Novel Concept of a Digital SigmaDelta-PLL-Phase-Shift-Modulator

In this paper, a new concept for a software controlled phase shifter is presented. Hereby, a stable phase shift is realized for the locked loop output signal by digitally controlling the divider patterns of the SigmaDelta-modulator. In combination with a SigmaDelta-vector-signal-generator, it enables the realization of a purely software controlled quadrature amplitude modulation without mixers. Alternatively, it can be implemented in an amplitude independent transmission phase measurements. Furthermore, this concept enables an extremely high resolution of stable phase shifts, resulting in a realiable compact and cost efficient alternative to present hardware concepts with a much higher data rate or an extremely fine measurement resolution.