Rf architecture utilizing a mimo chipset for near field proximity sensing and communication

Abstract

A re-configurable RF architecture includes both a 2×2 MIMO mode and a 1×2 MIMO mode. The 2×2 MIMO mode includes a first RF chain coupled with a first dual band antenna and configured to both transmit (Tx) and receive (Rx) using two different RF protocols. The 2×2 MIMO mode also includes a second RF chain coupled with a second dual band antenna and configured to both Tx and Rx using a single RF protocol. The first RF chain may be coupled with a third antenna configured for near field proximity sensing. The RF architecture is reversibly switchable from the 2×2 MIMO mode to the 1×2 MIMO mode when near field proximity detection is required. In the 1×2 MIMO mode the Tx/Rx capabilities of the second chain using the second dual band antenna are retained and the first chain is configured for Rx only capability using the third antenna.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . An integrated circuit (IC), comprising:
 radio frequency (RF) circuitry configured to implement a 2×2 Multiple-Input/Multiple-Output (MIMO) mode and a 1×2 MIMO mode, the RF circuitry configured to reversibly switch between the 2×2 MIMO mode and the 1×2 MIMO mode in response to a mode signal electrically coupled with a RF switch, the RF circuitry including   a first RF chain electrically coupled with the RF switch and configured, when the mode signal is set to the 2×2 MIMO mode, to be electrically coupled through the RF switch with a first dual band antenna and to transmit and receive, using the first dual band antenna, first and second dual band RF signals, and   the first RF chain configured, when the mode signal is set to the 1×2 MIMO mode, to be electrically coupled through the RF switch with a near field proximity detection antenna, and to receive only, using the near field proximity detection antenna, a fifth RF signal, and   a second RF chain electrically coupled with a second dual band antenna and configured to transmit and receive third and fourth dual band RF signals in the 1×2 or 2×2 MIMO modes.