Characterization of a new integrated scan-phase antenna diversity circuit for automotive satellite radio reception

An integrated antenna diversity system is described which enables a high increase of reception performance for satellite digital audio radio services (SDARS). A detailed analysis is given for the gain and noise figure requirements specifically regarding the implementation in an integrated circuit. On base of this analysis a hardware demonstrator of the scan-phase antenna diversity system is realized in which the phase aligned rf combining and signal selection is implemented completely in a compact IC with a package size of only 8 mm by 8 mm. For evaluation the integrated scan-phase antenna diversity system is fed by different antenna signals of real test drives in the US. The diversity system proves its functionality in reducing the overall time of audio mutes by almost one order in magnitude compared to standard single antennas.