Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of mobile signal repeaters; and more specifically, to a repeater apparatus with a microcontroller and a method of operating the repeater apparatus for intermittent device communication without uplink noise contribution to a base transceiver station.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In modern telecommunications infrastructure, mobile signal repeaters play a significant role in extending the coverage area of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) by amplifying both uplink (UL) and downlink (DL) signals. Such repeaters are particularly useful in scenarios where direct signal reception is compromised due to physical obstacles, distance from the BTS, or other environmental factors that impede signal propagation. However, the conventional mobile signal repeaters have significant technical limitations that impact their effectiveness in large-scale deployments, particularly in Internet-of-Things (IoT) and smart meter applications. A primary challenge with the conventional mobile signal repeaters is their continuous operation that results in persistent uplink noise contribution to the network, even during periods when no IoT devices are actively communicating. This continuous noise introduction occurs due to the continuous activation of amplification components in both uplink and downlink signal paths, which not only amplify the desired signals but also introduce additional noise into the network during non-communication periods. The uplink noise contribution becomes particularly problematic in scenarios requiring extensive repeaters deployment for IoT networks, as the cumulative effect of multiple continuously operating repeaters can substantially degrade the overall network performance. This degradation manifests in several ways, such as a reduced BTS cell capacity due to increased noise floor during non-communication periods, interference with network operations when no communication is required, degraded quality of service for connected devices, unnecessary energy consumption during non-communication windows, limitations on the scalability of repeater deployments in dense IoT environments, and the like. These challenges are particularly pertinent in the realm of IoT devices and smart meters, which require reliable and consistent communication despite often being located in areas with poor signal coverage, but unlike traditional mobile phones, communicate only intermittently, such as often once per hour or once per day for brief periods. The situation is further complicated by the requirement to maintain efficient network resource utilization while ensuring consistent connectivity for devices that do not require continuous amplification.
[0003] Traditional approaches to addressing these issues have typically involved complex continuous monitoring systems and feedback mechanisms that attempt to manage signal levels and noise in real time throughout the operational period. These solutions often result in either compromised performance due to system complexity, increased costs due to sophisticated monitoring equipment, or continued noise contribution during non-communication periods when no communication is required, making them unsuitable for widespread deployment in cost-sensitive applications, such as IoT networks and smart meter installations where devices communicate infrequently and predictably. Thus, there exists a technical problem of how to provide signal amplification while eliminating uplink noise contribution during non-communication periods.
[0004] Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks associated with the conventional mobile signal repeaters.
SUMMARY
[0005] The present disclosure provides a repeater apparatus with a microcontroller and a method of operating the repeater apparatus for intermittent device communication without uplink noise contribution to a base transceiver station. The present disclosure provides a solution to the existing problem of how to provide signal amplification while eliminating uplink noise contribution during non-communication periods. An aim of the present disclosure is to provide a solution that overcomes at least partially the problems encountered in prior art and provide an improved repeater apparatus with an intelligent microcontroller and a method of operating the improved repeater apparatus for selective signal amplification without uplink noise contribution to a base transceiver station.
[0006] The object of the present disclosure is achieved by the solutions provided in the enclosed independent claims. Advantageous implementations of the present disclosure are further defined in the dependent claims.
[0007] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a repeater apparatus. The repeater apparatus comprises a donor antenna configured to receive radio frequency, RF signals from a base transceiver station, BTS, a microcontroller coupled to a radio frequency, RF transceiver in a downlink signal path, wherein the microcontroller is configured to maintain the repeater apparatus in a SmartWake state with uplink amplification disabled during non-communication periods and activate both downlink and uplink signal amplification during predefined communication windows in a predefined cycle, and a service antenna configured to establish communication with one or more IoT device during the predefined communication windows.
[0008] Advantageously, the microcontroller of the repeater apparatus provides an intelligent, selective operation that eliminates uplink noise contribution to the base transceiver station during non-communication windows while ensuring reliable communication for IoT devices during their scheduled transmission windows. By maintaining the repeater apparatus in a SmartWake state with uplink amplification disabled during non-communication periods and activating both downlink and uplink signal amplification only during predefined communication windows, the invention significantly reduces the RF noise footprint compared to conventional continuously operating repeaters, thereby improving overall network performance, enabling scalable deployment in dense IoT environments, reducing power consumption through efficient sleep-wake cycles, and providing cost-effective signal coverage specifically optimized for intermittently communicating devices such as smart meters and IoT sensors that typically transmit data only once per hour or once per day.
[0009] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of operating a repeater apparatus. The method comprises maintaining, via a microcontroller, the repeater apparatus in a SmartWake state with uplink amplification disabled during non-communication periods, activating, during predefined communication windows in a predefined cycle, both downlink and uplink signal amplification paths, and establishing communication, via a service antenna, with one or more IoT devices during the predefined communication windows while disabling uplink amplification during SmartWake state to minimize uplink noise contribution to a base transceiver station, BTS.
[0010] The method achieves all the advantages and technical features of the repeater apparatus of the present disclosure.
[0011] It is to be appreciated that all the aforementioned implementation forms can be combined. All steps which are performed by the various entities described in the present application as well as the functionalities described to be performed by the various entities are intended to mean that the respective entity is adapted to or configured to perform the respective steps and functionalities. It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0012] Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative implementations construed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:
FIG. 1 is a network environment diagram of a communication system comprising a base transceiver station, a repeater apparatus and one or more Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a repeater apparatus with wake control functionality, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 3 is a detailed circuit diagram of a repeater apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a method of operating a repeater apparatus for intermittent device communication without uplink noise contribution to a BTS, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0014] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practicing the present disclosure are also possible.
[0015] FIG. 1 is a network environment diagram of a communication system comprising a base transceiver station, a repeater apparatus with wake control functionality and one or more Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. With reference to FIG. 1, there is shown a communication system 100 comprising a repeater apparatus 102 configured to communicate with a Base Transceiver Station (BTS) 104 over a first wireless link 106. The repeater apparatus 102 is further configured to facilitate communication with one or more Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices 108 over a second wireless link 110. This configuration enables intelligent signal amplification with wake control functionality and reliable connectivity across both networks during predefined communication windows, ensuring efficient communication between the BTS 104 and the one or more IoT devices 108 while eliminating uplink noise contribution during non-communication windows.
[0016] Existing approaches in the field have attempted to address noise issues through various conventional methods, including continuous automatic gain control (AGC) systems that constantly monitor and adjust signal levels, feedback-based power management systems that respond to signal conditions in real-time, and static scheduling systems that operate on fixed intervals without adaptation to actual device communication patterns. However, these conventional approaches suffer from fundamental limitations that make them unsuitable for IoT applications. Continuous AGC systems, while effective for traditional mobile communications, maintain constant RF activity that contributes persistent uplink noise even when no IoT devices are communicating, negating their intended noise reduction benefits. Feedback-based systems require complex sensing circuitry and continuous monitoring that increases power consumption and system complexity, making them cost-prohibitive for large-scale IoT deployments. Static scheduling approaches lack the intelligence to adapt to varying IoT device behaviours and network conditions, resulting in either missed communication opportunities or unnecessary active periods that waste energy and contribute to network noise. Furthermore, none of these conventional approaches provide the specific combination of intelligent sleep-wake control, IoT-optimized signal processing, and predictive communication window management that would be required to achieve the advantages disclosed herein. Conventional repeaters employ continuous monitoring and reactive control systems, whereas the disclosed apparatus combines predictive intelligence with proactive sleep-wake management to achieve unexpected results. The integration of machine learning algorithms within the microcontroller 204 for predicting optimal communication windows based on historical IoT device patterns represents a significant departure from simple timer-based systems, enabling dynamic adaptation to changing device behaviours without human intervention. The simultaneous coordination of multi-band processing capabilities with sleep-wake control through a single microcontroller creates combined effects that are not achievable through conventional approaches, enabling the repeater to support diverse IoT protocols while maintaining minimal RF footprint. The specific configuration of bandwidth adjustment from 180 kHz to 20 MHz synchronized with wake cycles provides advantages that extend beyond simple power savings, including optimized spectrum utilization and reduced interference with adjacent frequency bands during IoT transmission periods. The disclosed sleep-wake control methodology results in a network noise floor reduction as compared to continuously operating repeaters, while simultaneously improving IoT device communication success rates due to reduced interference during transmission windows. The counterintuitive result occurs because the intelligent timing control eliminates noise contributions during non-communication periods while concentrating full amplification power during actual device transmissions, creating effects that would not be apparent to skilled artisans. Additionally, the power consumption profile shows unexpected efficiency gains, with total energy consumption reduced as compared to conventional systems, while maintaining superior signal quality metrics including improved signal-to-noise ratios and reduced bit error rates. The microcontroller implements a three-tier control algorithm that differentiates the invention from conventional timing-based systems, comprising a base scheduling engine that manages fundamental sleep-wake cycles based on configured parameters ranging from 10 minutes to 24 hours, an adaptive learning module that analyses historical communication patterns of connected IoT devices 108 and automatically adjusts wake windows to optimize for actual device transmission behaviours including compensation for seasonal variations in smart meter reporting schedules and adaptation to changing IoT sensor sampling rates, and a real-time optimization engine that monitors network conditions and dynamically fine-tunes communication windows to minimize interference with adjacent repeaters and base station operations. The multi-layered approach enables the repeater apparatus 102 to achieve performance characteristics that would not be obvious from simple timer-controlled amplifier systems adaptive bandwidth utilization that matches device requirements.
[0017] The communication system 100 may be referred to as a system designed to enable selective data transmission and exchange between various entities or components, such as the repeater apparatus 102, the BTS 104, and the one or more IoT devices 108, across one or more wireless links, such as the first wireless link 106 and the second wireless link 110. The communication system 100 ensures reliable signal transmission and seamless connectivity during scheduled communication windows in environments where direct communication between the BTS 104 and the one or more IoT devices 108 is challenging, such as areas with poor signal coverage or high interference, while maintaining the repeater apparatus 102 in a SmartWake state during non-communication periods to minimize network noise. Examples of implementation of the communication system 100 may include, but are not limited to, an IoT network (e.g., a smart home with IoT enabled devices), a cellular communication system (e.g., 4G, 5G, or Long-Term Evolution (LTE)), an industrial communication system, smart meter networks, and the like.
[0018] The repeater apparatus 102 may include suitable logic, circuitry, and/or interfaces that is configured to selectively receive, amplify, and retransmit signals during predefined communication windows to extend the coverage area of the BTS 104 and improve the quality of communication in a given environment while maintaining a SmartWake state with uplink amplification disabled during non-communication periods. Examples of the repeater apparatus 102 may include, but are not limited to, a cellular signal repeater with wake control, a two-way radio repeater with intelligent scheduling, a hybrid IoT repeater with sleep-wake functionality, and the like. The repeater apparatus 102 may also be referred to as an intelligent wake control repeater or a selective amplification repeater.
[0019] The BTS 104 may be referred to as a base station in a mobile communication network that facilitates wireless communication between mobile devices (or the one or more IoT devices 108) and the network infrastructure. Examples of the BTS 104 may include, but are not limited to, a microcell BTS, a macrocell BTS, a smart cell BTS, a rural BTS, an IoT-specific BTS, and the like.
[0020] The first wireless link 106 includes a medium, such as a communication channel, through which the repeater apparatus 102 selectively communicates with the BTS 104 during active periods. The first wireless link 106 is configured to handle upstream communications, such as from the repeater apparatus 102 to the BTS 104 communications, only during predefined communication windows when uplink amplification is enabled. Examples of the first wireless link 106 may include, but are not limited to, a cellular link, for example, a Fifth Generation (5G), or 5G New Radio (NR) communication link, such as sub 6 GHz, cmWave, or mmWave communication link), a RF communication link carrying IoT device data, a smart meter communication link, and the like.
[0021] The one or more IoT devices 108 may be referred to as interconnected devices which may be configured to communicate and exchange data intermittently with one another over the second wireless link 110 during scheduled transmission periods, enabling automation and remote monitoring with minimal network interference. Examples of the one or more IoT devices 108 may include, but are not limited to, smart home devices, wearable devices, industrial IoT devices, healthcare IoT devices, agricultural IoT devices, IoT devices for vehicles, smart cities devices, IoT security devices, smart meters, and the like.
[0022] The second wireless link 110 includes a medium, such as a communication channel, through which the repeater apparatus 102 communicates with the one or more IoT devices 108 during predefined communication windows. The second wireless link 110 is configured to handle downstream communications, such as from the repeater apparatus 102 to the one or more IoT devices 108 communications, synchronized with the wake periods of the repeater apparatus 102. Examples of the second wireless link 110 are similar to that of the first wireless link 106.
[0023] Advantageously, the repeater apparatus 102 is configured to provide an intelligent, selective operation that eliminates uplink noise contribution to the base transceiver station during non-communication windows while ensuring reliable communication for the one or more IoT devices 108 during their scheduled transmission windows. By maintaining the repeater apparatus 102 in a SmartWake state with uplink amplification disabled during non-communication periods and activating both downlink and uplink signal amplification only during predefined communication windows, the invention significantly reduces the RF noise footprint compared to conventional continuously operating repeaters, thereby improving overall network performance, enabling scalable deployment in dense IoT environments, reducing power consumption through efficient sleep-wake cycles, and providing cost-effective signal coverage specifically optimized for intermittently communicating devices such as smart meters and IoT sensors that typically transmit data only once per hour or once per day.
[0024] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a repeater apparatus with wake control functionality, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is described in conjunction with elements from FIG. 1. With reference to FIG. 2, there is shown a circuit diagram 200 of the repeater apparatus 102. The repeater apparatus 102 comprises a donor antenna 202 configured to receive Radio Frequency (RF) signals from the BTS 104 (of FIG. 1), a microcontroller 204 configured to implement wake control operations, an RF transceiver 208 in the downlink path and an RF transceiver 212 in the uplink path, a service antenna 222 configured to communicate with the one or more IoT devices 108 (of FIG. 1). The repeater apparatus 102 further comprises a downlink processing circuit comprising a low noise amplifier 212, a digital signal processing module 214, a power amplifier 218, an uplink processing circuit comprising an uplink amplifier 216, a timing control module 206, and an ALC circuitry 220.
[0025] The repeater apparatus 102 of the present disclosure represents a significant technological advancement over conventional continuously operating repeaters through several key innovations that address critical limitations in IoT and smart meter deployments. Unlike traditional repeaters that operate continuously and contribute persistent uplink noise to cellular networks, the present invention introduces intelligent sleep-wake control that eliminates RF emissions during non-communication periods, reducing network noise floor as compared to conventional systems. While existing solutions rely on complex continuous monitoring and feedback systems that increase cost and complexity, the present disclosure achieves superior noise performance through simple time-based scheduling aligned with predictable IoT communication patterns. Furthermore, conventional repeaters lack the ability to dynamically adjust operational parameters for different IoT applications, whereas the present invention incorporates configurable bandwidth settings, remote configuration capabilities, and adaptive gain control specifically optimized for low-duty-cycle devices. The multi-band processing capabilities and advanced DSP algorithms of the present disclosure enable simultaneous support for diverse IoT protocols and frequency bands, which is not achievable with traditional single-band repeaters. Most significantly, the intelligent synchronization with IoT device transmission schedules eliminates the energy waste and interference issues inherent in continuously operating systems, enabling scalable deployment in dense IoT environments where conventional repeaters would cause unacceptable network degradation with reduced power consumption.
[0026] The donor antenna 202 may include suitable logic, circuitry, and/or interfaces that is configured to receive RF signals from the BTS 104 during active communication windows when the repeater apparatus 102 is awakened by the microcontroller 204. Examples of the donor antenna 202 may include, but are not limited to, a Yagi antenna, a Log-Periodic antenna, a dome antenna, a patch antenna, a dipole antenna, a helical antenna, or any antenna suitable for use in the repeater apparatus 102.
[0027] The microcontroller 204 may include suitable logic, circuitry, and/or interfaces that are configured to maintain the repeater apparatus 102 in a SmartWake state with uplink amplification disabled during non-communication periods and activate both downlink and uplink signal amplification during predefined communication windows in a predefined time interval. Examples of the microcontroller 204 may include, but are not limited to, a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), an integrated circuit, a processor, a co-processor, a microprocessor, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) processor, a reduced instruction set (RISC) processor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a state machine, a data processing unit, and other processors or circuits. Moreover, the microcontroller 204 may refer to one or more individual processors, processing devices, a processing unit that is part of a machine. In an implementation, the microcontroller 204 may be used in conjunction with the FPGA to execute wake control operations for managing sleep and active states of the repeater apparatus 102.
[0028] The RF transceiver 208 and another RF transceiver 212 may include suitable logic, circuitry, and/or interfaces that are configured to transmit and receive the RF signals for communication purposes during active periods controlled by the microcontroller 204. Examples of the RF transceiver 212 may include, but are not limited to, a cellular RF transceiver, a Wi-Fi transceiver, an IoT RF transceiver, an RF transceiver for two-way radios, an RF transceiver for broadcast, a software-defined radio (SDR) transceiver, and the like.
[0029] The service antenna 222 may include suitable logic, circuitry, and/or interfaces that are configured to establish communication with the one or more IoT devices 108 during predefined communication windows synchronized with the wake periods of the repeater apparatus 102. Examples of the service antenna 222 may include, but are not limited to, a panel antenna, an omnidirectional antenna, a ceiling dome antenna, a wall-mount antenna, an ultra-wideband antenna, a patch antenna, a directional antenna, or any antenna suitable for use in the repeater apparatus 102.
[0030] The low noise amplifier 212 may be referred to as an electronic amplifier that may be configured to amplify weak downlink signals while introducing minimal additional noise during active communication windows, thereby enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio when the repeater apparatus 102 is awakened for IoT device communication. Examples of the low noise amplifier 212 may include, but are not limited to, a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) amplifier, a field-effect transistor (FET) amplifier, a gallium arsenide (GaAs) amplifier, a silicon germanium (SiGe) amplifier, a CMOS low noise amplifier, and the like. In operation, the low noise amplifier 212 is the first active component in the downlink signal processing chain and is configured to receive RF signals from the BTS 104 through the duplexer and the donor antenna 202 interface. The low noise amplifier 212 provides initial amplification with minimal noise addition before forwarding the amplified signals to the RF transceiver 208 for further processing.
[0031] The power amplifier 218 may include suitable logic, circuitry, and/or interfaces that are configured to further amplify the processed RF signals for a downlink transmission during predefined communication windows when activated by the wake control functionality of the microcontroller 204.
[0032] The uplink amplifier 216 may be referred to as an electronic amplifier that may be configured to amplify weak uplink signals from the one or more IoT devices 108 during active communication windows, thereby enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio for uplink transmission to the BTS 104 when the repeater apparatus 102 is in active state. Examples of the uplink amplifier 216 may include, but are not limited to, a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) amplifier, a field-effect transistor (FET) amplifier, a gallium arsenide (GaAs) amplifier, a silicon germanium (SiGe) amplifier, a CMOS low noise amplifier, and the like.
[0033] The digital signal processing module 214 may include suitable logic, circuitry, and/or interfaces that is configured to perform noise reduction and gain control functions during active communication windows. Examples of the digital signal processing module 214 may include, but are not limited to, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) with signal processing firmware, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) for signal processing, and the like. In an implementation, the digital signal processing module 214 incorporates advanced adaptive filtering algorithms specifically designed for IoT communication patterns, including spectral analysis, interference cancellation, and signal conditioning optimized for low-duty-cycle transmissions. The DSP module implements configurable bandwidth settings that can be dynamically adjusted during communication windows to accommodate different IoT device types and communication protocols, ranging from narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) applications requiring 180 kHz bandwidth to wideband applications requiring up to 20 MHz bandwidth. Additionally, the DSP module includes multi-band processing capabilities that enable simultaneous operation across multiple frequency bands, supporting diverse IoT ecosystems including sub-1 GHz bands for long-range applications and higher frequency bands for high-throughput requirements.
[0034] There is provided the repeater apparatus 102 including the donor antenna 202 configured to receive radio frequency (RF) signals from the base transceiver station (BTS). In an implementation, the donor antenna 202 is typically mounted externally and aligned toward the base transceiver station to maximize signal capture efficiency. Moreover, the donor antenna 202 operates by intercepting weak RF signals, converting the weak RF signals into electrical signals, and forwarding the converted electrical signals through the downlink signal chain for further amplification. As a result, the donor antenna 202 enables the repeater apparatus 102 to establish a reliable input link with the base transceiver station, ensuring that communication signals are consistently available for downstream processing.
[0035] Furthermore, the repeater apparatus 102 includes the microcontroller 204 coupled to a radio frequency (RF) transceiver 208 in a downlink signal path. In the downlink signal path, the microcontroller 204 is coupled to the RF transceiver 208 to monitor and regulate the processing of incoming signals from the base station. The coupling facilitates signal flow control and coordination for subsequent amplification stages. The presence of the microcontroller 204 within the downlink path ensures programmable intelligence in signal handling, thereby enabling time-aware or demand-driven signal amplification in order to provide improved control over signal timing, reduced interference, and energy-efficient operation tailored for IoT ecosystems. Moreover, the microcontroller 204 is configured to maintain the repeater apparatus 102 in a SmartWake state with uplink amplification disabled during non-communication periods and activate both downlink and uplink signal amplification during predefined communication windows in a predefined time interval. In other words, the microcontroller 204 is configured to manage the operational states of the repeater apparatus 102 by maintaining a SmartWake state during idle periods and activating both downlink and uplink amplifiers during scheduled communication windows. Moreover, the SmartWake state involves disabling uplink amplification to eliminate unnecessary RF noise in the mobile network. The microcontroller 204 operates based on a predefined time interval, which is programmable to align with the data transmission frequency of IoT devices. As a result, the repeater apparatus 102 is configured to remain dormant when not required, thus conserving power and reducing uplink interference in order to provide precise control of active periods, which optimizes energy use, prolongs device lifespan, and maintains network integrity in densely deployed environments.
[0036] In accordance with an embodiment, the repeater apparatus 102 includes remote configuration capabilities that enable over-the-air (OTA) updates of communication schedules, gain settings, and operational parameters without requiring physical access to the device. The remote configuration system comprises a secure communication interface integrated with the microcontroller 204 that can receive configuration commands via SMS, cellular data, or dedicated management protocols that allows network operators to dynamically adjust wake intervals, modify gain control algorithms, update bandwidth configurations, and optimize performance parameters across large-scale IoT deployments, thereby enabling centralized management of distributed repeater networks and facilitating rapid response to changing network conditions or IoT device requirements.
[0037] Furthermore, the repeater apparatus 102 includes the service antenna 222 configured to establish communication with one or more IoT devices 108 during the predefined communication windows. In an implementation, the service antenna 222 is positioned downstream in the signal path and is active only during predefined communication windows as controlled by the microcontroller 204. The service antenna 222 transmits the amplified downlink signal to the one or more IoT devices 108. Furthermore, the service antenna 222 is configured to receive uplink signals from the one or more IoT devices 108 forming a local coverage area. Additionally, such selective activation ensures that the repeater apparatus 102 serves only during relevant transmission periods, which optimizes energy efficiency and minimizes channel noise.
[0038] In accordance with an embodiment, the microcontroller 204 is further configured to implement dynamic gain control algorithms that automatically adjust amplification levels based on signal strength variations and environmental conditions during active communication windows. The dynamic gain control system operates independently from traditional automatic gain control (AGC) systems by incorporating predictive algorithms that anticipate signal requirements based on historical IoT device communication patterns. The microcontroller 204 continuously monitors signal quality parameters including signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), received signal strength indicator (RSSI), and bit error rate (BER) to optimize gain settings in real-time, ensuring consistent signal quality across varying propagation conditions while maintaining the sleep-wake operational pattern.
[0039] In accordance with an embodiment, the microcontroller 204 is coupled to the timing control module 206 configured to generate timing signals for controlling the SmartWake state and activation periods. In an implementation, the timing control module 206 is a hardware or firmware unit configured to generate precise timing signals for controlling the transition between sleep and active states in the repeater apparatus 102. The timing control module 206 is coupled to the microcontroller 204 in order to provide an accurate scheduling of signal path activations in alignment with communication requirements. By issuing time-synchronized commands, the timing control module 206 allows the amplifier states to match external device schedules and also ensures deterministic behaviour, minimizes latency, and supports scalable deployment of repeaters across varied IoT infrastructures.
[0040] In accordance with an embodiment, the predefined time interval comprises wake intervals ranging from 10 minutes to 24 hours for establishing communication with the one or more IoT devices 108. In an implementation, the predefined time interval defines the period of time during which the repeater apparatus 102 is active for signal amplification, with wake durations ranging from 10 minutes to 24 hours. In an example, the predefined time interval is 10 minutes. In another example, the predefined time period is 15 minutes. In yet another example, the predefined time period is 12 hours. In another example, the predefined time period is 24 hours. Moreover, such time intervals are set based on the communication behaviour of target of the one or more IoT devices 108. The use of controlled wake periods enables the repeater apparatus 102 to align its operation with device transmission schedules, avoiding redundant activity. The advantage is precise operational alignment with low-duty-cycle devices, reducing energy usage, lowering RF noise, and ensuring communication reliability for time-bound data exchanges.
[0041] In accordance with an embodiment, the SmartWake state includes software-defined timer-based scheduling that enables flexible configuration of wake/sleep cycles with wake intervals ranging from 1 minute to 24 hours. The SmartWake state is used to support remote configuration via SMS, cellular data, or over-the-air (OTA) updates for dynamic adjustment of operational parameters and may optionally integrate with external triggers or cloud-based commands to enable adaptive scheduling based on real-time network conditions. Moreover, the SmartWake state is used to reduce active operation time compared to conventional continuously operating repeaters, thereby extending device lifespan, lowering overall power consumption, and enabling scalable deployment in dense IoT environments where multiple repeaters would otherwise cause unacceptable aggregate uplink noise.
[0042] In accordance with an embodiment, the repeater apparatus 102 includes a downlink processing circuit in the downlink signal path. The downlink processing circuit comprises the low noise amplifier 212 coupled to the RF transceiver 208 and configured to amplify the received RF signals from the BTS 104, the digital signal processing module 214 configured to perform noise reduction and gain control, and the power amplifier 218 configured to amplify the processed RF signals for downlink transmission during the predefined communication windows. Moreover, the downlink processing circuit is a signal enhancement chain located in the downlink path and comprises the low noise amplifier 212, the digital signal processing module 214, and the power amplifier 218. The low noise amplifier 212 increases the strength of the received RF signal from the base station while minimizing added noise. The digital signal processing module 214 performs advanced functions including noise filtering and adaptive gain control. The power amplifier 218 further amplifies the processed signal for robust transmission via the service antenna 222. This layered approach ensures high-quality signal amplification during the active windows, delivering strong and clean signals to IoT endpoints with optimized signal clarity, reduced interference, and improved communication reliability.
[0043] In accordance with an embodiment, the repeater apparatus 102 includes an uplink signal amplification path configured to amplify uplink signals during the predefined communication windows, wherein the uplink signal amplification path comprises: the uplink amplifier 216 configured to amplify RF signals received from the one or more IoT devices 108 via the service antenna 222 during the predefined communication windows. In other words, the uplink signal amplification path is a dedicated circuitry within the repeater apparatus 102 used for amplifying RF signals received from IoT devices 108, which includes the uplink amplifier 216 in order to enhance the strength of the signals captured by the service antenna 222 during predefined communication windows. As a result, such a path is activated only during scheduled intervals, ensuring that uplink amplification is purpose-driven and suppresses unnecessary uplink transmissions, thus reducing cumulative network noise and avoiding signal collisions in shared-spectrum environments with enhanced uplink performance during needed periods and minimising RF interference during idle periods.
[0044] In accordance with an embodiment, the repeater apparatus 102 includes the timing control module 206 configured to synchronize activation of the uplink amplifier 216 and downlink processing circuit during the predefined communication windows. The timing control module 206 is configured to generate synchronization signals that activate both the uplink amplifier 216 and downlink processing circuit simultaneously during predefined communication windows. This synchronized activation ensures that the repeater amplifies incoming and outgoing signals only during device communication periods. Coordinated control of amplification paths prevents out-of-phase signal handling and optimizes full-duplex efficiency. The technical benefit is cohesive operation across signal channels, improving timing accuracy, reducing system overhead, and ensuring RF compliance in time-sensitive communication environments.
[0045] In accordance with an embodiment, the microcontroller 204 is configured to generate control signals for enabling and disabling the uplink amplification based on a predetermined time period. The microcontroller 204 is a programmable control unit embedded in the repeater apparatus 102, responsible for system logic and time-based coordination. The control signals are electronic commands generated by the microcontroller 204 to initiate or halt specific operations, in such cases, the activation or deactivation of the uplink signal amplification circuit. These control signals are generated according to a predetermined time period that reflects scheduled communication intervals, which are configured to match the expected transmission behaviour of connected IoT devices 108. By managing the uplink amplification through scheduled control signals, the microcontroller 204 ensures that RF transmission occurs only when necessary. As a result, the repeater apparatus 102 is configured to suppress unnecessary uplink signal generation, thereby reducing energy consumption, minimizing RF noise introduced into the cellular network, and enabling synchronized operation aligned with low-duty-cycle communication patterns of smart meters and similar devices.
[0046] In accordance with an embodiment, the repeater apparatus 102 includes the ALC circuitry 220 configured to prevent signal overload during the predefined communication windows through advanced signal monitoring and adaptive power management. The ALC circuitry 220 incorporates real-time signal analysis capabilities that detect excessive signal strength, harmonic distortion, and intermodulation products, automatically adjusting power amplifier drive levels to maintain optimal signal quality. The ALC system operates in conjunction with the dynamic gain control algorithms to provide comprehensive signal level management, featuring fast response times suitable for burst IoT transmissions, temperature compensation for outdoor deployments, and frequency-dependent gain adjustments to accommodate multi-band operation. Additionally, the ALC circuitry 220 includes protection mechanisms against signal overdrive, thermal overload, and VSWR mismatch conditions, ensuring reliable operation in harsh environmental conditions typical of IoT deployment scenarios.
[0047] In accordance with an embodiment, the microcontroller 204 is configured to synchronize the predefined communication windows with transmission schedules of the one or more IoT devices 108. In an implementation, the microcontroller 204 is configured to synchronize the predefined communication windows with the transmission schedules of the connected IoT devices 108. Moreover, such synchronization ensures that the repeater is active precisely when the devices transmit or expect to receive data. Accurate alignment with device communication cycles prevents missed data packets, reduces energy wastage, eliminates unnecessary signal amplification and provides an optimal timing alignment, improved end-to-end communication success rates, and efficient power utilization in smart meter and IoT deployments.
[0048] In accordance with an embodiment, the repeater apparatus 102 includes the ALC circuitry 220 configured to prevent signal overload during the predefined communication windows. In an implementation, the ALC circuitry 220 is an internal signal regulation component configured to detect and limit excessive signal strength during active communication windows. It dynamically adjusts amplification levels to prevent overdrive or saturation in the signal path, thereby preserving signal integrity and protecting downstream circuitry. As a result, the ALC circuitry 220 is configured to enhance reliability by accommodating variable signal conditions without introducing distortion or noise with an improved signal quality, protection of hardware components, and compliance with RF emission standards during operation.
[0049] In accordance with an embodiment, the signal flow through the repeater apparatus 102 follows a coordinated path during active communication windows. Downlink signals received from the BTS 104 via the donor antenna 202 pass through the duplexer to the low noise amplifier 212 for initial amplification, then to the RF transceiver 208 for primary processing, followed by the microcontroller 204 for wake control coordination, then to the RF transceiver 208 for final processing, subsequently to the power amplifier 218 for power amplification, through the duplexer, and finally transmitted to the IoT devices 108 via the service antenna 222. Conversely, uplink signals from the IoT devices 108 are received via the service antenna 222, pass through the duplexer to the uplink amplifier 216 for amplification, and finally transmitted to the BTS 104 via the duplexer and the donor antenna 202.
[0050] FIG. 3 is a detailed circuit diagram of a repeater apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is described in conjunction with elements from FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. With reference to FIG. 3, there is shown a circuit diagram 300 of the repeater apparatus 102.
[0051] In an implementation, the donor antenna 202 receives downlink signals from the base station and feeds these signals through a first duplexer 302, which separates the downlink and uplink signal paths to prevent interference. The downlink signals are then routed to the downlink Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) 304, which amplifies the received weak downlink signals while minimizing noise introduction to preserve signal quality. Following amplification, the downlink signal is fed into the RF Transceiver 306, which serves as the primary signal processing unit responsible for frequency conversion, filtering, and digital signal conditioning under the intelligent control of the microcontroller 204.
[0052] The microcontroller 204 is configured to manage the operational state of both uplink and downlink amplification paths thereby ensuring that only consumes power and generates RF signals during scheduled transmission periods. The processed downlink signal from the RF transceiver 306 is then directed to a downlink Power Amplifier (PA) 308, which boosts the signal to the required transmission power level for effective coverage. The amplified downlink signal then passes through the second duplexer 310, which again ensures proper signal path separation, before being transmitted via the service antenna 222 to the intended user equipment. For the uplink path, the signal flow reverses direction following the arrows in the diagram. Uplink signals from user devices are received by the service antenna 222 and fed through the second duplexer 310 to separate them from the downlink path. These uplink signals are then routed to an uplink Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) 312, which amplifies the typically weak signals transmitted by mobile devices or IoT sensors. The amplified uplink signal is processed by a second RF Transceiver 314, which performs similar signal conditioning functions as the downlink transceiver, including frequency conversion and filtering, all under the supervision of the microcontroller 204 that ensures the uplink path is only active during the scheduled communication windows. The processed uplink signal is then fed to an uplink Power Amplifier (PA) 316, which amplifies the signal to sufficient power levels for transmission back to the base station. Finally, the amplified uplink signal passes through the first duplexer 302 and is transmitted via the donor antenna 202 back to the base station, completing the bidirectional signal amplification cycle while maintaining the intelligent, scheduled operation that minimizes uplink noise injection into the network during inactive periods.
[0053] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a method of operating a repeater apparatus for intermittent device communication without uplink noise contribution to a BTS, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is described in conjunction with elements from FIGs. 1 and 2. With reference to FIG. 4, there is shown a method 400 of operating the repeater apparatus 102 for intermittent device communication without uplink noise contribution to the BTS 104. The method 400 includes steps 402 to 406. The step 402 includes maintaining, via microcontroller, the repeater apparatus in SmartWake state with uplink amplification disabled during non-communication periods. The step 404 includes activating, during predefined communication windows in the predefined cycle, both downlink and uplink signal amplification paths. The step 406 includes establishing communication, via the service antenna 222, with one or more IoT devices 108 during predefined communication windows while disabling uplink amplification during the SmartWake state to minimize uplink noise contribution to the base transceiver station, BTS. The microcontroller 204 of the repeater apparatus 102 is configured to execute the method 400.
[0054] There is provided the method 400 of operating the repeater apparatus 102 for intermittent device communication without uplink noise contribution to the BTS 104. The method 400 is employed to ensure efficient utilization of network resources while maintaining reliable communication between the one or more IoT devices 108 and the BTS 104 during scheduled communication windows. The combination of intelligent sleep-wake control and selective signal amplification results in enhanced energy efficiency and reliable operation under varying network conditions while eliminating uplink noise during non-communication windows, thereby minimizing interference to the mobile network and enabling scalable deployment for IoT applications.
[0055] At step 402, the method 400 includes maintaining, via a microcontroller, the repeater apparatus in a SmartWake state with uplink amplification disabled during non-communication periods. At step 404, the method 400 includes activating, during predefined communication windows in a predefined cycle, both downlink and uplink signal amplification paths. At step 406, the method 400 includes establishing communication, via the service antenna 222, with one or more IoT devices during the predefined communication windows while disabling uplink amplification during the SmartWake state to minimize uplink noise contribution to a base transceiver station, BTS.
[0056] Advantageously, the method 400 is used to provide an intelligent, selective operation that eliminates uplink noise contribution to the base transceiver station during non-communication windows while ensuring reliable communication for the one or more IoT devices 108 during their scheduled transmission windows. By maintaining the repeater apparatus 102 in a SmartWake state with uplink amplification disabled during non-communication periods and activating both downlink and uplink signal amplification only during predefined communication windows, the invention significantly reduces the RF noise footprint compared to conventional continuously operating repeaters, thereby improving overall network performance, enabling scalable deployment in dense IoT environments, reducing power consumption through efficient sleep-wake cycles, and providing cost-effective signal coverage specifically optimized for intermittently communicating devices such as smart meters and IoT sensors that typically transmit data only once per hour or once per day.
[0057] The steps 402 to 406 are only illustrative, and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more steps are added, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claims herein.
[0058] Modifications to embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as "including", "comprising", "incorporating", "have", "is" used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural. The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance or illustration". Any embodiment described as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments and/or to exclude the incorporation of features from other embodiments. The word "optionally" is used herein to mean "is provided in some embodiments and not provided in other embodiments". It is appreciated that certain features of the present disclosure, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the present disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosure.
, Claims:CLAIMS
We Claim:
1. A repeater apparatus (102) comprising:
a donor antenna (202) configured to receive radio frequency, RF signals from a base transceiver station, BTS (104);
a microcontroller (204) coupled to a radio frequency, RF transceiver (208) in a downlink signal path, wherein the microcontroller (204) is configured to maintain the repeater apparatus (102) in a SmartWake state with uplink amplification disabled during non-communication periods and activate both downlink and uplink signal amplification during predefined communication windows in a predefined time interval; and
a service antenna (222) configured to establish communication with one or more IoT devices (108) during the predefined communication windows.
2. The repeater apparatus (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microcontroller (204) is coupled to a timing control module (206) configured to generate timing signals for controlling the SmartWake state and activation periods.
3. The repeater apparatus (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predefined time interval comprises wake intervals ranging from 10 minutes to 24 hours for establishing communication with the one or more IoT devices (108).
4. The repeater apparatus (102) of claim 1, comprising:
a downlink processing circuit (210) in the downlink signal path, wherein the downlink processing circuit comprises:
a low noise amplifier (212) coupled to the RF transceiver (208) and configured to amplify the received RF signals from the BTS (104);
a digital signal processing module (214) configured to perform noise reduction and gain control; and
a power amplifyer (218) configured to amplify the processed RF signals for downlink transmission during the predefined communication windows.
5. The repeater apparatus (102) of claim 1, comprising:
an uplink signal amplification path configured to amplify uplink signals during the predefined communication windows, wherein the uplink signal amplification path comprises:
an uplink amplifier (216) configured to amplify RF signals received from the one or more IoT devices (108) via the service antenna (222) during the predefined communication windows.
6. The repeater apparatus (102) of claim 5, comprising a timing control module (206) configured to synchronize activation of the uplink amplifier (216) and downlink processing circuit (210) during the predefined communication windows.
7. The repeater apparatus (102), wherein the microcontroller (204) is configured to generate control signals for enabling and disabling the uplink amplification based on predetermined time period.
8. The repeater apparatus (102) of claim 1, wherein the microcontroller (204) is configured to synchronize the predefined communication windows with transmission schedules of the one or more IoT devices (108).
9. The repeater apparatus (102) of claim 1, further comprising automatic level control (ALC) circuitry (220) configured to prevent signal overload during the predefined communication windows.
10. A method (400) of operating a repeater apparatus (102) for controlling uplink noise, the method (400) comprising:
maintaining, via a microcontroller (204), the repeater apparatus (102) in a SmartWake state with uplink amplification disabled during non-communication periods;
activating, during predefined communication windows in a predefined time interval, both downlink and uplink signal amplification; and
establishing communication, via a service antenna (222), with one or more IoT devices (108) during the predefined communication windows.