Showing papers by "Motorola Solutions published in 2012"

Antenna Requirements for Software Defined and Cognitive Radios

Abstract: Antenna requirements for software defined radio (SDR) and cognitive radio (CR) systems are reviewed and the resulting challenges are discussed. Both concepts imply capabilities for operation over very wide bandwidths, of the order of one decade in some cases. This then becomes the main challenge for antenna designers. However, as the concepts evolve, some systems will work over limited bandwidths and existing or extended bandwidth antennas will be used. In the Paper the concepts are explained. As bandwidth is a major concern, the fundamental limits of performance are restated. For handheld radio antenna bandwidth and efficiency at low frequencies is the main problem. Both in the terrestrial fixed infrastructure and in space communication the difficulty of designing very wideband arrays to give the pattern control necessary for interference minimization is significant. In defence applications external handset antennas are seen to be necessary and extension to very wide bandwidths is also seen to be challenging. It is concluded that there is steady progress towards the realization of both SDR and CR, and this is throwing up very significant antenna challenges.

Method and apparatus for optimizing reader power consumption by varying poll parameters in an automated inventory tracking system

Abstract: Polling operations performed by a reader may be adjusted by a server The server determines at least one of volatility measurements or polling operation parameters based on information obtained from components within an automated inventory tracking system The automated inventory tracking system is part of an inventory management system The server also obtains volatility measurements from another system within the inventory management system The server incorporates the volatility measurements obtained from the other system, at least one of the volatility measurements or the polling operation parameters determined by the server, and power usage information associated with the reader into a periodic calculation to determine optimal polling parameters The server periodically sends the optimal polling parameters to the reader for adjustment to a polling operation performed by the reader within a coverage area

Method and apparatus for adapting a battery voltage

Abstract: An apparatus and method for adapting a voltage of a battery pack is provided through a switch control logic coupled to the cells of the pack. The switch control logic determines the output voltage generated by the cells and an operating state of the battery pack. The switch control logic is configured to selectively switch the plurality of cells between a series cell configuration and a parallel cell configuration based upon the determined current output voltage and the operating state of the battery pack.

Method and apparatus for detecting and mitigating radio interference among user equipment and base stations of geographically co-located and spectrally distinct wireless systems

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for detecting interference between spectrally distinct wireless communication networks. A first base station in a first network communicates with a first mobile device at a first frequency, and a second base station communicates at a second frequency with a second mobile device geographically co-located with the first mobile device. The power level of an interfering signal received at the first base station from the second mobile device may be estimated by sharing information between the two networks through an interoperability gateway. The path loss of a reference signal transmitted from the first mobile device to its base station is communicated to the gateway, along with a parameter associated with the transmit power level of the interfering signal. Based on this parameter and the reference signal path loss, the received power level of the interfering signal may be inferred.

Method and apparatus for amplifying a radio frequency signal

Abstract: A radio frequency (RF) amplifier structure provides highly efficient RF signal amplification across a wide bandwidth, when implemented in both inverting and non-inverting Doherty designs, by employing matching impedance transform circuits that comprise a low pass multiple section inductance-capacitance circuit and that provides impedance matching between the output of an amplifier device and a power combiner, wherein the output matching impedance transform circuit has approximately an odd multiple of 90 electrical degrees over the RF amplifier structure's frequency range of operation, and adjustable phase delay circuits that route an amplified RF signal to the power combiner and that are controllably adjusted based on a frequency of an RF input signal over an operating frequency range of the RF amplifier structure.

Power saving for a mobile device in a wireless communication network

Abstract: A method and apparatus for power saving for a mobile device in a wireless communication network includes a transceiver operable within an allocated spectrum of the wireless communication network. A detector is operable to detect a signal outside of the allocated spectrum of the wireless communication network transmitted from a network device. A processor is operable to configure the mobile device to be in a sleep mode wherein the transceiver is not operable and the detector is operable, and awaken the transceiver from sleep mode upon detecting the signal in order for the transceiver to communicate between an access point of the wireless communication network and the mobile device within the allocated spectrum of the wireless communication network.

Uplink interference management for a heterogeneous wireless network

Abstract: User equipment (UE), referred to herein as an interfering UE (130), can be detected that is proximate to a low-power cell (120), such as a micro-cell, pico-cell, femto-cell, a relay, or the like. The interfering UE (130) can be transmitting to the base station (110) at a power level that is producing high interference affecting uplink performance between a different UE and the low-power cell (120). A power adjustment message (140) can be generated at the base station (110). The power adjustment message (140) can be conveyed (156) from the base station (110) to the interfering UE (130). The power level adjustment message (130) can cause the interfering UE (130) to lower its transmission power (164), which reduces the high interference, thereby improving uplink performance between the different UE and the low-power cell (120).

Method and apparatus for identifying a multimedia broadcast/multicast service (mbms) area in a wireless communication system

Abstract: A method and eMBMS-enabled infrastructure device are disclosed that provide an updated mechanism for a client, or user equipment (UE), to report its location such that an eMBMS-enabled application desiring eMBMS location information can uniquely identify the MBSFN in which the UE is located. The method and eMBMS-enabled infrastructure device identify an eMBMS area associated with a user equipment UE by receiving, from the UE, a Multicast Broadcast Single Frequency Network (MBSFN) Area update message from a user equipment, wherein the MBSFN Area update message uniquely identifies an MBSFN Area and includes an extension identifier derived from one or more of a cell identifier, an eNodeB identifier, an identifier of a group of cells, a service identifier, a tracking area identifier, and a paging area identifier, and optionally further may include an MBSFN AreaID, and determining an MBSFN Area serving the user equipment based on the received eMBMS area identifier.

Exposure Compliance Methodologies for Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) Enabled Networks and Terminals

Abstract: Multiple input multiple output (MIMO) enabled handsets and base-stations feature antenna systems that generate electromagnetic fields for which relevant exposure standards and guidelines do not explicitly define compliance testing methodologies. Here, through computational modeling, we explore several field summation schemes for evaluating such exposures and propose compliance testing methodologies that limit the degree of exposure under/over-estimation for both base stations and handsets. The methodologies rely on scalar field probe measurements thus avoiding significant equipment upgrades and are applicable to cases where access to signals from each MIMO antenna element can be arranged.

Method and apparatus for activating a particular wireless communication device to accept speech and/or voice commands

Abstract: An apparatus, method, and computer program for initiating a word spotting algorithm ( 220 ) on one or more wireless communication devices in a first power mode to detect a keyword data sequence ( 224 ) embedded within a sampled audio signal ( 222 ). In response to detecting the keyword data sequence ( 226 ), the word spotting algorithm is terminated and a plurality of identification algorithms ( 230 ) are initiated on the one or more wireless communication devices operating in a second power mode to detect the presence of identification data ( 240 ). If identification data is detected on a particular wireless communication device it is activated to accept speech and/or voice commands ( 242 ). On the other hand, if identification data is not detected, the plurality of identification algorithms are terminated, and the word spotting algorithm is reinitiated on the one or more wireless communication devices that are then operating in the first power mode ( 244 ).

Method and apparatus for charging batteries having different voltage ranges with a single conversion charger

Abstract: Embodiments for a battery charger include a single conversion switched mode power supply having a bias winding on the primary side of the power transformer. The bias winding produces an output that is proportional to the voltage produced on the secondary winding, and is sensed by a programmable voltage sensing circuit. The programmable voltage sensing circuit is programmed by a voltage select signal from the secondary side of the charger to produce an sense signal that is proportional to the output of the bias winding by a selected factor corresponding to a battery type of a battery being charged.

Method and apparatus for enabling interoperability between a broadband network and a narrowband network

Abstract: A method and apparatus for enabling interoperability between a broadband network and a narrowband network includes an interworking server maintaining at least one virtual narrowband site, each comprising a plurality of virtual narrowband channels known by a controlling server within the narrowband network, wherein each virtual narrowband channel, when assigned by the controlling server, represents a corresponding set of broadband resources. A first broadband device coupled to the broadband network is associated with a first virtual narrowband site. The interworking server further exchanges signaling with the controlling server to enable communications by the first broadband device using a set of broadband resources corresponding to a first virtual narrowband channel of the first virtual narrowband site, wherein the first virtual narrowband channel is assigned by the controlling server for use by a virtual narrowband device which represents the first broadband device.

Efficient clustering scheme for OFDMA-based multicast wireless systems using grouping genetic algorithm

Abstract: The spectral inefficiency problem faced by the conventional multicast schemes in OFDMA-based multicast systems is investigated. To improve spectral efficiency, the multicast problem is formulated as a combinatorial clustering optimisation problem where multicast groups are divided into smaller subgroups and subcarriers are allocated to each subgroup. A novel multicast clustering scheme based on a grouping genetic algorithm is proposed to maximise the aggregate data rate. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme can achieve near-optimal performance while outperforming the conventional unicast and multicast schemes.

Method and device for automatic creation of a location-based talk group call with reduced messaging overhead

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of automatic establishment of a location-based talk group call with reduced messaging overhead. The initiating device may be a subscriber unit (SU). The SU determines a geographic reference location and generates location data representative of the location. The SU broadcasts a location-based talk group call header including the location data and including a location-based talk group call identifier field set to cause other SUs receiving the call header to receive and output subsequent data associated with the call header responsive to determining that its current geographic location satisfies the location criterion of the call. The location criterion may be fully determined by the initiating SU and specified in the call header, and may take the form of a specified radius that extends from the geographic reference location represented in the call header.

WiMAX/OFDMA Burst Scheduling Algorithm to Maximize Scheduled Data

Abstract: OFDMA resource allocation algorithms manage the distribution and assignment of shared OFDMA resources among the users serviced by the basestation. The OFDMA resource allocation algorithms determine which users to schedule, how to allocate subcarriers to them, and how to determine the appropriate power levels for each user on each subcarrier. In WiMAX, the downlink (DL) TDD OFDMA subframe structure is a rectangular area of N subchannels \times K time slots. Users are assigned rectangular bursts in the downlink subframe. The size of burst, in terms of number of subchannels and number of time slots, varies based on the user's channel quality and data to be transmitted for the assigned user. In this paper, we study the problem of assigning users to bursts in WiMAX TDD OFDMA system with the objective of maximizing downlink system throughput for the Partially Used subcarrier (PUSC) subchannalization permutation mode. Our main contributions in this paper are: 1) we propose different methods to assign bursts to users, 2) we prove that our Best Channel burst assignment method achieves throughput within a constant factor of the optimal, 3) through extensive simulations with real system parameters, we study the performance of the Best Channel burst assignment method. To the best of our knowledge, we are the first to study the problem of DL Burst Assignment in the downlink OFDMA subframe for PUSC subchannalization permutation mode taking user's channel quality into consideration in the assignment process.

Vectorially Combined Distributed Power Amplifiers for Software-Defined Radio Applications

Abstract: A new technique for distributed power amplifier (DPA) design maximizing dc-RF conversion is presented. The topology is featured by the vectorial combination of the output current sources when the transistors are loaded by their distributed output networks. To verify the design concept, two prototype DPAs (a 600-mW pseudomorphic HEMT (pHEMT) DPA and a ~ 23-W pHEMT/GaN DPA) are designed, realized, built, and tested. To the authors' knowledge, the second DPA achieved state-of-the-art power performance (i.e., the combination of output power, gain, and efficiency) for DPAs within the frequency range up to 2 GHz, well suited for software-defined radio applications.

Enhancing cellular networks via an adjustable handover boundary

Abstract: A method for handing off handset in a mobile communication network that defines at a base station (110) an adjusted handover boundary (106) different from a default handover boundary (104) between the base station (110) and a different base station (116). Handover adjustment parameters can be conveyed (120) within messages to user equipment (UE) (112) within range (124) of the base station. The handover adjustment parameters can provide specifics for handover permitting the user equipment (UE) (120) receiving the messages to perform handover operations (166) in accordance with the adjusted handover boundary (106) instead of the default handover boundary (104). The handover adjustment parameters can increment the cell individual offset (CIO) (212) when adjusting for "too late" (210) handover conditions. The handover adjustment parameters decrease the cell individual offset (CIO) (222) when adjusting for "too early" (220) handover conditions.

Quantization Error Spectra Structure of a DTC Synthesizer via the DFT Axis Scaling Property

Abstract: Phase accumulator quantization of a digital to time conversion (DTC) direct frequency synthesizer is analyzed for a fixed output frequency. This paper applies the time/ frequency axis scaling property of the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) to the analysis of the phase accumulator quantization error of a DTC synthesizer. It is shown, using a close approximation, that the quantization spectra associated with all possible output frequencies can be divided into a very small number of classes. The spectra within each class are predictably scaled and rearranged versions of each other. For a DTC that has a phase accumulator with I integer and M fractional bits, this result simplifies the number of DTC output spectra from 2I+M to less than M classes. Spur values predicted based on the analysis match closely with measurements performed on a 90 nm CMOS DTC synthesizer. It is shown that the choice of specific method of quantization (truncation or round) does not affect non-dc subharmonic spurs. The analysis also applies to a flying adder (FA) synthesizer.

Method and apparatus for processing group event notifications and providing group policy in a communication system

Abstract: A group event processing entity receives and processes a group event notification wherein a set of policy rules is determined that controls the performance of an action as relates to at least one of a member user equipment of a group session or an access network resource for the group session. Additionally, a group policy decision entity receives a request to establish a group access network resource for a group of user equipment and determines a set of applicable policy rules for establishing the group access network resource, wherein the set includes a policy rule that controls performance of an action when a base station in a wireless access network is unable to provide resources to support the requested group access network resource. The group policy decision entity provides the set of applicable policy rules to a group policy enforcement entity.

Mobile repeater system based ad hoc trunked sites

Abstract: A first Mobile Repeater System (MRS), configured to serve as an access point associated with a Basic Service Set (BSS), broadcasts a Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID). Other Mobile Repeater Systems (MRSs) join the BSS to create a local ad hoc trunked site in which each of the MRSs are communicatively coupled via at least one WLAN communication link. These MRSs include the first MRS and a second MRS. The first MRS can be configured to provide a control channel for communication with a first subscriber unit, and the second MRSs can be configured to provide a first trunked traffic channel for communication with the first subscriber unit.

Method and apparatus for operating accessory interface functions over a single signal

Abstract: An interface (100) is provided between an accessory (102) and a radio (104) to enable three functions over a single signal line (140) thereby minimizing pin count in a connector (112). The functions of accessory detect, one-wire memory and accessory PTT press are controlled over the single signal line (140) through the use of two comparators (116, 118) and two voltage dividers (106, 108, 110).

Methods for managing at least one broadcast/multicast service bearer

Abstract: A central resource manager (102) is communicatively coupled to a broadcast/multicast service (BMS) capable system (100) that includes a radio access network (134) having at least one BMS service area (126-132) and a total number of BMS bearers for transporting media streams. Each BMS service area has associated therewith a portion of the total number of BMS bearers. The central resource manager allocates, to a first local call controller (170) of multiple local call controllers (170, 180), a first portion of the total number of BMS bearers to be managed locally by the first local call controller, and identifies the first portion of the total number of BMS bearer to the first local call controller. The central resource manager also manages a second portion of the total number of BMS bearers for a subsequent allocation to at least one local call controller (170, 180) of the multiple local call controllers.

Method and apparatus for providing session initiator privilege, priority and presence notification for push-to-talk chat group communications

Abstract: A method for providing presence notification for PTT chat group communications includes a server receiving, from a communication device of a member of a chat group, a session initiation message to start a session for the PTT chat group. The session initiation message includes a member-selected priority. The server generates an event notification message that includes an indication that the chat group is active and has been assigned a priority, and sends the event notification message to communication devices of at least some of the other chat group members. Additionally, where a group priority has been assigned to the chat group, the group priority is assigned to the session. Otherwise, the member-selected priority is assigned to the session.

Method and apparatus for scheduling peer-to-peer communication links

Abstract: An evolved Node B creates or updates peer sets from measured performance information received from one or more stations. The measured performance information includes at least one quality metric associated with a downlink signal sent from the evolved Node B to the one or more stations. The evolved Node B determines excluded timeslots and preferred timeslots based on current resource assignments in each timeslot and based on the peer sets, marks potential resources in an uplink portion of a resource allocation map, and allocates one of the potential resources for peer-to-peer communication between a transmitter station and one or more receiver stations.

Apparatus and method for a dual watch receiver

Abstract: A receiver for a wireless communication device provides a dual path receiver receiving first and second protocol-agnostic, uncorrelated receive signals simultaneously. The dual path receiver generating first and second offset IF signals from the simultaneously received first and second protocol-agnostic, uncorrelated receive signals. The receiver utilizes at least one converter for converting the first and second offset IF signals into at least one serial synchronous interface (SSI) signal representing the spectrum at IF. At least one processor receives the at least one SSI signal and applies parallel processing paths to demodulate the at least one SSI signal into separate baseband signals. The processor provides interference detection of, and level control for, the first and second offset IF signals.

Portable rechargeable battery pack and external adapter for same

Abstract: Embodiments include a portable rechargeable battery pack, system, and external adapter that allow the portable rechargeable battery pack to both power a host device though a set of host contacts and provide power through a set of charging contacts. The portable rechargeable battery pack includes a charge protection circuit that prevents an excessive discharge current through the charging contacts and allows high charge current when charging the portable rechargeable battery pack. A discharge circuit allows a low level discharge current through the charging contacts to provide power to other devices.

Multi-band subscriber antenna for portable two-way radios

Abstract: An antenna ( 100 ) having an antenna structure is provided. The antenna structure is formed of a rolled conductive strip having a first section ( 112 ) with overlap between successive turns and a second section ( 114 ) with no overlap between successive turns. The first section ( 112 ) has an insulating layer to prevent shorts between the successive overlapping turns. The antenna ( 100 ) provides multi-band capability.

Electronic communication systems and methods for real-time location and information coordination

Abstract: The present disclosure provides electronic communication systems and methods for real-time location and information coordination between multiple people, such as, for example, in the context of medical emergencies. Specifically, the systems and methods may include a mobile device (100), a method of operating mobile devices, and a system including a plurality of mobile devices communicatively coupled therebetween for real-time location and information synchronization. In an exemplary embodiment, the systems and methods may be utilized in a medical emergency situation, i.e. for triage, enabling coordination of emergency personnel in an efficient manner. By way of the systems and methods described herein, a common reference point is geographically defined (210), data is gathered with location referenced to the common reference point (212), and personnel may select patients based on the real-time gathered information (220).

Method and apparatus for multi-stage adaptive volume control

Abstract: A method and apparatus for adaptively controlling the audio output (122) of a communication device (114) according to the noise characteristics of the receiver listening environment (119). An output volume for the communication device (114) is set by a user (e.g., listener 118). The communication device (114) can intermittently sample ambient noise (116) of its environment (119). A minimum signal to noise threshold can be established for audio output (122). A total adjustment for the audio output (122) is established based on the ambient noise (116), the user set output volume, and the minimum signal to noise threshold. The total adjustment is a product of a software volume adjustment (230) and a hardware gain adjustment (240). The software volume adjustment (230) and the hardware gain adjustment (240) is adaptively applied when the communication device (114) outputs audio (122).

Methods and apparatus for source authentication of messages that are secured with a group key

Abstract: Methods, systems and apparatus are provided for source authentication. In accordance with the disclosed embodiments, a key-management server generates (920) a key-delivery message that includes a key data transport payload secured with a group key, and a source authentication payload. Upon receiving the key-delivery message at a communication device, the communication device may verify (930) whether the source authentication payload of the key-delivery message is valid. When the source authentication payload is determined to be valid (940), the communication device thereby authenticates that the key-delivery message was transmitted by the key-management server.