US 20040132474A1

(19) United States

(12) Patent Application Publication (10) Pub. No.: US 2004/0132474 A1
Wala 43 Pub. Date: Jul. 8 9 2004

(54) POINT-TO-MULTIPOINT DIGITAL RADIO Related US. Application Data

FREQUENCY TRANSPORT
(63) Continuation of application No. 09/619,431, ?led on
Jul. 19, 2000, noW Pat. No. 6,704,545.
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Correspondence
AND ASSOCIATES
Address: LLC . . . ..................................................... ..
............................................................ ..

P.O. BOX 581339 (57) ABSTRACT

MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55458-1339 (US)
A digital radio frequency transport system that performs
(73) Assignee; ADC Telecommunications, Inc, Eden bi-directional simultaneous digital radio frequency distribu
Prairie, MN tion is provided. The transport system includes a digital host
unit and at least tWo digital remote units coupled to the
(21) App1_ NO_; 10/740,944 digital host unit. The bi-directional simultaneous digital
radio frequency distribution is performed betWeen the digital
(22) Filed: Dec. 19, 2003 host unit and the at least tWo digital remote units.

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US 2004/0132474 A1 Jul. 8, 2004

POINT-TO-MULTIPOINT DIGITAL RADIO approach, RF signals are received from a bi-directional

FREQUENCY TRANSPORT ampli?er or base station. The RF signals directly modulate
an optical signal, Which is transported throughout the build
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED ing as analog modulated light signals over ?ber optic cable.
APPLICATIONS Unfortunately, conventional systems using analog optical
[0001] This application is a continuation of US. applica modulation transmission over optical ?bers require highly
tion Ser. No. 09/619,431, ?led Jul. 19, 2000, entitled sophisticated linear lasers to achieve adequate performance.
POINT-TO-MULTIPOINT DIGITAL RADIO FRE Also, analog optical systems are limited in the distance
QUENCY TRANSPOR , Which is incorporated herein by signals can be transmitted in the building. Typically, this
reference. limitation is made Worse due to the use of multimode ?ber
that is conventionally available in buildings. Multimode
TECHNICAL FIELD ?ber is Wider than single mode ?ber and supports a number
of different re?ection modes so that signals tend to exhibit
[0002] The present invention is related to high capacity dispersion at the terminating end of the ?ber. In addition,
mobile communications systems, and more particularly to a analog installation typically includes signi?cant balancing
point-to-multipoint digital micro-cellular communication When setting up the system. Further, RF levels in the system
system. need to be balanced With the optical levels. If there is optical
attenuation, the RF levels need to be readjusted. In addition,
BACKGROUND INFORMATION if the connectors are not Well cleaned or properly secured,
[0003] With the Widespread use of Wireless technologies the RF levels can change.
additional signal coverage is needed in urban as Well as
[0007] DigitiZation of the RF spectrum prior to transport
suburban areas. One obstacle to providing full coverage in solves many of these problems. The level and dynamic range
these areas is steel frame buildings. Inside these tall shiny of digitally transported RF remains unaffected over a Wide
buildings (TSBs), signals transmitted from Wireless base range of path loss. This alloWs for much greater distances to
stations attenuate dramatically and thus signi?cantly impact be covered, and eliminates the path loss compensation
the ability to communicate With Wireless telephones located problem. HoWever, this has been strictly a point-to-point
in the buildings. In some buildings, very loW poWer ceiling architecture. One draWback With digitally transported RF in
mounted transmitters are mounted in hallWays and confer a point-to-point architecture is the equipment and cost
ence rooms Within the building to distribute signals through requirement. A host RF to digital interface device is needed
out the building. Signals are typically fed from a single point for each remote antenna unit. In particular, for use Within a
and then split in order to feed the signals to different points building or building complex the number of RF to digital
in the building. interface devices and the ?ber to connect these devices is
[0004] In order to provide coverage a single radio fre burdensome. For example, in a building having 20 ?oors, the
quency (RF) source needs to simultaneously feeds multiple requirement may include 20 host RF to digital interface
antenna units, each providing coverage to a different part of devices for 20 remote antenna units, 1 per ?oor. In some
a building for example. Simultaneous bi-directional RF applications more than one remote antenna unit per ?oor
distribution often involves splitting signals in the forWard may be required. As a result, there is a need in the art for
path (toWard the antennas) and combining signals in the improved techniques for distributing RF signals in TSBs,
reverse path (from the antennas). Currently this can be Which Would incorporate the bene?ts of digital RF transport
performed directly at RF frequencies using passive splitters into a point-to-multipoint architecture.
and combiners to feed a coaxial cable distribution netWork.
In passive RF distribution systems, signal splitting in the SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
forWard path is signi?cantly limited due to inherent insertion [0008] The above-mentioned problems With distributing
loss associated With the passive devices. Each split reduces RF signals Within a building and other problems are
the level of the signal distributed in the building thereby addressed by the present invention and Will be understood
making reception, eg by cell phones, more dif?cult. In by reading and studying the folloWing speci?cation.
addition, the high insertion loss of coaxial cable at RF
frequencies severely limits the maximum distance over [0009] In one embodiment, a digital radio frequency trans
port system is provided. The transport system includes a
Which RF signals can be distributed. Further, the system
digital host unit and at least tWo digital remote units coupled
lacks any means to compensate for variations of insertion
to the digital host unit. The digital host unit includes shared
loss in each path.
circuitry that performs bi-directional simultaneous digital
[0005] Another solution to distributing RF signals in TSBs radio frequency distribution betWeen the digital host unit
is taking the RF signal from a booster or base station, doWn and the at least tWo digital remote units.
converting it to a loWer frequency, and distributing it via Cat
5 (LAN) or coaxial cable Wiring to remote antenna units. At
[0010] In another embodiment, a digital radio frequency
the remote antenna units, the signal is up converted and
transport system is provided. The transport system includes
a digital host unit and at least one digital expansion unit
transmitted. While doWn-conversion reduces insertion loss,
coupled to the digital host unit. The transport system further
the signals are still susceptible to noise and limited dynamic
includes at least tWo digital remote units, each coupled to
range. Also, each path in the distribution netWork requires one of the digital host unit and the digital expansion unit.
individual gain adjustment to compensate for the insertion
The digital host unit includes shared circuitry that performs
loss in that path.
bi-directional simultaneous digital radio frequency distribu
[0006] In another approach, ?ber optic cables are used to tion betWeen the digital host unit and the at least tWo digital
distribute signals to antennas inside of a building. In this remote units.
US 2004/0132474 A1 Jul. 8, 2004

[0011] In an alternate embodiment, a method of perform location that exhibits high attenuation to RF signals. Advan
ing point-to-multipoint radio frequency transport is pro tageously, system 100 uses digital summing of digitiZed RF
vided. The method includes receiving radio frequency sig signals from multiple antennas to improve signal coverage
nals at a digital host unit and converting the radio frequency in structures, such as TSBs.
signals to a digitiZed radio frequency spectrum. The method
also includes optically transmitting the digitiZed radio fre [0022] Point-to-multipoint digital transport of RF signals
is accomplished through a netWork of remote antenna units
quency spectrum to a plurality of digital remote units. The
or digital remote units 40 and 40 and a digital host unit 20,
method further includes receiving the digitiZed radio fre Which interfaces With a Wireless netWork 5 Which is coupled
quency spectrum at the plurality of digital remote units,
to the public sWitched telephone netWork (PSTN), or a
converting the digitiZed radio frequency spectrum to analog
radio frequency signals and transmitting the analog radio mobile telecommunications sWitching office (MTSO) or
frequency signals via a main radio frequency antenna at each
other sWitching of?ce/netWork. System 100 operates by
of the plurality of digital remote units.
transporting RF signals digitally over ?ber optic cables.
Signals received at DHU 20 are distributed to multiple
DRUs 40 and 40 to provide coverage throughout a building
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS complex. In addition, signals received at each of the DRUs
[0012] FIG. 1 is an illustration of one embodiment of a 40 and 40 are summed together at the DHU 20 for interface
point-to-multipoint communication system according to the to a Wireless netWork.
teachings of the present invention. [0023] In one embodiment, digital expansion unit DEU 30
[0013] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a is situated betWeen the DHU 20 and one or more DRUs. In
communication system according to the teachings of the the forWard path, DEU 30 expands the coverage area by
present invention. splitting signals received from DHU 20 to a plurality of
DRUs 40. In the reverse path, DEU 30 receives signals from
[0014] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of another embodiment a plurality of DRUs 40, digitally sums the signals together
of a communication system according to the teachings of the and transports them to a DHU 20 or another DEU such as 30.
present invention. This system alloWs for successive branching of signals using
[0015] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a DEUs 30 and expanded coverage to multiple DRUs 40 and
digital host unit according to the teachings of the present 40. This system provides an ef?cient Way of providing
invention. signal coverage for Wireless communication Without added
attenuation loss and distance constraint found With analog
[0016] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a systems. By using DEUs 30, antennas can be placed further
digital remote unit according to the teachings of the present from DHU 20 Without adversely affecting signal strength
invention. since shorter ?ber optic cables can be used.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a [0024] Digital transport system 100 includes a Wireless
digital expansion unit according to the teachings of the interface device (WID) 10 that provides an interface to a
present invention. Wireless netWork. In one embodiment, the WID 10 includes
[0018] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a either conventional transmitters and receivers or all digital
microcell base station according to the teachings of the transmitter and receiver equipment, and interface circuitry to
present invention. a mobile telecommunications sWitching of?ce (MTSO). In
one embodiment, the Wireless interface device 10 is coupled
[0019] FIG. 8 is an illustration of one embodiment of an to an MTSO via a T1 line and receives and transmits signals
over?oW algorithm for a channel summer according to the betWeen the MTSO and the DHU 20. In another embodi
teachings of the present invention. ment, the Wireless interface device 10 is coupled to the
public sWitched telephone netWork (PSTN). In one embodi
DETAILED DESCRIPTION ment, WID 10 comprises a base station and connects directly
to DHU 20 via coaxial cables. In another embodiment, WID
[0020] In the folloWing detailed description of the pre 10 comprises a base station and Wirelessly connects to DHU
ferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying 20 via a bi-directional ampli?er that is connected to an
draWings that form a part hereof, and in Which is shoWn by antenna. In one embodiment, the antenna is an outdoor
Way of illustration speci?c embodiments in Which the inven antenna.
tion may be practiced. It is to be understood that other
embodiments may be utiliZed and structural changes may be [0025] WID 10 communicates signals betWeen Wireless
made Without departing from the scope of the present units and the Wireless netWork via digital remote units DRUs
invention. 40 and 40. WID 10 is coupled to DHU 20. The DHU 20 is
coupled to at least one digital expansion unit DEU 30 and a
[0021] FIG. 1 is an illustration of one exemplary embodi plurality of DRUs 40. In addition, DEU 30 is coupled to a
ment of a point-to-multipoint digital transport system shoWn plurality of DRUs 40. The DHU 20 receives RF signals
generally at 100 and constructed according to the teachings from WID 10 and converts the RF signals to digital RF
of the present invention. The point-to-multipoint digital signals. DHU 20 further optically transmits the digital RF
transport system 100 is shoWn distributed Within a complex signals to multiple DRUs 40 either directly or via one or
of tall shiny buildings (TSBs) 2. Although system 100 is more DEUs 30.
shoWn in a complex of TSBs 2, it is understood that system
100 is not limited to this embodiment. Rather, system 100 in [0026] Each DRU 40 and 40 is connected through a ?ber
other embodiments is used to distribute signals in a single optic cable (or optionally another high bandWidth carrier) to
building, or other appropriate structure or indoor or outdoor transport digital RF signals to one of DHU 20 or DEU 30.
US 2004/0132474 A1 Jul. 8, 2004

In one embodiment, the ?ber optic cable comprises multi it is frequency coherent With the reference oscillator at the
mode ?ber pairs coupled betWeen the DRUs 40 and the host. Areference 17.75 MHZ clock is then generated to serve
DHU 20, betWeen the DRUs 40 and 40 and the DEUs 30 as a reference for the remote local oscillators. Because the
and betWeen the DEUs 30 and the DHU 20. In one embodi remote recovered bit clock is frequency coherent With the
ment, the DEU 30 is coupled to the DHU 20 via single mode host master clock, the host and remote reference clocks, and
?ber and the DEU 30 is coupled to the DRUs 40 via any LOs locked to them, are also frequency coherent, thus
multimode ?ber pairs. Although, transport system 100 has ensuring that DHU and DRU LOs are locked in frequency.
been described With ?ber optic cable other carriers may be It is understood that in other embodiments the bit rate over
used, e.g., coaxial cable. the ?ber may vary and the frequency of the clocks Will also
[0027] In another embodiment, the DHU 20 is coupled to vary.
the DRUs 40 by a direct current poWer cable in order to
[0031] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a
provide poWer to each DRU 40. In one embodiment, the
direct current poWer cable delivers 48 VDC to each DRU 40 communication system, shoWn generally at 200 and con
connected to the DHU 20. In another embodiment, the DEU structed according to the teachings of the present invention.
30 is coupled to DRUs 40 by a direct current poWer cable In this embodiment, a digital host unit (DHU) 220 is coupled
to provide poWer to each DRU 40. In one embodiment, the to a bi-directional ampli?er (BDA) 211. The BDA 211
direct current poWer cable delivers 48 VDC to each DRU 40 receives communication signals from a Wireless interface
connected to the DEU 30. In an alternate embodiment, device (WID) and transports the communication signals as
DRUs 40 and 40 are connected directly to a poWer supply. RF signals to the DHU 220 and receives RF signals from
In one embodiment, the poWer supply provides DC poWer to DHU 220 and transmits the RF signals to the WID. The
the DRUs 40 and 40. In an alternate embodiment, the poWer DHU 220 receives RF signals from the BDA 211 and
supply provides AC poWer to the DRUs 40 and 40. In one digitiZes the RF signals and optically transmits the digital
embodiment, DRUs 40 and 40 each include an AC/DC RF signals to multiple DRUs via transmission lines 214-1 to
poWer converter. 214-N. DHU 220 also receives digitiZed RF signals over
transmission lines 216-1 to 216-N from a plurality of DRUs
[0028] Both DHU 20 and DEU 30 split signals in the
forWard path and sum signals in the reverse path. In order to either directly or indirectly via DEUs, reconstructs the
accurately sum the digital signals together at DHU 20 or corresponding analog RF signals, and applies them to BDA
DEU 30 the data needs to come in to the DHU 20 or DEU 211. In one embodiment, DHU 220 receives signals directly
30 at exactly the same rate. As a result all of the DRUs 40 from a plurality N of DRUs. The signals are digitally
and 40 need to be synchroniZed so that their digital sample summed and then converted to analog signals and transmit
rates are all locked together. Synchronizing the signals in ted to BDA211. In another embodiment, DHU 220 receives
signals from one or more DEUs and one or more DRUs
time is accomplished by locking everything to the bit rate
over the ?ber. In one embodiment, the DHU 20 sends out a
directly. Again, the signals are all digitally summed and then
digital bit stream and the optical receiver at the DEU 30 or converted to analog signals and transmitted to BDA211. The
DRU 40 detects that bit stream and locks its clock to that bit signals received via transmission lines 216-1 to 216-N may
be received directly from a DRU or signals that are received
stream. In one embodiment, this is being accomplished With
a multiplexer chip set and local oscillators, as Will be by a DEU and summed together and then transported via
described beloW. Splitting and combining the signals in a 216-1 to 216-N to DHU 220 for additional summing and
digital state avoids the combining and splitting losses expe conversion for transport to BDA 211. DEUs provide a Way
rienced With an analog system. In addition, transporting the to expand the coverage area and digitally sum signals
digital signals over multimode ?ber results in a loW cost received from DRUs or other DEUs for transmission in the
reverse path to other DEUs or DHU 220. In one embodi
transport system that is not subject to much degradation.
ment, transmission lines 214-1 to 214-N and 216-1 to 216-N
[0029] The doWn-conversion and up-conversion of RF comprise multimode ?ber pairs. In an alternate embodiment,
signals are implemented by mixing the signal With a local each ?ber pair is replaced by a single ?ber, carrying bi
oscillator (LO) at both the DRUs and the DHU. In order for directional optical signals through the use of Wavelength
the original frequency of the RF signal to be restored, the division multiplexing (WDM). In an alternate embodiment,
signal must be up-converted With an LO that has exactly the transmission lines 214-1 to 214-N and 216-1 to 216-N
same frequency as the LO that Was used for doWn conver comprise single mode ?bers. In one embodiment, N is equal
sion. Any difference in LO frequencies Will translate to an to six. In an alternate embodiment, the number of transmis
equivalent end-to-end frequency offset. In the embodiments sion lines in the forWard path direction 214-1 to 214-N is not
described, the doWn conversion and up conversion LOs are equal to the number of transmission lines in the reverse path
at locations remote from one another. Therefore, in one direction 216-1 to 216-N.
preferred embodiment, frequency coherence betWeen the
local and remote LOs is established as folloWs: at the DHU [0032] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an alternate embodi
end, there is a 142 MHZ reference oscillator Which estab ment of a communication system shoWn generally at 300
lishes the bit rate of 1.42 GHZ over the ?ber. This reference and constructed according to the teachings of the present
oscillator also generates a 17.75 MHZ reference clock Which invention. Communication system 300 includes a base sta
serves as a reference to Which LOs at the DHU are locked. tion 310 coupled to a DHU 320. Base station 310 includes
conventional transmitters and receivers 323 and 328, respec
[0030] At each of the DRUs, there is another 17.75 MHZ tively, and conventional radio controller or interface cir
clock, Which is recovered from the optical bit stream With cuitry 322 to an MTSO or telephone sWitched netWork.
the help of the clock and bit recovery circuits. Because this DHU 320 is coupled to base station 310. DHU 320 is also
clock is recovered from the bit stream generated at the host, coupled to transmission lines 314-1 to 314-M, Which trans
US 2004/0132474 A1 Jul. 8, 2004

mit in the forward path direction and transmission lines combined RF signal is ampli?ed and then mixed by mixer
316-1 to 316-M, Which transmit in the reverse path direc 452 With a signal received from local oscillator 468. Local
tion. oscillator 468 is coupled to reference oscillator 415. In one
embodiment the local oscillator is coupled to a frequency
[0033] DHU 320 essentially converts the RF spectrum to
divider circuit 470, Which is in turn coupled to reference
digital in the forWard path and from digital to analog in the oscillator 415. The local oscillator is locked to the reference
reverse path. In the forWard path, DHU 320 receives the
oscillator 415 as a master clock so that the doWn conversion
combined RF signal from transmitters 323, digitiZes the
of the RF signals is the same as the up conversion. The result
combined signal and transmits it in digital format over ?bers
is end to end, from DHU to DRU, or DHU to one or more
314-1 to 314-M, Which are connected directly to a plurality
DEUs to DRU, no frequency shift in the signals received and
of DRUs or indirectly to one or more DRUs via one or more
transmitted. The local oscillator 463 is also coupled to a
DEUs.
synthesiZer circuit 476.
[0034] In one embodiment, DHU 320 receives signals
directly from a plurality M of DRUs. The signals are [0038] The output signal of mixer 452 is provided to
digitally summed and then converted to analog signals and ampli?er 454 ampli?ed and then ?ltered via intermediate
transmitted to base station 310. In another embodiment, frequency (IF) ?lter 456. The resultant signal is the com
DHU 320 receives signals from one or more DEUs and one bined RF signal converted doWn to an IF signal. The IF
or more DRUs directly. Again, the signals are all digitally signal is mixed With another signal originating from the
summed and then converted to analog signals and transmit reference oscillator 415 via mixer 460. The output of mixer
ted to base station 310. The signals received via transmission 460 is summed together at 462 With a signal produced by
lines 316-1 to 316-M may be received directly from a DRU ?eld programmable gate array (FPGA) 467. The output is
or signals that are received by a DEU and summed together then converted from an analog signal to a digital signal via
and then transported via 316-1 to 316-M to DHU 320 for analog/digital (A/D) converter 464 once converted the digi
additional summing and conversion for transport to base tal RF signal is applied to multiplexer 466. In one embodi
station 210. DEUs provide a Way to expand the coverage ment, the A/D converter 464 is a 14-bit converter handling
area by splitting signals in the forWard path and digitally a 14-bit signal. In other embodiments, the A/D converter 464
summing signals received from DRUs or other DEUs in the may be of any siZe to accommodate an appropriate signal. In
reverse path for transmission upstream to other DEUs or a one embodiment, the input signal from FPGA 467 is a dither
DHU. In the reverse path, DHU 320 also receives digitiZed signal from dither circuit 462 that adds limited out of band
RF signals over ?bers 316-1 to 316-M from a plurality of noise to improve the dynamic range of the RF signal.
DRUs, either directly or indirectly via DEUs, reconstructs [0039] In one embodiment, DHU 420 includes an alter
the corresponding analog RF signal, and applies it to receiv nating current to digital current poWer distribution circuit 6
ers 328. that provides direct current poWer to each of the DRUs
[0035] In one embodiment, transmission lines 314-1 to coupled to DHU 420.
314-M and 316-1 to 316-M comprise multimode ?ber pairs.
[0040] DHU 420 further includes a plurality of digital
In an alternate embodiment, each ?ber pair is replaced by a optical receivers 418-1 to 418-P in the reverse path. Receiv
single ?ber, carrying bi-directional optical signals through ers 418-1 to 418-P each output an electronic digital signal,
the use of Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM). In an Which is applied to clock and bit recovery circuits 445-1 to
alternate embodiment, transmission lines 314-1 to 314-M
445-P, respectively, for clock and bit recovery of the elec
and 316-1 to 316-M comprise single mode ?bers. In one
tronic signals. The signals are then applied to demultiplexers
embodiment, M is equal to six. In an alternate embodiment, 441-1 to 441-P, respectively, Which extract the digitiZed
the number of transmission lines in the forWard path direc
signals generated at the DRUs, as Will be explained in detail
tion 314-1 to 314-M is not equal to the number of trans
beloW. Demultiplexers 441-1 to 441-P further extract alarm
mission lines in the reverse path direction 316-1 to 316-M.
(monitoring) and voice information framed With the digi
[0036] Referring noW to FIG. 4, there is shoWn one tiZed signals. The digitiZed signals output at each demulti
embodiment of a DHU 420 constructed according to the plexer 441-1 to 441-P are then applied to FPGA 467 Where
teachings of the present invention. DHU 420 includes an RF the signals are summed together and then applied to digital
to digital converter 491 receiving the combined RF signals to RF converter 495. Converter 495 operates on the sum of
from a Wireless interface device such as a base station, BDA the digitiZed signals extracted by demultiplexers 441-1 to
or the like. RF to digital converter 491 provides a digitiZed 441-P, reconstructing baseband replicas of the RF signals
traf?c stream that is transmitted to multiplexer 466. Multi received at all the digital remote units. The baseband repli
plexer 466 converts the parallel output of the A/D converter cas are then up-converted to their original radio frequency
into a framed serial bit stream. At the output of the multi by mixing With a local oscillator 482 and ?ltering to remove
plexer is a 1 to P fan out buffer 407, Which splits the digital image frequencies. Local oscillator 482 is coupled to syn
signal P Ways. There are P optical transmitters 431-1 to thesiZer 476 and reference oscillator as discussed With
431-P one feeding each of the P optical transmission lines respect to local oscillator 468 above.
414-1 to 414-P. The digitiZed signals are applied to ?bers
414-1 to 414-P for transmission to corresponding DRUs [0041] In one embodiment, digital to RF converter 495
either directly or via DEUs. In one embodiment, P is equal
includes digital to analog (D/A) converter 484 coupled to an
to 6.
output of FPGA 467 the digitiZed RF signals are converted
to analog RF signals and then mixed With a signal from
[0037] In one embodiment, DHU 420 includes an ampli reference oscillator 415 by mixer 492. The signal is then
?er 450 that receives the combined RF signal from a ?ltered by IF ?lter 490 and ampli?ed by ampli?er 488. The
Wireless interface device such as a base station or BDA. The resultant signal is then mixed With a signal from local
US 2004/0132474 A1 Jul. 8, 2004

oscillator 482 and then applied to RF ?lter 484, ampli?er a DHU directly or via a DEU. Receiver 501 converts the
480 and RF ?lter 478 for transmission by a Wireless interface optical data stream to a corresponding series of electrical
device such as a BDA or base station. pulses. The electrical pulses are applied to clock and bit
recovery circuit 503. The series of electrical pulses are then
[0042] In one embodiment, FPGA 467 includes an alarm/
applied to demultiplexer 505. Demultiplexer 505 extracts
control circuit 474, Which extracts overhead bits from DRUs
the digitiZed traf?c signals and converts the signals from
to monitor error and alarm information. In one embodiment,
serial to parallel. The output parallel signal is then applied to
the FPGA 467 includes a summer 498, Which mathemati
digital to RF converter 595 for conversion to RF and
cally sums together the digital RF signals received from
transmission to duplexer 547. RF converter 595 is connected
?bers 416-1 to 416-P. In another embodiment FPGA
to the main antenna 599 through a duplexer 547. Accord
includes an over?oW algorithm circuit 486 coupled to the
ingly, radio frequency signals originating from a Wireless
output of summer 486. The algorithm circuit 496 alloWs the
interface device are transmitted from main antenna 547.
summed digital RF signals to saturate and keep the summed
signal Within a de?ned number of bits. In one embodiment, [0047] In one embodiment, digital to RF converter 595
the algorithm circuit includes a limiter. In one embodiment, includes a digital-to-analog (D/A) converter 509, Which
the RF signals are 14-bit signals and When summed and reconstructs the analog RF signal and applies it to IF 504 and
limited by summer 498 and over?oW algorithm 496 result in ampli?er 506. The analog signal is mixed With an output
a 14-bit output signal. signal of reference oscillator 515 by mixer 502. The output
[0043] For example, in one embodiment each of the digital of ampli?er 506 is mixed With a signal from local oscillator
RF signals received from ?bers 416-1 to 416-P, Where P is 519 that locks the RF signal With the return digital signal via
equal to 6, comprise 14 bit inputs. All of those 6 different 14 reference oscillator 515 that is coupled to local oscillator
bit inputs then go into summer 498. In order to alloW for 519. In one embodiment, the reference oscillator is coupled
over?oW, at least 17 bits of resolution is needed in the to frequency divider 517 that in turn is coupled to local
summer 498 to handle a Worst-case scenario When all 6 of oscillators 519 and 529. The local oscillators 519 and 529
the 14 bit inputs are at full scale at the same time. In this are also coupled to synthesiZer 521 that is coupled to
embodiment, a 17-bit Wide summer 498 is employed to programmable logic device 525.
handle that dynamic range. Coming out of summer 498 is [0048] RF signals received at main antenna 599 are passed
needed a 14-bit signal going in the reverse path. In one through duplexer 547 to RF to digital converter 593. The RF
embodiment, an algorithm circuit 496 for managing the signals are converted to digital signals and then applied to
over?oW is implemented. In one embodiment, the summer multiplexer 536 converted from parallel-to-serial and opti
and 498 and over?oW algorithm 496 are included in FPGA cally transmitted via optical transmitter 532 to a DEU or
467. In one embodiment, over?oW algorithm 496 acts like a DHU.
limiter and alloWs the sum to saturate and keeps the summed
signal Within 14 bits. In an alternate embodiment, over?oW [0049] In one embodiment, RF to digital converter 593
algorithm circuit 496 controls the gain and scales the signal includes a ?rst ampli?er 543 that receives RF signals from
dynamically to handle over?oW conditions. duplexer 547, ampli?es the signals and transmits them to
digital attenuator 539. In one embodiment, ampli?er 543 is
[0044] FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of an algorithm a loW noise ampli?er. Digital attenuator 539 receives the
863 for a channel summer 865 in order to limit the sum of
ampli?ed signals and digitally attenuates the signal to con
input signals 0 to 5 to 14 bits. In this embodiment, input trol the levels in case of an overload situation. RF to digital
signals 0 to 5 comprise 6 signals that are summed together converter 593 further includes a second ampli?er 537, Which
by summer 865. The sum of input signals 0 to 5 is reduced
receives the attenuated signals, ampli?es the signals and
to a signal having 14 bits or less by the algorithm 863. It is applies the ampli?ed signals to mixer 535. Mixer 535 mixes
understood that the algorithm 865 is by example and is not the ampli?ed signals With a signal received from local
meant to restrict the type of algorithm used to limit the sum
oscillator 529. The resultant signals are applied to a third
of signals 0 to 5 to 14 bits or less.
ampli?er 533 an IF ?lter 548 and a fourth ampli?er 546 in
[0045] For example, When the sum of the 6 input signals series to doWn convert to an IF signal. The IF signal is then
0 to 5 is greater than or equal to 13FFBh then the sum is mixed With a signal from reference oscillator 515 and the
divided by 6 for a signal that is 14 bits or less. When the sum mixed signal is summed With a signal from dither circuit
of the 6 input signals 0 to 5 is greater than 13FFBh but less 527. The resultant signal is applied to analog-to-digital
than or equal to FFFCh then the sum is divided by 5 for a converter 538 and converted to a digital signal. The output
signal that is 14 bits or less. When the sum of the 6 input digital signal is then applied to a multiplexer 536. In one
signals 0 to 5 is greater than FFFCh but less than BFFDh embodiment, the multiplexer 536 multiplexes the signal
then the sum is divided by 4 for a signal that is 14 bits or less. together With a couple of extra bits to do framing and control
When the sum of the 6 input signals 0 to 5 is greater BFFDh information. In one embodiment, multiplexer 536, clock and
but less than 7FFEh then the sum is divided by 3 for a signal bit recovery circuit and demultiplexer 505 comprise a mul
that is 14 bits or less. Finally, When the sum of the 6 input tiplexer chip set.
signals 0 to 5 is greater than 7FFEh but less than or equal to
3FFFh then the sum is divided by 2 for a signal that is 14 bits [0050] Programmable logic circuit 525 programs synthe
siZer 521 for the reference oscillator and for the up and doWn
or less.
conversion of local oscillators 519 and 529. The program
[0046] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a mable logic circuit 525 looks for error conditions, for out of
digital remote unit (DRU) 540 constructed according to the lock conditions on the oscillators and reports error modes
teachings of the present invention. A digital optical receiver and looks for over?oW condition in the A/D converter 538.
501 receives the optical digital data stream transmitted from If an over?oW condition occurs the programmable logic
US 2004/0132474 A1 Jul. 8, 2004

circuit 525 indicates that you are saturating and adds some the forWard path, a DHU 767 receives the combined RF
extra attenuation at digital attenuator 539 in order to reduce signal from transmitters 723, digitiZes the combined signal
the RF signal levels coming in from RF antenna 599 and and transmits it in digital format over single mode ?ber to a
protect the system from overload. DEU. In the reverse path, DHU 767 receives digitiZed RF
signal from a DEU, reconstructs the corresponding analog
[0051] In one embodiment, DRU 540 includes an internal RF signal, and applies it to receivers 728.
direct current poWer distribution system 5. In one embodi
ment, the distribution system receives 48 VDC and inter [0057] In another alternate embodiment, the Wireless
nally distributes 3 outputs of +3.8V, +5 .SV and +8V. interface device (WID) is a softWare de?ned base station,
and the interface betWeen the DHU and WID takes place
[0052] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a
digitally, eliminating the need for the RF to digital conver
digital expansion unit (DEU) 630 constructed according to sion circuitry in the DHU.
the teachings of the present invention. DEU 630 is designed
to receive optical signals and transmit optical signals. An
optical receiver 651 receives digitiZed RF signals and trans Conclusion
mits them to clock and bit recovery circuit 653 that performs [0058] Adigital radio frequency transport system has been
clock and bit recovery to lock the local clock and clean up described. The transport system includes a digital host unit
the signal. The signals are then split into X RF digital signals and at least tWo digital remote units coupled to the digital
by 1 to X fan out buffer 607. The signals are then transmitted host unit. The digital host unit includes shared circuitry that
via optical transmitters 655-1 to 655-X to X receiving units performs bi-directional simultaneous digital radio frequency
such as DEUs or DRUs. The X receiving units may be any distribution betWeen the digital host unit and the at least tWo
combination of DEUs or DRUs. In one embodiment, X is digital remote units.
equal to six.
[0059] In addition, a digital radio frequency transport
[0053] DEU 630 also includes optical receivers 669-1 to system has been described. The transport system includes a
669-X, Which receive digitiZed RF signals directly from digital host unit and at least one digital expansion unit
DRUs or indirectly via DEUs. In operation the signals are coupled to the digital host unit. The transport system further
received, applied to clock and bit recovery circuits 673-1 to includes at least tWo digital remote units, each coupled to
673-X respectively to lock the local clock and clean up the one of the digital host unit and the digital expansion unit.
signals and then applied to demultiplexers 671-1 to 671-X. The digital host unit includes shared circuitry that performs
Demultiplexers 671-1 to 671-X each extract the digitiZed bi-directional simultaneous digital radio frequency distribu
traf?c and apply the samples to ?eld programmable gate tion betWeen the digital host unit and that at least tWo digital
array 661. The signals are summed together digitally and remote units.
transmitted to multiplexer 657, Which mulitplexes the signal
together With a couple of extra bits to do framing and control [0060] Further, a method of performing point-to-multi
information. In addition, the multiplexer 657 converts the point radio frequency transport has been described. The
signals parallel to serial. The signals are then applied to method includes receiving analog radio frequency signals at
optical transmitter 659 for further transmission. In one a digital host unit and converting the analog radio frequency
embodiment, the signals are directly transmitted to a DHU signals to digitiZed radio frequency signals. The method also
or indirectly via one or more additional DEUs. includes splitting the digitiZed radio frequency signals into
a plurality of a digital radio frequency signals and optically
[0054] In one embodiment, the FPGA 661 includes sum
transmitting the digital radio frequency signals to a plurality
mer 665, Which mathematically sums together the digital RF
of digital remote units. The method further includes receiv
signals received from demultiplexers 671-1 to 671-X. In
another embodiment, FPGA 661 includes an over?oW algo
ing the digital radio frequency signals at a plurality of digital
rithm circuit 663 coupled to the output of summer 665. The
remote units, converting the digital radio frequency signals
algorithm circuit 663 alloWs the summed digital RF signals
to analog radio frequency signals and transmitting the sig
nals via a main radio frequency antenna at each of the
to saturate and keep the summed signal Within a de?ned
plurality of digital remote units.
number of bits. In one embodiment, the algorithm circuit
includes a limiter. In one embodiment, the RF signals are [0061] Although speci?c embodiments have been illus
14-bit signals and When summed and limited by summer 665 trated and described herein, it Will be appreciated by those
and over?oW algorithm 663 result in a 14-bit output signal. of ordinary skill in the art that any arrangement Which is
calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted
[0055] In one embodiment, DEU 630 includes an alter
nating current to digital current poWer distribution circuit 7 for the speci?c embodiments shoWn. For example, a digital
that provides direct current poWer to each of the DRUs remote unit is not limited to the receipt and summing and
coupled to DEU 630. splitting and transmitting of digitiZed radio frequency sig
nals. In other embodiments, the digital host unit is capable
[0056] In an alternate embodiment, the digital host unit of receiving and summing analog radio frequency signals in
(DHU) and Wireless interface device (WID) are located addition to or instead of digitiZed radio frequency signals. As
some distance from the building being served. The DHU in Well, the digital host unit is capable of splitting and trans
the building is replaced by a DEU, and the link betWeen that mitting analog radio frequency signals in addition to or
DEU and the remotely located DHU is via single mode ?ber. instead of digitiZed radio frequency signals. This application
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of this embodiment. A microcell is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the
base station shoWn generally at 700 includes conventional present invention. Therefore, it is intended that this inven
transmitters and receivers 723 and 728, respectively, and tion be limited only by the claims and the equivalents
conventional radio controller or interface circuitry 722. In thereof.
US 2004/0132474 A1 Jul. 8, 2004

What is claimed is: 16. The system of claim 15, Wherein the Wireless interface
1. A digital radio frequency transport system, comprising: device comprises a base station that couples directly to the
digital host unit via coaxial cables.
a digital host unit; and 17. The system of claim 15, Wherein the Wireless interface
at least tWo digital remote units coupled to the digital host device comprises a base station that Wirelessly connects to
unit, Wherein the digital host unit includes shared the digital host unit via a bi-directional ampli?er that is
circuitry that performs bi-directional simultaneous coupled to an antenna.
digital radio frequency distribution betWeen the digital 18. The system of claim 14, Wherein at least one digital
host unit and the at least tWo digital remote units. remote unit is to coupled the digital host unit.
2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a Wireless 19. The system of claim 14, Wherein at least one digital
interface device coupled to the digital host unit. remote unit is coupled to one of the at least tWo digital
3. The system of claim 2, Wherein the Wireless interface expansion units.
device comprises a base station that couples directly to the 20. The system of claim 14, Wherein the at least one
digital host unit via coaxial cables. digital expansion units are each coupled to the digital host
4. The system of claim 2, Wherein the Wireless interface unit via a multimode ?ber pair.
device comprises a base station that Wirelessly connects to 21. The system of claim 14, Wherein the at least one
the digital host unit via bi-directional ampli?er that is digital expansion unit is coupled to the digital host unit via
coupled to an antenna. a single mode ?ber.
5. The system of claim 1, Wherein the at least tWo digital
22. The system of claim 14, Wherein the digital host unit
remote units each include a main radio frequency antenna
includes a radio frequency to digital converter that converts
Which transmits and receives radio frequency signals. a main radio frequency signal to a digitiZed radio frequency
6. The system of claim 1, Wherein the digital host unit signal.
includes a radio frequency to digital converter that converts
a main radio frequency signal to a digitiZed radio frequency 23. The system of claim 22, Wherein the digital host unit
signal. further includes a multiplexer Which splits the digitiZed
radio frequency signal into at least tWo digital signals for
7. The system of claim 6, Wherein the digital host unit
optical transmission to the at least tWo digital remote units.
further includes a multiplexer Which splits the digitiZed
radio frequency signal into at least tWo digital signals for 24. The system of claim 14, Wherein the digital host unit
optical transmission to the at least tWo digital remote units. includes local oscillators coupled to a reference oscillator for
8. The system of claim 1, Wherein the digital host unit synchroniZation of the radio frequency signal in the forWard
includes local oscillators coupled to a reference oscillator for direction and in the reverse direction.
synchroniZation of the radio frequency signal in the forWard 25. A method of performing multipoint-to-point digital
direction and in the reverse direction. radio frequency transport, the method comprising:
9. The system of claim 1, Wherein the digital host unit is receiving analog radio frequency signals at multiple digi
coupled to each of the at least tWo digital remote units by a tal remote units;
multimode ?ber pair.
10. The system of claim 7, Wherein the digital host unit converting the analog radio frequency signals to digital
further comprises an alarm/control interface circuit coupled radio frequency signals at each of the digital remote
to the multiplexer. units;
11. The system of claim 1, further comprising a digital
expansion unit coupled to the digital host unit, Wherein the optically transmitting the digital radio frequency signals
from each of the digital remote units to a digital host
digital expansion unit contains circuitry that performs bi
directional simultaneous digital radio frequency distribution unit;
betWeen the digital host unit and the digital remote unit. receiving the multiple digital radio frequency signals at
12. The system of claim 11, Wherein the digital expansion the digital host unit;
unit is coupled to the digital host unit by a multimode ?ber
pair. summing the multiple digital radio frequency signals
13. The system of claim 11, Wherein the digital expansion together; and
unit is coupled to the digital host unit by single mode ?ber. converting the digital radio frequency signals back to
14. A digital radio frequency transport system, compris analog radio frequency signals and transmitting the
mg: signals to a Wireless interface device for further trans
a digital host unit; mission to a sWitched telephone netWork.
26. The method of claim 25, Wherein converting the
at least one digital expansion unit coupled to the digital analog radio frequency signals to digital radio frequency
host unit; and signals comprises amplifying the analog radio frequency
at least tWo digital remote units, each coupled to one of signals.
the digital host unit and the digital expansion unit, 27. The method of claim 25, Wherein converting the
Wherein the digital host unit includes shared circuitry analog radio frequency signals to digital radio frequency
that performs bi-directional simultaneous digital radio signals comprises synchroniZing a reverse path local oscil
frequency distribution betWeen the digital host unit and lator to a mater clock so as to reduce end-to-end frequency
the at least tWo digital remote units. translation.
15. The system of claim 14, further comprising a Wireless 28. A method of performing point-to-multipoint digital
interface device coupled to the digital host unit. radio frequency transport, the method comprising:
US 2004/0132474 A1 Jul. 8, 2004

receiving radio frequency signals at a digital host unit; converting the second digitiZed radio frequency spectrum
to analog radio frequency signals at each of the second
converting the radio frequency signals to a digitized radio
plurality of digital remote units; and
frequency spectrum;
transmitting the analog radio frequency signals via a main
optically transmitting the digitiZed radio frequency spec radio frequency antenna at each of the ?rst and second
trum to a plurality of digital remote units;
plurality of digital remote units.
receiving the digitiZed radio frequency spectrum at the 34. A digital radio frequency transport system, compris
plurality of digital remote units; ing:
converting the digitiZed radio frequency spectrum to a digital host unit; and
analog radio frequency signals; and at least tWo digital remote units coupled to the digital host
transmitting the analog radio frequency signals via a main unit, Wherein the at least tWo digital remote units each
radio frequency antenna at each of the plurality of include:
digital remote units.
29. The method of claim 28, Wherein converting the radio a main radio frequency antenna;
frequency signals to a digitiZed radio frequency spectrum a dupleXer coupled to the main radio frequency antenna
comprises amplifying the radio frequency signals. Which receives radio frequency signals in the reverse
30. The method of claim 28, Wherein converting the radio path and transmits radio frequency signals in the
frequency signals to a digitiZed radio frequency spectrum forWard path;
digital radio frequency signals comprises synchroniZing a a radio frequency to digital converter coupled to the
forWard path local oscillator to a reference oscillator so as to
dupleXer in the reverse path;
reduce end-to-end frequency translation.
31. The method of claim 28, Wherein converting the a digital to radio frequency converter coupled to the
digitiZed radio frequency spectrum to analog radio fre dupleXer in the forWard path;
quency signals comprises amplifying the analog radio fre
a multiplexer chip set coupled to the radio frequency to
quency signals.
32. The method of claim 28, Wherein converting the digital converter in the reverse path and the digital to
digitiZed radio frequency spectrum to analog radio fre radio frequency converter in the forWard path;
quency signals comprises synchronizing a forWard path an optical transmitter coupled to an output of the
local oscillator to a reference oscillator so as to reduce multiplexer chip set; and
end-to-end frequency translation.
33. A method of performing point-to-multipoint digital an optical receiver coupled to an input of the multi
radio frequency transport, the method comprising: pleXer chip set;
receiving radio frequency signals at a digital host unit; Wherein the digital host unit includes shared circuitry that
performs bi-directional simultaneous digital radio fre
converting the radio frequency signals to a digitiZed radio quency distribution betWeen the digital host unit and
frequency spectrum; the at least tWo digital remote units.
optically transmitting a ?rst digitiZed radio frequency 35. The system of claim 34, Wherein the digital host unit
spectrum to a ?rst plurality of digital remote units and includes an alarm/control interface circuit.
at least one digital expansion unit; 36. A digital radio frequency transport system, compris
mg:
receiving the digitiZed radio frequency spectrum at the
?rst plurality of digital remote units; a digital host unit, Wherein the digital host unit includes
a channel summer;
converting the digitiZed radio frequency spectrum to
analog radio frequency signals at each of the ?rst at least one digital expansion unit coupled to the digital
plurality of digital remote units; host unit; and
receiving the digital radio frequency signals at the at least at least tWo digital remote units coupled to the digital host
one digital eXpansion unit; unit, Wherein the digital host unit includes shared
circuitry that performs bi-directional simultaneous
optically transmitting a second digitiZed radio frequency digital radio frequency distribution betWeen the digital
spectrum to a second plurality of digital remote units; host unit and the at least tWo digital remote units.
receiving the second digitiZed radio frequency spectrum
at the second plurality of digital remote units;