Low Power RF to Baseband Interface for Multi-Mode Portable Phones

Summary

The main objective of I-MODE is to raise the level of integration in a DECT/DCS1800 transceiver, by implementing the necessary analog baseband low-pass filters and data converters in CMOS technology using low power techniques. The proposed work is closely related to and complements the OCMP Esprit Project (24123) and the ASPIS Esprit Project (20287). OCMP undertakes the development of a direct conversion transceiver for DECT/DCS1800 modes in a bipolar technology, whereas ASPIS undertakes the development of the baseband processing (DSP) function in a CMOS process for DECT/GSM/DCS1800 modes, operating from a 3V supply voltage.

In the I-MODE project, the required filters and data converters (not covered in the OCMP or ASPIS Projects) will be implemented, using low-power-effective techniques, such as current-mode, in a CMOS technology. The overall gain in reduced complexity, area and power consumption will be direct for the end product. As a matter of fact, the proposed action is an essential step towards a true one-chip system. Moreover, the use of low-power design methods can contribute to further lowering the power consumption profile for the end product. The project will facilitate the complete eventual integration of the analog/digital interface with the RF frontend (from OCMP) on a single BiCMOS chip or with the DSP (from ASPIS) to ultimately put all the baseband processing on a single digital CMOS chip.

With the successful completion of this project, the transfer of low power design techniques to practical use will be sufficiently addressed, and at the same time will enable a multi-mode portable phone to be offered to the market, using highly integrated low power components. In addition, INTRACOM's involvement in this low power design project will enable the company to improve its designs regarding analog and mixed analog-digital circuits, which can also be used in other designs concerning portable mobile phones. ICCS-NTUA will augment its low-power design expertise and adapt recently adopted design techniques - such as current-mode filters - towards the development of a real product. As I-MODE aims at developing novel low-power circuit ideas, with emphasis on current mode design techniques, these will consequently be broadcasted to the scientific and industrial communities through major conferences and journals.