First Digital Envelope Tracking boosts efficiency of 5G/6G devices
Murata has launched Digital Envelope Tracking technology, realised through its proprietary power management integrated circuit (PMIC) and a digital pre-distortion (DPD) algorithm, to reduce the power consumption of advanced RF circuits for 5G and future 6G devices,
The Digital Envelope Tracking technology was developed to overcome the limitations of traditional hardware manufacturing and analogue methods in enhancing power efficiency for broadband signals such as 5G and the upcoming 6G. Integrating signal processing techniques with digital power management for efficient RF circuit control is crucial for further energy reduction.
To enable IC manufacturers to explore the capabilities of the new Digital Envelope Tracking technology and make informed decisions regarding their development processes, Murata has collaborated with Rohde & Schwarz to create a highly reliable, high-precision RF measurement setup that bridges the gap between theoretical software potential and practical hardware application.
Specifically designed for Digital Envelope Tracking applications, Murata’s PMIC digitises and optimises the voltage required by the RF circuit, supports broadband signals such as 5G, and helps to curb excessive power consumption. Murata’s DPD algorithm further reduces power consumption by minimising distortion and noise in the RF circuit. It is most effective when integrated into the BBIC or RFIC. The RF measurement system verifies the technology’s capabilities on realistic hardware, enabling IC development teams to make informed decisions and collaborate effectively and swiftly with Murata. This advanced technology combines Murata’s innovative hardware with sophisticated Digital ET capabilities from Eta Wireless Inc., a Murata subsidiary since 2021.
The RF measurement system comprises advanced 5G NR-capable test instruments from Rohde & Schwarz, including the SMW200A vector signal generator, specially developed software, and the FSW signal and spectrum analyser. Furthermore, it features Murata’s FPGA board with the DPD algorithm implemented, the PMIC/Tracker Module that supplies voltage according to Digital ET technology, and the software that manages these components. The test instruments support diverse communication standards, test methods, frequency bands, and modulation. The FPGA board outputs control signals while computing the DPD and regulates the PMIC output voltage, thereby achieving highly efficient transmission. This setup enables IC manufacturers to investigate the impact of Digital ET and DPD across various applications, contributing to the advancement of system development.
Mehdi Ben Frej, Sales Director Global RF Components at Rohde & Schwarz, says: “Through this collaboration, we have made the potential of Murata’s Digital Envelope Tracking technology in reducing power consumption more accessible. Our state-of-the-art RF instruments supporting Murata’s advanced Digital ET technology constitute a robust system for showcasing the potential of power-efficient mobile devices of the next generation.”
Kenichi Shibano, General Manager of the RFFE Technical Marketing Department, RF Device Division at Murata, states: “Our partnership with Rohde & Schwarz has allowed us to bring our Digital ET technology to the forefront, demonstrating to our customers its full potential for their practical applications.”
The Digital Envelope Tracking technology will be presented at Mobile World Congress 2025.
Image: RF measurement setup to demonstrate Murata’s Digital Envelope Tracking capabilities. Courtesy of Murata.
www.murata.com
www.rohde-schwarz.com
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