RF IC to the output of the first buffer of the BB IC.

In another embodiment, the BB IC may receive 325 a digital data sample stream from an RF IC interlaced with the dummy data packet. This digital data sample stream is in the form of a data packet and is received at a second rate from the second receive mode of the RF IC via a shared non real-time data interface (such as 3G DigRF 430, 432 shown in FIG. 4). . The second reception mode may be the 2G RX reception mode shown in FIG. 4, and the digital data sample stream may be associated with a second RAT (eg 2G RAT such as GSM).

The interlaced packet is received by the BB IC and the packet payload is inserted into the appropriate buffer based on the packet header information. The dummy data sample is placed into the first buffer and the digital data sample from the second receive mode is placed into the second buffer upon arrival (326). The BB IC sends 327 the received sample from the second buffer to the 2G modem at the rate required by the second modem.

While receiving the dummy data packet, the BB IC sends a third command (eg, a third timing strobe) to the RF IC to stop the second receiving mode (if applicable) and resumes the first receiving mode (330). Packets containing samples from the second receive mode will be aborted once the RF IC's second RF RX buffer is empty. The BB IC then begins to receive 335 the second digital data sample stream from the first receive mode at the first rate via the shared non-real-time data interface from the RF IC. Converting the dummy sample back to a real sample is transparent to the BB IC, which, upon arrival of the packet-bound sample, received the RF IC at step 215 (in FIG. 2) from which the analog RF signal was sampled. It continues to place in the first buffer at a rate different from the predetermined sample rate (337), and maintains the transfer of the sample from the first buffer to the first modem (340). The output of the first buffer of the BB IC will continue without interruption as the dummy sample is filled and the received sample is resumed. In another embodiment, sending one or more commands and / or a third timing strobe interrupts the second receive mode at the RF IC, and the one or more commands and / or fourth timing strobe resumes the first receive mode. do.

Therefore, the BB IC receives dummy data samples during the discontinuous reception time of the RF IC. As a result, the RF IC does not need to regain timing because the BB IC indicates that the data transmission for the first RAT is continuous and never stopped for any duration.

4 is a block diagram 400 of an RF IC including a dummy data generator in communication with a BB IC using the 3G DigRF interface. In order to implement the dummy data arrangement according to FIGS. 2 and 3, a dummy data generator 440, a first switch 421, and a second switch 441 are added to FIG. 1. The other elements of FIG. 4 are identical to the corresponding elements of FIG. 1. RF IC 410, 2G / 3G Dual Mode TX 412, 2G / 3G Dual Mode RX 414, Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) 420, Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) 422, First Buffer 425 including RF RX buffer 424 and second RF TX buffer 426, 3G DigRF interface 430, 432, BB IC 450, TX symbol I & Q signal 452, configuration and control signal 456, RX symbol I & Q signal 454, RF IC response 458, first BB RX buffer 455, second BB RX buffer 457, first modem 463, second modem 466 , TX path 460, RX path 470, and optional timing strobe 480 include RF IC 110, 2G / 3G dual mode TX 112, 2G / 3G dual mode RX 114, Digital-to-analog converter (DAC) 120, analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 122, buffer 125 including first RF RX buffer 124 and second RF TX buffer 126, 3G DigRF interface 130, 132, BB IC 150, TX symbol I & Q signal 152, configuration and control signal 156, RX symbol I & Q signal 154, RF IC response 158, first BB RX buffer 155 ), Second BB RX buffer (1 57, similar to the functions of first modem 163, second modem 166, TX path 160, RX path 170, and optional timing strobe 180, respectively.

In FIG. 4, the first switch 421 is connected to the first RF RX buffer 424 and the second switch 441 is not connected (ie, connected to ground) during the first reception mode such as the 3G RAT reception mode. . In this configuration, when the 2G / 3G dual mode receiver 414 is in the 3G receive mode, the received 3G signal is digitized by the ADC 422 and the first digital data sample stream is collected in the first RF RX buffer 424. Lose. The RF IC 410 can then send the sample from the buffer 425 to the BB IC 450 via the 3G DigRF interface 430, 432. The second RF RX buffer 426 is assumed to be empty, but if the second RF RX buffer 426 had data from a previous second receive mode, such as the 2G RAT receive mode, then the second RF RX buffer ( The contents of 426 will be emptied through interlacing the contents of this second RF RX buffer 426 with the contents of the first RF RX buffer 424. If the second RF RX buffer 426 is empty, the second RF RX buffer will be stopped until it begins to fill from the ADC 422.

During discontinuous activity intervals such as those occurring during the 3G discontinuous reception mode, the first switch 421 is not connected (ie, connected to ground) and the second switch 441 is connected to the first RF RX buffer 424. In this situation, data from the 2G / 3G dual mode RX 414 is not available at the ADC 422. In this case, there is no data available from RATs (eg 3G and 2G RATs). Instead of losing timing across the 3G DigRF interface due to the absence of samples over interfaces 430 and 432, dummy data generator 440 generates dummy data samples and sends them to first RF RX buffer 424.

The dummy data sample allows the RF IC 410 to maintain timing with the BB IC 450 over the non-real-time 3G DigRF data interface 430, 432. As dummy data samples are collected in the first RF RX buffer 424, the RF IC 410 transmits the samples from the 3G DigRF interface 430, 432 to the BB IC 450 from the first RF RX buffer 424. To start. If a discontinuous reception mode occurs immediately following the 3G RAT reception mode, it is very likely that the second RF RX buffer 426 is already stopped. 5 is an example of transmitting a sample from an RF IC to a BB IC during a discontinuous reception interval, in accordance with some embodiments, described in detail later.

During the discontinuous activity interval of the 3G discontinuous receiving mode, the 2G / 3G dual mode receiver 414 may switch to a second receiving mode, such as a 2G RAT receiving mode. In this situation, the first switch 421 is connected to the input 491 of the second RF RX buffer 426. In order to maintain timing of the 3G data stream via the non-real-time 3G DigRF data interface during this discrete activity interval, the second switch 441 passes the dummy data generator 440 to the input 490 of the first RF RX buffer 424. Connect to Thus, the ADC 422 sends the digitized 2G receive mode signal to the second RF RX buffer 426 and the dummy data generator sends the dummy data sample to the first RF RX buffer 424.

Both buffers 424, 426 will be emptied to the BB IC 450 via the 3G DigRF interface 430, 432 because both buffers 424, 426 are full. Accordingly, the interlaced packets of the second RAT (eg, GSM RAT) received from the 2G / 3G dual mode RX 414 will be transmitted along with the dummy data packets generated by the dummy data generator 440. 6 is an example of transmitting a sample from an RF IC to a BB IC during the transition from one RAT to another during a discontinuous reception interval, in accordance with some embodiments, as described in detail later.

Therefore, the dummy data generator 440 generates and transmits a dummy data sample during the discontinuous activity interval period. As a result, the RF IC 410 maintains timing with the BB IC 450, including mitigating any time variation of the shared non-real-time data interface. The RF IC sample timing does not need to be reset after the discontinuous activity interval because the BB IC indicates that by sending a dummy data sample the data transmission for the first RAT is continuous and never stopped for any duration.

5 is an example 500 of sending a sample from an RF IC to a BB IC during a discontinuous reception interval. The sample or packet is transmitted from the RF IC to the BB IC in frame 510. 5 shows a series of consecutive frames (n, n + 1, n + 2, ...) 510 and a first of a 3G (eg WCDMA) RAT 530 being transmitted from the RF IC to the BB IC. Show data sample stream 540. This is the same as the example of FIG. 4 where the first switch 421 is in position 490 and the second switch 441 is not connected (ie, connected to ground). Prior to transmission, the RF IC turns on the first receive mode of one receiver 2G / 3G RX 414, as shown in FIG. 4, in response to a first command (eg, first timing strobe) 560, Receives an analog RF signal associated with a WCDMA RAT, converts the signal into a digital data sample stream, stores the sample in a first buffer, and then transmits this sample as a packet from the buffer to the BB IC in successive frames. Of course. The RF IC requires a period of 541 to turn on, adjust, and set a new receive mode before delivering valid data samples.

The RF IC then initiates timing sample timing maintenance in response to receiving the second command (eg, second timing strobe) 561 from the BB IC, suspends the first receiving mode, and dummy data sample 570. ) Is placed in the first buffer. This is the same as the example of FIG. 4 where the first switch 421 is not in position 490 or 491 (ie, connected to ground) and the second switch 441 is in position 490. The RF IC then begins to transmit the dummy sample / packet 545 from the first buffer to the BB IC. Thus, it appears as if the data transmission was not interrupted for the first RAT. The timing strobe does not have to coincide with the frame boundary.

The RF IC turns on, adjusts, and sets the receiver 549 in a new mode while continuing to transmit a dummy data sample 545 in response to receiving a third command (eg, another timing strobe) 563 from the BB IC. . After the receiver is set up, the ADC resumes sampling at the timing at which the dummy sample was generated, and the RF IC resumes transmitting the second digital data sample stream 548 associated with the WCDMA RAT 530. This is the same as the example of FIG. 4 where the first switch 421 is in position 490 and the second switch 441 is disconnected (ie, connected to ground).

The RF IC stops the first receive mode in response to receiving another command (eg, another timing strobe) 565 from the BB IC and begins placing the dummy data sample 570 in the first buffer. This is again the same as the example of FIG. 4 where the first switch 421 is not in position 490 or 491 and the second switch 441 is in position 490. The dummy sample then follows the received sample in the first RF RX buffer 424, and finally the RF IC 410 begins to transmit the dummy data sample 555 from the first buffer to the BB IC. Again the RF IC receives another command (e.g., another timing strobe 567), and in response, the RF IC continues to transmit the dummy data sample 555, turning the receiver 559 back on in a new mode, adjusting and Set it. Once the receiver is set up, dummy sample generation is turned off and the RF IC resumes transmitting the second digital data sample stream 558 associated with the WCDMA RAT 530. This is again the same as the example of FIG. 4 where the first switch 421 is in position 490 and the second switch 441 is not connected to the buffer 425 (ie, connected to ground).

Likewise, the RF IC stops the first receive mode and enters a dummy data sample into the buffer each time it enters a discrete receive interval and sends the sample to the BB IC.

Therefore, the RF IC does not need to regain timing by sending dummy data samples, indicating that data transmission to the first RAT is continuous (540, 545, 548, 555, 558) and never stopped for any duration. . Therefore, the RF IC 410 maintains timing synchronization with the BB IC 45 by transmitting dummy data samples during discontinuous reception time (ie, the time between the first stream 540 and the second stream 548).

6 is an example 600 of sending a sample from an RF IC to a BB IC during the transition from one RAT to another. In this example, the sample or packet is sent from the RF IC to the BB IC in a frame. 6 illustrates a series of consecutive frames (n, n + 1, n + 2, ...) 610, and an active 3G (e.g., WCDMA) RAT 630 being transmitted from the RF IC to the BB IC. 1 shows a data sample stream 640. Prior to transmission, the RF IC turns on the first receive mode of one receiver 2G / 3G dual mode RX 414, as shown in FIG. 4, in response to a first command (eg, first timing strobe) 660. Receive the analog RF signal associated with the WCDMA RAT, convert the signal into a digital data sample stream, store the sample in a first buffer, and then store the sample as a packet from the first buffer in successive frames. Of course, it transmits to the BB IC. This is the same as the example of FIG. 4 where the first switch 421 is in position 490 and the second switch 441 is disconnected (ie, connected to ground). The RF IC requires a period of turn-on, adjust, and set 641 for each mode before delivering valid RF samples.

The RF IC then initiates timing sample timing maintenance in response to receiving another command (eg, another timing strobe) 661 from the BB IC, stopping the first receiving mode, and dummy data sample 670. Starts placing it in the first buffer. This is accomplished by separating the first switch 421 from the first RF RX buffer input node 490 and connecting the second switch 441 to the first RF RX buffer input node 490. Finally the RF IC begins to transmit the dummy sample / packet 645 from the first buffer to the BB IC. Therefore, it appears to the BB IC that data transmission was not interrupted for the first RAT.

The RF IC may also be in a new mode before beginning to transmit another digital data sample 625 associated with the second RAT (eg, GSM RAT 620) while transmitting the dummy data sample 645 to maintain the timing of the WCDMA transmission. Turn on, adjust, and set receiver 626. This is the same as the example of FIG. 4 where the first switch 421 is in position 491 (and the second switch 441 is still in position 490). Prior to transmission, the RF IC turns on the second receive mode (e.g., the 2G / 3G dual mode RX 414 shown in Figure 4 is in GSM mode in response to one or more commands and / or the second timing strobe 661). Receive an analog RF signal associated with a GSM RAT, convert the signal into a digital data sample stream, store the sample in a second buffer, and then store the sample as a packet in a second buffer. Is transmitted from the BB IC to the BB IC.

The RF IC then receives another command (e.g., another timing strobe) 663 from the BB IC, in response to which the RF IC stops the second receive mode and continues transmitting the dummy data sample 645 while in the first receive mode. Resume. Upon resumption, the RF IC first turns on, adjusts, and sets the receiver 649 in the new mode. Once the receiver is set up, the ADC resumes sampling at the timing at which the dummy sample was generated, the dummy sample generation is terminated and replaced by the received sample, and the RF IC is connected to the second digital data sample stream associated with the WCDMA RAT 630. (648) Resume transmission. This is the same as the example of FIG. 4 where the first switch 421 is in position 490 and the second switch 441 is disconnected (ie, connected to ground). The RF IC then exits the first receive mode again upon receiving another command (eg, another timing strobe) 665 from the BB IC and begins placing the dummy data sample 670 in the first buffer. The RF IC then begins to transmit the dummy sample 655 from the first buffer to the BB IC. The RF IC turns on, adjusts, and sets the receiver 636 in a new mode while transmitting dummy data samples, and then transmits another digital data sample stream 635 transmission associated with a second RAT (eg, GSM RAT 620). To start. This is again the same as the example of FIG. 4 with the first switch 421 in position 491 and the second switch 441 in position 490. The RF IC then receives another command 667 from the BB IC, in response to which the RF IC stops the second receive mode and resumes the first receive mode. The RF IC turns on, adjusts, and sets the receiver 659 in the new mode while continuing to transmit the dummy data sample 655. Once the receiver is set up, the ADC resumes sampling at the timing at which the dummy sample was generated, and the RF IC resumes transmitting the second digital data sample stream 658 associated with the WCDMA RAT 630. This is again the same as the example of FIG. 4 where the first switch 421 is in position 490 and the second switch 441 is disconnected (or connected to ground).

Likewise, whenever the RF IC stops the first receive mode, it begins placing dummy data samples in the buffer and transmits the samples to the BB IC in packets interlaced with the data packets associated with the second RAT. The RF IC transmits them using the same criteria regardless of whether they contain received samples, ie dummy samples.

In the foregoing specification, specific embodiments have been described. However, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates that the embodiments may be variously modified or modified without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of teaching of the present invention.

The advantages, advantages, problem solutions, and element (s) of which the benefits, advantages, or solutions may create or become more prominent are not to be construed as significant, necessary or fundamental characteristics or elements of any or all of the claims. do. The present invention is limited only by the appended claims and all equivalents thereof, including corrections made while pending this application.

Moreover, in this specification, relational terms such as first, second, top, bottom, etc. may be used only to distinguish between entities or acts, and necessarily require actual relations or ordering between such entities or acts. It is not implied or implied. The terms “comprising”, “comprising”, “comprising”, “comprising” or derivatives thereof encompass non-exclusive inclusion and thus constitute, comprise, include, A nesting process, method, article, or apparatus does not include only these elements but may include other elements not expressly mentioned or inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Elements with the words "comprising ...", "with ...", "including ...", "comprising ..." constitute those elements without further restriction, It is not intended to exclude the presence of additional identical elements in processes, methods, articles, or devices that comprise, include, include. A singular form means one or more unless specifically stated otherwise herein. The term “substantially”, “essentially”, “approximately”, “about” or variations thereof means close as understood by one skilled in the art, which term is 10% in some non-limiting embodiments and in other embodiments. 5%, in other embodiments 1%, in other embodiments is defined as being within 0.5%. As used herein, the term "coupled" means connected, and does not necessarily mean direct or necessarily mechanical. A device or structure that is "configured" in a particular way is configured at least in that way, but may be configured in other ways not mentioned.

Some embodiments, together with some, most, or all of the functionality of certain non-processor circuits, methods and / or apparatuses described herein, include microprocessors, digital signal processors, customized processors, and field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). The same may be comprised of one or more general or special processors (or “processing devices”) and unique storage program instructions (including software and firmware) that control one or more processors to be implemented. Or some or all of the functions may be implemented by a state machine that does not have stored program instructions, or may be implemented in one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) in which each function or combination of functions is implemented as custom logic. have. Of course, a combination of the two can also be used.

Further embodiments may be implemented as a computer readable storage medium having stored thereon computer readable code for programming a computer (eg, including a processor) that performs the methods described and claimed herein. Examples of such computer readable storage media include hard disks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, Read Only Memory (ROM), Programmable Read Only Memory (PROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), Electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) and flash memory include, but are not limited to. Moreover, those skilled in the art will be able to easily generate such software instructions, programs and ICs with minimal experimentation in accordance with the concepts and principles of the present invention, despite considerable effort and many design choices, for example, depending on available time, current technical and economic considerations. It is expected to be able.

The Summary of the Invention is provided so that the reader can quickly identify the features of the technology disclosure. This summary is submitted on the condition that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope and meaning of the claims. In addition, in the above detailed description, it can be seen that various features are combined together in various embodiments in order to systematically describe the present specification. This method of the present specification should not be construed as reflecting the intention that the claimed embodiments require more than the features explicitly stated in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter does not necessarily reflect all the features of one disclosed embodiment. Accordingly, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate claim.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The accompanying drawings are included to constitute a part of this specification together with the detailed description, and are provided to explain embodiments of the concept including the claimed subject matter in detail and to explain various principles and advantages of the embodiments. Like reference numerals denote the same or functionally similar elements throughout.

1 is a block diagram of an RF IC in communication with a BB IC using a 3G DigRF interface.

2 is a flowchart of a method in which an RF IC maintains timing over discrete activity intervals, in accordance with some embodiments.

3 is a flowchart of how a BB IC maintains timing over discrete activity intervals, in accordance with some embodiments.

4 is a block diagram of an RF IC including a dummy data generator in communication with a BB IC using a 3G DigRF interface, in accordance with some embodiments.

5 illustrates an example of transmitting a sample from an RF IC to a BB IC during a discontinuous reception interval, in accordance with some embodiments.

6 illustrates an example of sending a sample from an RF IC to a BB IC during the transition from one RAT to another during a discontinuous reception interval, in accordance with some embodiments.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings are exaggerated compared to other elements to better understand the embodiments of the present invention.

The components of the apparatus and method are shown as conventional symbols where appropriate in the drawings, and specific details suitable for understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art that may utilize the advantages of the present invention. Show details together.

Claims (20)

A radio frequency (RF) IC for maintaining timing across discontinuous activity gaps for a non-real time data interface, A unit for initiating a first receive mode at the RF IC in response to receiving a first command from a base band IC; A unit for converting the analog RF signals received by the first reception mode into a first digital data sample stream at a predetermined sample rate; A unit for collecting the first digital data sample stream in a first buffer; A unit for transmitting samples from the first buffer to the BB IC over the non-real-time data interface at a first rate different from the predetermined sample rate when a transport mechanism is available; A unit for stopping the first receiving mode in response to receiving a second command from the BB IC; A unit for placing dummy data samples into the first buffer at the predetermined sample rate after the first digital data sample stream; A unit for continuously transmitting the samples from the first buffer to the BB IC at the first rate when the transport mechanism is available; A unit for resuming the first reception mode in response to receiving a third command from the BB IC; A unit for converting the analog RF signals received by the first reception mode into a second digital data sample stream at the predetermined sample rate; A unit for stopping placing said dummy data samples in said first buffer; A unit for initiating placing said second digital data sample stream into said first buffer after said dummy data samples; And A unit for continuously transmitting the samples from the first buffer to the BB IC at a second rate different from the predetermined sample rate when the transport mechanism is available RF IC comprising a. The method of claim 1, A unit for transmitting the first command synchronizes timing between the RF IC and the BB IC. The method of claim 1, And the samples are transmitted in packets. The method of claim 3, The dummy data samples are transmitted as a dummy data packet. The method of claim 4, wherein The dummy data packet informs the BB IC to replace the dummy data packet with a predetermined number of dummy data samples. The method of claim 3, The unit for transmitting the samples, A unit for gathering a plurality of digital data samples into packets; And A unit for adding the packets to a queue of packets waiting to be sent to the BB IC RF IC further comprising. The method of claim 1, The first receiving mode is an RF IC for receiving analog RF signals of a first radio access technology (RAT). The method of claim 1, A unit for initiating a second receive mode in the RF IC in response to receiving the second command from the BB IC; A unit for converting the analog RF signals received by the second reception mode into a digital data sample stream to another predetermined sample rate; A unit for collecting the digital data sample stream in a second buffer; A unit for transmitting samples interlaced with samples from the first buffer to the BB IC from the second buffer via the non-real-time data interface when the transport mechanism is available; And A unit for stopping the second receiving mode in response to receiving the third command from the BB IC RF IC further comprising. The method of claim 8, The second receiving mode is an RF IC for receiving analog RF signals of a second radio access technology (RAT). The method of claim 1, And the first buffer is filled to a predetermined threshold before transmitting samples. The method of claim 1, And the dummy data samples comprise digital data having a null value. A baseband (BB) IC for maintaining timing over discrete activity intervals for a non-real time data interface, A unit for transmitting a first command to a radio frequency (RF) IC for initial synchronization; A unit for receiving a first digital data sample stream of data packets from a first receiving mode from the RF IC at a first rate via the non-real-time data interface; A unit for receiving the first digital data sample stream and placing them in a first buffer; A unit for transmitting the first digital data sample stream from the first buffer to a first modem at a different rate than the first rate; A unit for sending a second command to the RF IC for stopping the first reception mode; A unit for receiving dummy data samples in a dummy data packet from the RF IC via the non-real-time data interface; A unit for placing the dummy data samples in the first buffer; A unit for transmitting the dummy data samples from the first buffer to the first modem at a rate different from the first rate; A unit for sending a third command to the RF IC to resume the first reception mode; After a first predetermined time interval for the third command, a second digital data sample stream of data packets from the first reception mode is received from the RF IC via the non-real-time data interface. A unit for receiving at a rate; A unit for placing the second digital data sample stream in the first buffer; And A unit for transmitting the second digital data sample stream from the first buffer to the first modem at a rate different from the first rate BB IC comprising a. The method of claim 12, And the dummy data packets comprise a plurality of dummy samples. The method of claim 12, And the dummy data packets inform the BB IC to replace the dummy data packets with a predetermined number of dummy data samples. The method of claim 12, Each data packet including a header including information about radio access technology (RAT) associated with the data packet. The method of claim 12, The first digital data sample stream is associated with a first radio access technology (RAT). The method of claim 12, For receiving from the RF IC a digital data sample stream of data packets interlaced with the dummy data packets containing the dummy data samples from a second receive mode at a second rate via the non-real-time data interface. unit; A unit for placing the digital data sample stream in a second buffer; And A unit for transmitting the second digital data sample stream from the second buffer to a second modem at a different rate than the second rate BB IC further comprising. The method of claim 17, The digital data sample stream is associated with a second radio access technology (RAT). The method of claim 17, And the unit for transmitting the second command further comprises a unit for initiating the second reception mode. The method of claim 17, And the unit for transmitting the third command further comprises a unit for stopping the second receiving mode.

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