Active antenna array and method for relaying radio signals

US8599861B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• KATHREIN-WERKE KG · DE

Inventors

• Georg Schmidt · Lindflur, DE
• Johannes Schlee · Ulm, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 3, 2010
• Grant date: Dec 3, 2013
• Expiry date: Sep 28, 2031

Classification

• Technology area (CPC H): Electricity
• CPC primary: H04B2001/0433
• WIPO field: Telecommunications
• WIPO sector: Electrical engineering

Abstract

The present disclosure teaches an active antenna array for a mobile communications network. The active antenna array comprises a base band unit, a plurality of transceiver units terminated by at least one antenna element; and at least one link. The link couples the individual ones of the plurality of transceiver units to the base band unit. The link is a digital link and is adapted to relay a payload signal at a selectable payload rate. The digital link is further adapted to relay a timing signal at a fixed timing rate, when the timing signal is embedded in the payload at a selectable payload rate. The present disclosure further teaches a method for relaying radio signals and a computer program for manufacturing the active antenna array and for executing the method.