Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to removing interfering signals in a broadband radio frequency (RF) receiver by implementing a silicon tuner arranged to replicate high quality factor (Q) performance without the advantages of using high Q components available for module tuners. In one or more embodiments, tuned filter elements within a broadband silicon tuner are reused to maximize the attenuation of unwanted signals while minimizing induced undesirable channel ripple. In various implementations, a number of tuned passive inductor/capacitor filter elements are combined as required such that filter elements for an unused frequency band are reconfigured to provide attenuation of and enhanced immunity to unwanted signals. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Abstract: An Automatic Gain Control (AGC) module for controlling Noise Figure (NF) and IM characteristics therein is disclosed. The AGC module comprises a plurality of AGC stages. Each AGC stage comprises a differential amplifier circuit, an input signal transistor and a current-steering circuit. Differential amplifier circuits of the plurality of AGC stages receive control signals at their differential inputs and their output is connected to a common load. The input signal transistors of the plurality of AGC stages receive a common input signal and is further coupled to the differential amplifier circuit and the current-steering circuit. The current-steering circuits and the control signals at the differential amplifier circuits control gain of the each AGC stage of the plurality of AGC stage, which is used to control the NF and the IM characteristics.

Abstract: An automatic gain control (AGC) system and method for implementing a wide dynamic range automatic gain control (AGC) are disclosed. The AGC system features a large gain adjustment suitable for integration in silicon tuners. The AGC structure employs a pair of classical current steering stages, architecturally arranged to share the gain back-off characteristic in a novel “ping-pong” arrangement. The AGC system and method deliver a wide dynamic range at low power dissipation in radio frequency (RF) systems, but may be implemented as well in other applications.

Abstract: An Automatic Gain Control (AGC) module for controlling Noise Figure (NF) and IM characteristics therein is disclosed. The AGC module comprises a plurality of AGC stages. Each AGC stage comprises a differential amplifier circuit, an input signal transistor and a current-steering circuit. Differential amplifier circuits of the plurality of AGC stages receive control signals at their differential inputs and their output is connected to a common load. The input signal transistors of the plurality of AGC stages receive a common input signal and is further coupled to the differential amplifier circuit and the current-steering circuit. The current-steering circuits and the control signals at the differential amplifier circuits control gain of the each AGC stage of the plurality of AGC stage, which is used to control the NF and the IM characteristics.

Abstract: An automatic gain control (AGC) system and method for implementing a wide dynamic range automatic gain control (AGC) are disclosed. The AGC system features a large gain adjustment suitable for integration in silicon tuners. The AGC structure employs a pair of classical current steering stages, architecturally arranged to share the gain back-off characteristic in a novel “ping-pong” arrangement. The AGC system and method deliver a wide dynamic range at low power dissipation in radio frequency (RF) systems, but may be implemented as well in other applications.

Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to removing interfering signals in a broadband radio frequency (RF) receiver by implementing a silicon tuner arranged to replicate high quality factor (Q) performance without the advantages of using high Q components available for module tuners. In one or more embodiments, tuned filter elements within a broadband silicon tuner are reused to maximize the attenuation of unwanted signals while minimizing induced undesirable channel ripple. In various implementations, a number of tuned passive inductor/capacitor filter elements are combined as required such that filter elements for an unused frequency band are reconfigured to provide attenuation of and enhanced immunity to unwanted signals. Other embodiments are described and claimed.