Shared functional block multi-mode multi-band communication transceivers

#1. Field of the Invention

#The shared functional block multi-mode multi-band transceiver relates generally to communication systems which use radio-frequency (RF) transmitters and receivers (transceivers), and in particular embodiments, to systems and methods for multi-mode, multi-band Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) and Global System for Mobile (GSM) communication transceivers that share functional blocks to minimize size, weight, complexity, power consumption, cost, etc.

#2. Related Art

#The shared functional block multi-mode multi-band transceiver can be better understood with reference to the following figures. The components within the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the transceiver. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

#FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a system environment suited for various embodiments of shared functional block multi-mode multi-band communication transceivers.

#FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the modulator of FIG. 1.

#In the following description of preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the shared functional block multi-mode multi-band transceiver may be implemented. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the multi-mode multi-band communication transceivers.

#Cellular communication systems employ several different communication standards worldwide and utilize several different frequency bands. For example, the GSM communication standard operates over three different bands, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 1900 MHz, while the CDMA communication standard operates over two different bands, 900 MHz and 1900 MHz. Multi-mode, multi-band cellular telephones, with the flexibility to operate under multiple communications standards, afford consumers widespread applicability and allow manufacturers to benefit from the cost-efficiency of a common design.

#To realize a cost-efficient design, multi-mode, multi-band cellular telephones should minimize size, weight, complexity, and power consumption. Embodiments of the shared functional block multi-mode multi-band transceiver therefore relate to multi-mode, multi-band cellular communication transceivers that share frequency sources, amplifiers, and mixers between bands and modes. It should be noted, however, that transceivers according to embodiments of the shared functional block multi-mode multi-band transceiver are not unique to cellular communications and may be employed in a variety of communications electronics, including wireless transmission systems as well as wired systems. Thus, embodiments of the shared functional block multi-mode multi-band transceiver described herein may involve various forms of communications systems. However, for purposes of simplifying the present disclosure, preferred embodiments are described herein in relation to personal wireless communications systems, including, but not limited to digital mobile telephones, digital cordless telephones, digital pagers, combinations thereof, and the like. Such personal communications systems typically include one or more portable or remotely located receiver and/or transmitter units.