Logarithmic mean-square power detector

Abstract

A mean square power detector in accordance with one or more embodiments includes a gain or attenuation circuit comprising a plurality of gain or attenuation elements arranged for generating a plurality of amplified or attenuated versions of a radio frequency (RF) input signal. The mean square power detector also includes a plurality of mean square detectors coupled to the gain or attenuation circuit. Each of the mean square detectors receives a different one of the plurality of amplified or attenuated versions of the RF input signal. Each of the plurality of mean square detectors generates an output signal representative of the mean square power of the RF input signal for a different input signal level range. A summing element is coupled to the plurality of mean square detectors for combining the output signals of the plurality of mean square detectors to generate a signal representative of the mean square or root mean square of the RF input signal.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A mean square power detector, comprising:
 a gain or attenuation circuit comprising a plurality of gain or attenuation elements arranged for generating a plurality of amplified or attenuated versions of a radio frequency (RF) input signal;   a plurality of mean square detectors coupled to the gain or attenuation circuit, each of the mean square detectors receiving a different one of the plurality of amplified or attenuated versions of the RF input signal, each of said plurality of mean square detectors generating an output signal representative of the mean square power of the RF input signal for a different input signal level range; and   a summing element coupled to the plurality of mean square detectors for combining the output signals of the plurality of mean square detectors to generate a signal representative of the mean square or root mean square of the RF input signal.