Reconfigurable RF receiver using compact distributed switch matrix for array coils

Abstract

Magnetic resonance (MR) signals captured by RF array coils should be delivered to analogue-to-digital converter (ADC) channels through an independent receiver (Rx) circuitry for precise MRI process. Since different types of RF coils should be utilised by a fixed port configuration on a patient table with a limited number of ADC channels, a highly flexible Rx front-end design is necessary. In this Letter, a compact distributed switch matrix structure for multi-channel RF coil Rx is proposed for supporting different types of array coils with small circuit size and sufficient reconfigurability. The proposed structure is configured by a multiple number of unit matrix cells consisting of a single double pole double throw and two single pole double throw RF switches to control the pathways of received MR signals. The proposed structure was implemented and verified at 9.4-Tesla (9.4 T) MR frequency (400 MHz) by comparing different RF path losses.