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MAGNETOM C!
MR

Function Description
System

RF System

10019418

© Siemens 2005
The reproduction, transmission or use
of this document or its contents is not
permitted without express written
authority. Offenders will be liable for
damages. All rights, including rights
created by patent grant or registration
of a utility model or design, are
reserved.

Print No.: M4-030.850.14.02.02 English

Replaces: M4-030.850.14.01.02 Doc. Gen. Date: 06.09
2 Revision / Disclaimer
1Revision / Disclaimer

Document revision level

The document corresponds to the version/revision level effective at the time of system
delivery. Revisions to hardcopy documentation are not automatically distributed.
Please contact your local Siemens office to order current revision levels.

Disclaimer
The installation and service of equipment described herein is to be performed by qualified
personnel who are employed by Siemens or one of its affiliates or who are otherwise autho-
rized by Siemens or one of its affiliates to provide such services.
Assemblers and other persons who are not employed by or otherwise directly affiliated with
or authorized by Siemens or one of its affiliates are directed to contact one of the local
offices of Siemens or one of its affiliates before attempting installation or service proce-
dures.

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Table of Contents 3
0Table of Contents

1 _______ RF-System _____________________________________________________ 4

Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
RF-Signal Unit (RFSU) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
RF-Power Amplifier (RFPA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
RF-Application System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
RF-Cabin Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Coil System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
RF-Signal Unit (RFSU) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
TX-Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
RX-Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
RF-Power Amplifier (RFPA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
RFPA-Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
RF-Application System (RFAS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
TX-Path . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
RX-Path. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
RF-Cabin Interface (RFCI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
RFCI-Subunits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
RFCI-Power-Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Voltage Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

2 _______ Changes ______________________________________________________ 63

Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Part ‘RF System’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Version 02 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

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4 RF-System
1-
1RF-System

This chapter serves as a general introduction to the hardware components and configura-
tion of the RF-System of the new open system MAGNETOM C!

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RF-System 5

Introduction 1.1

Overview 0

Task
The RF-System has the overall task of generating, amplifying and transmitting the excita-
tion pulse, and the reception and processing of the received MR-signal.

Fig. 1: RF-Components in ECA

Components
The RF-System hardware components (Fig. 3 / p. 7) can be allocated into 5 functional
blocks:
• RF-Signal Unit (RFSU)
- Signal Generator
- Receiver
• RF-Power Amplifier (RFPA)
• RF-Application System (RFAS)
• RF-Coil System

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6 RF-System

• RF-Cabin Interface (RFCI) and power supply (RFCI-PS)

The RFSU, RFPA, RFCI and the RFCI-PS are integrated into the cabinet (ECA), the rest
of the RF-System and the components of the Patient Handling System are inside the
RF-shielded room.

Fig. 2: RF-Components on the Magnet

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RF-System 7
RF-System Block Diagram
Fig. 3:
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RF-Signal Unit (RFSU) 0

Transmitter
Task
The signal generator produces the RF-excitation pulses. The RF-pulse definition, that is the
amplitude and timing characteristics the pulse is to take on, depends on the sequence
being used (number of slices, slice thickness and slice position) and the size of the patient
(the larger the patient, the greater the RF-power required to achieve a specific flip-angle).
Pulse definition
The RF-pulse modulation is performed by a DSP of the GCTX in the MMC. The TX_Module
only converts the digitally modulated RF-pulses from the GCTX and then mixes the result
up to the required system frequency.
The transmitter of the new design can only be used for 0.35T (14.6MHz), but the receiver
are broadband and can be used for 0.35T (14.6MHz), 1.0T (40,45MHz) and 1.5T
(63,6MHz) systems.
Outputs
The modulator (Fig. 4 / p. 9) output is switched to one of three output paths, which are:

SSB1 Main output to the RFPA. Used for imaging and RF-loop test involving
the RFPA;
SSB2 not used;
TTX Tuning power to COSIMUX. Used to tune receiving coils and run
RF-loop tests involving the receiving coil path;
LOOP1 RF-test loop to the Loop-input of receive module 1;
LOOP2 RF-test loop to the Loop-input of receive module 2 (optional);
LOOP3/4 not used.

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RF-System 9
RFSU Transmitter
Fig. 4:
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10 RF-System

Receiver
Task
The MR-signal is a collection of individual frequencies whose bandwidth is determined by
the readout gradient. The amplitudes of each of the frequencies within this bandwidth is
determined by the number of protons at the spatial position assigned to each frequency
according to the field slope (mT/m) of the readout gradient.
Hardware
The receiver module (Fig. 5 / p. 12) consists of two identical RF-receiver channels
(receiver A and receiver B). It is possible to add a second receive module (optional) which
increases the number of RF-receiver channels to four.
Inputs of Standard Receiver Module
Receiver A:

MRSIG1 Main RF-input for the received MR-signal from COSIMUX X11. Used
for imaging and loop tests;
LOOP RF-test loop input from the LOOP1 output of transmit module;
PF RF-test loop input from the directional coupler of RFPA (power for-
ward);
DC+, DC- not used.

Receiver B:

MRSIG2 Main RF-input for the received MR-signal from COSIMUX X8. Used
for imaging and loop tests;
PR RF-test loop input from the directional coupler of RFPA (power
reflected);
CV not used.

Inputs of 2nd Receiver Module (optional)

Receiver A:

MRSIG1 Main RF-input for the received MR-signal from COSIMUX X12. Used
for imaging and loop tests;
LOOP RF-test loop input from the LOOP2 output of transmit module;
PF not used;
DC+, DC- not used.

Receiver B:

MRSIG2 Main RF-input for the received MR-signal from COSIMUX X13. Used
for imaging and loop tests;

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RF-System 11

PR not used;
CV not used.

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12 RF-System
RFSU Receiver
Fig. 5:
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RF-System 13

RF-Power Amplifier (RFPA) 0

While the RF-pulse from the signal generator output contains the essential frequency com-
ponents for slice excitation, the amplitude is too small for direct transmission. It requires
adequate amplification to reach the power levels required to achieve the desired flip-angle.
The level of power depends on several factors: size of patient, size of the transmit antenna
and its position with respect to the patient (the closer the antenna is to the patient, the
greater the power transfer efficiency), selected flip angle and pulse duration.
Amplification
To achieve the required power level of up to 2.5 kW PEP, an amplifier with a high amplifi-
cation factor is needed. The gain of the RF-amplifier is typically 63 dB. The maximum out-
put is 63 dBm. The actual used range is calibrated by the RF-characteristic curve.
Control
Additional control electronics are designed into the amplifier which controls the
power-up/down sequence and monitors the actual state of the amplifier.

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RFPA
Fig. 6:
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RF-System 15

RF-Application System 0

Receive Path
The RFAS was designed as a part of the front-end electronics for the MAGNETOM OPEN
viva RF-system. It is responsible for processing the received MR-signal. In such a system,
where different antenna types are employed, the RFAS has to provide several functional
components to support the various coil requirements.
Amplification
The received MR-signal is extremely small - in the order of 10-9 V to 10-3 V (nV to mV).
Because the receiving coil is located some distance away from the receiver circuits, it has
to be amplified before being sent on its (relatively) long journey to the receiver. The method
and type of amplification will play a very decisive role in the overall signal-to-noise quality
of the receive system. Therefore, the pre-amplifiers are located as closely as possible to
the receiving coils. The first stage of the pre-amplifier for the receiving coils is integrated in
the plug connected to the coil connector (LOCA). This, combined with a well designed
pre-amplifier (noise figure is specified at 0.35dB!), results in a high signal-to-noise (S/N)
ratio.
RF-Trap
The CODIBOX contains to RF-traps for the two coil cables. These traps stop any RF-signal
riding on the RF-shield that was induced during transmitting.
Signal Combination
The received signals are amplified again (2nd pre-amplifier stage) and combined (if neces-
sary) in the COSIMUX.

Transmit Path
Circular Polarization
The transmit signal coming from the RFPA via one coaxial cable is split up in the
Body-Tune-Box (BTB) into four RF-signals. The transmit coil is divided into two halves (top
and bottom) and is circularly polarized. Hence, the BTB is a power and phase splitter.
TX-Coil Service Tuning
During the tune-up of the system, the impedance matching and tuning of the TX-coil is per-
formed manually by variable capacitors in the BTB.

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RFAS
Fig. 7:
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RF-System 17

RF-Cabin Interface 0

The RFCI is a micro-controller based system which contains several hardware sections:
• CAN-Interface
• Communication adapter for RFPA and TCU
• Varicap-voltages for tuning of RX-coils
• Voltage monitoring
• Coil code detection
• TX-coil de-tuning
• RX-coil de-tuning
• RFCI-power supply
Communication Adapter
The RFPA has no CAN-interface. Therefore, a communication module links the RFPA to
the CAN-bus. Another module realizes an RS485-interface for communication with the
TCU.
Tuning
Tuning is a process whereby an RF-antenna is “adjusted“ so that its impedance is matched
to the transmitting and receiving paths to assure optimal transfer of transmit and receive
signal power. This involves tuning the imaging coils (antennas) to the RF-system's line
impedance. Antenna tuning is necessary because the antenna loading conditions, and
therefore its impedance, is patient-dependent. Each time a new patient is placed into the
antenna, or if the existing patient is moved, the antenna must be re-tuned. The larger the
patient, the greater the coupling between antenna halves resulting in a larger change in the
load impedance of the antenna. Tuning is accomplished through the use of an impedance
matching circuit which consists of variable capacitors.
Dynamic tune/de-tune
The second task is to generate the tune and de-tune signals for the transmit and receive
coils. During transmission the receiving coil must be de-tuned and when receiving the
receiving coil is tuned and the transmit coil de-tuned.

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RFCI
Fig. 8:
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RF-System 19

Coil System 0

The magnetic component of the transmitted signal is what is required for the MR-imaging.
There are several antenna systems available, each with its own characteristics.

Transmit coil
The transmit coil of the MAGNETOM C! is a circularly polarized antenna system that con-
sists of four resonator sections and corresponding impedance matching networks in the
Body Tune Box (BTB).The BTB has variable static tuning elements (capacitors) which allow
you to tune the coil to a wide range of patients. Additional control electronics for the transmit
coil are needed for dynamic de-tuning control.Dynamic de tuning is required because the
transmit coil is used in conjunction with the receiving coils.

Receive coils
Receiving coils are specialized imaging coils which have been designed to be used for
imaging specific body areas. The MAGNETOM C! 0.35T offers the following coils.

Fig. 9: Body Array Coil M and L

The Body Array Coil large is used for the tune-up and quality assurance measurement.

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20 RF-System

Fig. 11: Extremity Coil L and S

Fig. 10: Head/Neck Array Coil

In order to prevent the coils from being damaged, receive coils are fixed mini-switches (one
mini-switch receive channel each). When the coil plugs are pulled out, the mini-switch is
switched off and the detune circuit reacts.The receive coils are in detune states.

Fig. 12: The mini-switch in the coil

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RF-Signal Unit (RFSU) 1.2

Overview 0

The RF-Signal Unit consists of just two components:

• TX-Module
• RX-Module
Both modules are produced by Siemens Albis, a Swiss company specializing in telecom-
munications hardware. One can see in the picture to the right that each module is com-
prised of two cassettes which are assembled to form one plug-in unit.
The TX_Module consists of a synthesizer and a modulator.
The RX_Module consists of two identical receivers.
These components are Field Replaceable Units. They require no maintenance and no
adjustments. Testing of these units is performed through the Service Software (SeSo) plat-
form.

Fig. 13: RX/TX-Modules

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TX-Module 0

Overview
The TX_Module consists of a modulator cassette and a synthesizer cassette assembled
together into a single module.
The synthesizer generates the carrier signals for the mixers in the modulator and receivers
as well as synchronization clocks required by the DSPs of the MC4C40 and RX4.
The modulator, incorrectly called this way, is responsible for D/A conversion of the digital
SSB RF-pulses from the GCTX and mixing the results up to the required system frequency
of 14.6 MHz. Modulation is performed digitally by a DSP on the GCTX.

Synthesizer
The synthesizer produces stable clocks used by the DSPs performing the modulation of
RF-excitation pulses and demodulation of received MR-signals as well as providing clock
signals used by other DSPs and control circuitry responsible for sequence control and gra-
dient signal generation.
Control
Its Variable Frequency Oscillator output frequency and phase are selected via the MMC
over the CAN unit in the modulator.
Testing
Testing of the synthesizer is performed through the service software platform. The test is
conducted using a phantom and a spin-echo sequence. The frequency and phase are var-
ied during excitation and the received MR signals are evaluated accordingly. Please be
aware that this test is sensitive to any system instabilities.
System Clock Generator
The various clocks used by the RFSU and MMC components are derived from a central 10
MHz reference clock. The reference frequency of 10 MHz is multiplied up to 80 MHz from
which 40 MHz, 20 MHz and 10 MHz clocks are produced by a counter circuit.
These clocks provide the overall synchronization of the data measurement system. The
DSP clocks are used to synchronize the digital RF-modulation and demodulation by the
GCTX and RX4 boards respectively and the generation of the gradient pulses. They are
also used to synchronize data transfer in general.
LEDs
The software-selected center frequency of 63.6, 40.45, 14.6 MHz will be indicated by a
front panel LED.
Synthesizer Outputs
The output level for RXLO1_1:4 and RXLO2_1:4 is typically +7 dBm (500 mV). The
10MHz_REC1:4 signals are routed to the RX_Module slots over the backplane. The TXLO
signals are passed to the modulator internally over coax connections located on the front.

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Fig. 14: TX-Module Overview
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Modulator
Modulation of the SSB-pulse is performed digitally by a DSP of the GCTX. The digital data
of the SSB-pulse is then converted by the Modulator to an analog signal and mixed up to
the system frequency of about 14.6 MHZ.
Control
The control of the modulator output switches, attenuators and enabling is exercised by the
GCTX.
Testing
The data path between the GCTX and TX-Module can be tested via software. With the
Test_En and Test_Rd signals the GCTX can write and then read back a data pattern into
the Rd/Wr Buffer over the TX_IF bus (see (Fig. 15 / p. 25)) thus verifying the TX-Module
input buffer and the complete data path to the GCTX.
The Output Select and Gain control buffers can also be read back by the GCTX for testing
purposes (see (Fig. 16 / p. 25)).
Performance testing (stability and linearity) of the TX-Module is performed by the service
software in conjunction with the RX-Module.
Modulator Specifications
Tab. 1 Modulator Sepcifications

0.35 T 1.0 T 1.5T

Center Frequency 14.6 MHz 40.45 MHz 63.6 MHz
Bandwidth ±125 kHz (≤0.3 dB) ±125 kHz (≤0.1 dB) ±125 kHz (≤0.1 dB)

Modulator Input
The TX DSP on the MC4C40 computes the center frequency, bandwidth, and pulse shape
from the sequence parameters and produces the digital amplitudes which are then digitally
SSB modulated on the GCTX module. The final pulse amplitudes, TX_IF 1:16, are clocked
into the TX-Module over the backplane, synchronized to a 20 MHz clock. Additionally, the
dynamic control signal RFON from the TICO is required for enabling the DAC.

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Fig. 15: Modulator Input Stage

Attenuators
The RFPA gain is fixed to dB at 14.6 MHz. The RF transmit pulse amplitudes are varied by
the digital amplitudes (transmit scale factor) and the output attenuators of the modulator.
The DAC has 16 bits of resolution providing a large dynamic range (i.e. a wide amplitude
range) eliminating the need for variable attenuators as known in previous designs. Instead,
two series attenuators with values of 6 dB and 12 dB form four power levels in which the
16 bit DAC resolution can be scaled to achieve any output amplitude. The range is selected
by the gain 0:1 control signals from the GCTX and displayed with GAIN 0:1 LEDs on the
front panel.
The exact attenuator values are factory-measured at all capable frequencies and stored in
an on-board calibration PROM which will be read out by the MMC for correcting the RF
transmit pulse amplitudes.

Fig. 16: Output Attenuators

LEDs

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Tab. 2 LEDs

Range LED (Gain) Attenuator max. output level

1 (12) 0 (6)
3 off off 0 dB +3 dBm
2 off on 6 dB –3 dBm
1 on off 12 dB –9 dBm
0 on on 18 dB –15 dBm

Modulator Outputs
The modulator has seven outputs placed in two groups - imaging/tuning and test - for
increased isolation. Output selection is made via OutS 0:2. The dynamic control signal
RFON is required for output. Unused outputs are terminated internally with 50Ω.

Fig. 17: Modulator Output Switches

RX-Module 0

Overview
The RX-Module consists of two identical receiver cassettes. Each cassette provides a high
resolution RF-receive channel. The RX-Module is in essence, as the TX-Module, an analog
to digital converter. The receiver reduces the MR-signal frequency to about 1 MHz via two
mixer stages, and digitizes the resultant 1 MHz IF-frequency at a fixed sampling rate of 10
MHz. Via the increased sampling rate together with a digital decimation filter the effective
ADC resolution is increased to between 21-24 bits of resolution, depending on the pixel

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RF-System 27

bandwidth. This translates into a dynamic range of about 130 dB, an increase of 40 dB over
older systems. It is this effective increase in dynamic range that eliminates the need for a
receiver adjustment.
The receivers also provide inputs for various other sources e.g., RFPA output forward and
reflected waves, service loop inputs for testing purposes.
The basic system configuration will contain one RX-Module providing two receivers sup-
porting up to four local coil elements. An additional RX-Module expands the receive capa-
bility by allowing four additional coil elements to actively receive.
The selection of local coil elements is achieved through the sequence change platform.
Control
Input switch control and enabling signals as well as signals for assuming a test condition
are supplied by the RX4. The 10 MHz sampling triggers are produced by the synthesizer.
Testing
Built-in test loops covering all of the RF-system hardware components have been incorpo-
rated into the RF-system to facilitate testing and troubleshooting. Test sequences espe-
cially designed to test functionality and performance - linearity and stability - can be
configured and started from the service software platform. Results are displayed graphi-
cally and alpha-numerically with tolerances and performance data being given.
Receiver Inputs
Tab. 3 Receiver inputs

Inputs used for

MRSIG MR-signal from receive coils.
PF, PR Loop test of RFPA and measurement of its characteristic.
Loop Loop tests of RFSU-components.
DC/CV (not used with MAGNETOM C! 0.35T)

RX1_RFACT
An “RF-present“ detector has been incorporated into receiver A of the RX-Module. If RF is
present, the RX1_RFACT signal will be active. It is used to verify the presence or absence
of RF at the output of the RFPA.
A simple check is made:
• If the RFON signal is active (transmitting), the RX1_RFACT signal also should be
active.
• If the RFON signal is NOT active (we should not be transmitting), and the RX1_RFACT
is active (but we are transmitting). The software will take the appropriate action of dis-
abling the RFPA.
LEDs
Indicate the selected RF-input.

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Fig. 18: RX-Module Overview
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Mixer Stage
The mixer stages of the receiver reduce the MR-signal down to a frequency of around
1MHz in preparation for being digitized by the ADC.
Digitizer
The 1 MHz IF-signal is digitized at a constant rate of 10 MHz.

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RF-Power Amplifier (RFPA) 1.3

Introduction 0

It is a solid state RF-amplifier with a specified frequency range of 14.60 MHz ± 200 kHz.
The gain variation over frequency is max. 0.1 dB within 150 kHz of the center frequency.
Its output power is rated to max.2.5kW peak power into 50 Ω load. The gain of the amplifier
is 63 dB ± 3 dB.

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RF-System 31
Fig. 19: RFPA(CORA)
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RFPA-Control 0

Error detection logic

The RFPA has an integrated error detection logic controlling the power-up and shut-down
sequence and activates the indicator LEDs on the front panel. The LEDs indicate the status
of the RFPA and assist in troubleshooting.
Status LEDs
Tab. 4 Status LEDs

Status Led Label Color Function

V600 DC green AC Power supplied to unit.
V701 PA_ON green Remote power on signal from the RFSU present.
V702 READY green Amplifier start-up completed and ready to use.
V722 UNBLK green Lights when a gating pulse is applied to the ampli-
fier.
V711 TS-ERR red Transistor junction temp too high.
V712 HOT-TSINK red Heat sink temperature too high.

NOTE The LEDs V711(junction overtemp.) and V712 (heat sink

overtemp.) light up only as long as the error condition is
present. After cooling down, the respective LED goes off.

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Fig. 20: RFPA-Control

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RF-Application System (RFAS) 1.4

Introduction 0

The RFAS is the front-end electronics to the coils. In such a system where a wide variety
of antenna types are employed, the RFAS has to provide several functional components to
support the various coil requirements.
The RFAS consists of the following components:
• Body Tune Box (BTB);
• Circularly polarized transmit coil;
• Two coil plugs with LOcal Coil Amplifiers (LOCA);
• COil signal DIstribution BOX (CODIBOX);
• COil SIgnal MUltipleXer (COSIMUX).

Fig. 21: RFAS

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TX-Path 0

The RF-signal from the RFPA is sent via the BTB into the circularly polarized TX-coil
(Fig. 23 / p. 38).

Body Tune Box

The Body Tune Box (BTB) provides the phase-shifted RF-signals for the four resonator
components. The TX-coil is a circularly polarized coil. Hence, it consists of two coil systems
which have to be shifted 90 to each other.

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Fig. 22: BTB

Additionally, each of these coil-systems is made of two halves, one in the top pole shoe and
one in the bottom pole shoe. Between these two halves a phase shift of 180 is necessary.
TX-Hybrid
In order to rotate the magnetic field a 90 between the coil-systems and a 180 between the
coil-halves, a TX-hybrid is introduced.
TX-Matching
The matching circuit provides the optimum energy transfer to the resonators while main-
taining the required bandwidth (manual adjustment).
During this adjustment procedure RF-signals are passed from the BTB (X3) via a 30 dB
attenuator (some times called: dummy load) to the COSIMUX (X10) and further to the
receive module.
TX-Dynamic Tune/De-tune
The matching circuit contains the dynamic tune/de-tune electronics (PIN-diode switches)
as well.
Due to the data filter D15 in the filter plate the current supply for the dynamic tune/de-tune
of the TX-coil has to be split up into two signal paths (BC_LC_LOCA_CTRL and
BC_LC_LOCA_EFI) coming from the RFCI (X2/X3). Only pin 14 and 25 of each cable is
used for the PIN-diode current. The current is add together on the WIring Board WIB and
sent to the PIN-diode electronic in the BTB.

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TX-Coil
The TX-coil is a circularly polarized antenna system integrated with the gradient coil. It con-
sists of four resonator components integrated in two circular plates, TX_PLATE_LO and
TX_PLATE_UP.

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Fig. 23: TX-Path
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RX-Path 0

The MR-signal received by the RX coil(s) is sent via the RF-trap in the CODIBOX to the
COil SIgnal MUltipleXer (COSIMUX), in which the signals are combined and amplified to
either one or two MR-signals or just amplified and sent to the RX module (Fig. 26 / p. 41).
One RX module contains two receiver channels.

LOCA
The LOcal Coil Amplifier is a PCB mounted in the coil plug that is connected to the receive
coil. The plug contains two identical amplifiers with a gain of about 31 dB and a coupling
circuit for coil tuning.
Amplifiers
The amplifiers are narrowbanded and tuned to the nominal MR-frequency of 14.6 MHz.
The input impedance is not 50 Ω providing optimum noise matching to the required source
impedance. The amplifiers are supplied by ±12 VDC via the RF-signal cables connecting
them to the COSIMUX (D1 K2137).
Tuning input
An additional input is implemented for coupling an RF-signal (TTX) into the amplifier input
and into the receive coil. The signal connected to this input is used to measure the complex
reflection coefficient of the antenna.

CODIBOX
The COil signal DIstribution BOX is mounted at the front bottom part of the magnet behind
the magnet cover of the lower pole shoe. It consists of two almost identical parts.

Fig. 24: CODIBOX

RF-Trap

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Fig. 25: RF-Trap

The RF-trap provides high attenuation for waves riding on the shield of the RF-cable at
operating frequency. Two RF-traps - parallel resonance circuits - are located in the box one
for each coil cable. The attenuation of the wave trap is adjusted in the factory.

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Fig. 26: RX-Path
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COSIMUX
The COil SIgnal MUltipleXer provides amplification stages and receive path select switches
as well as electronics for the tuning signal distribution. Additionally, the 12 VDC voltage sup-
ply for the LOCAs are regulated on this board.

Fig. 27: COSIMUX

Power combiner
The signals picked-up by a circularly polarized RX-coil are combined in the power combiner
compensating the phase shift that occurred due to the different orientation of the two res-
onators in the RX-coil.
Cross-switch
The cross-switch controlled by the control interface allows to connect any input signal to
any of the four output amplifiers.
Amplifier channels
Four switched gain amplifiers provided for the future operation of 4-channel array coils.
Only two channels are used at the moment.
The gain is selectable and controlled by the control interface:
• High Gain: 23 dB

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• Low Gain: -1.5 dB

Tuning
The tuning signal TTX is distributed via the tune select circuit to the RF-coupler of the active
pre-amplifier (LOCA). This signal is used for the measurement of the complex reflection
coefficient of the connected RX-coil.
Control
The control interface receives external data from the CAN-bus coming from the RFCI in the
cabinet. The CAN-protocol is adapted in the PTC to the communication used in the control
interface of the COSIMUX.
The serial fiber optic link from the RFCI prepares the internal signals required for operating
the signal multiplexers and gain switches.
Power Supply
The ±15 VDC supply for the COSIMUX (X7) is coming from the RFCI-PS X6 via the WIB
(X14). This supply can be checked on the WIB by two green LEDs and measured using the
following test points:

TP13 (+15 V) X401/402 (GND) TP11 (–15 V)

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RF-Cabin Interface (RFCI) 1.5

Before you get confused, the RF-Cabin Interface has nothing to do with the RF-cabin.

Overview 0

The RFCI provides the following functions (Fig. 29 / p. 45):

• CAN-Interface
• Communication adapter for RFPA and TCU
• Varicap voltages for tuning of RX-coils
• Voltage monitoring
• Coil code detection
• TX-coil de-tuning
• RX-coil de-tuning
• RFCI-power supply
The RFCI’s job is to provide the control signals for the dynamic de-tuning by PIN-diodes in
the RX-coils and the BTB and to recognize the coil code. On-board monitoring supervises
all power supplies and detects if a coil change occurs during a sequence.

Fig. 28: RFCI

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Fig. 29: RFCI Overview
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RFCI-Subunits 0

CAN Module
The CAN module acts as the principal controller for the RFCI electronics. The CAN module
employs a CAN-micro controller,i.e., an intelligent CAN controller. The main functions are:
• CAN bus communication;
• RX-coil (local coil) code recognition;
• Error interrupt handling;
• Coil de-tune signal masking.

Fig. 30: CAN-Module

N_INT
Two error interrupts: power_fail and coil_change, cause an immediate stop of the
sequence.
Unit_ID
This CAN module is also used in other components. The Unit_ID is an identifier byte used
to identify the component where the CAN module is plugged in.
LC_Code
The RX-coil code.
Status LED
The CPU activates the FW LED on the service board if the CPU is in firmware mode, the
LW LED when in loadware mode.

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Fig. 31: Status LEDs on the Service Board

CAN Module Interface

The CAN module interface provides hardware-specific interface circuitry for the CAN-mod-
ule which has been designed as a general control unit for use in any sub-system.
Unit_ID
The CAN-module is also used in other components. The Unit_ID is an identifier byte used
to identify the component where the CAN-module is plugged.
N_INT
Two error interrupts, power_fail and coil_change, causes an immediate stop of the
sequence. The Door_Contact does not cause a sequence halt. A message is displayed on
the MRC, a “D“ is displayed in the image label and a flag is set in the image header.
DTC/DFC
The Data-To-Can (DTC) and Data-From-Can (DFC) busses transfer the various status
information and coil masks to/from the CAN-module. LEDs on the Service board show the
status of the data.

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Fig. 32: Status Interface_Data

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Fig. 33: CAN-Module Interface

Coil Code Detection

The coil code module has two functions:
• Coil code detection
• Coil code change recognition

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Fig. 34: Coil Code Connections

Coil Code Detection
A constant voltage source is used as supply to the RX-coil connector. The RX-coil has one
or more resistors connected to the 8-code signal lines. Where a resistor is found, a voltage
is generated which is read and recognized by the CAN module.
Coil Code Change Recognition
During the sequence, the coil code is continuously monitored. If it changes, say when the
patient gets restless or pulls a coil connector, an interrupt to the CAN-module is generated.
This causes a sequence stop.

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Fig. 35: Coil Code Principle

TX-Coil De-tuning
Principle
The dynamic de-tuning of the TX-coil is accomplished with a 1/4 lambda line tied to a
PIN-diode. The diode, when shorted (600 mA), allows the TX-coil to tune and when opened
(30 V) the TX-coil de-tunes.
The dynamic control signal IN_BC is produced by the two dynamic signals Coil_Mask_Sel,
BC_Ctrl and a digital mask from the CAN-module. This allows the CAN-module to freely
program the diode state for tuning or de-tuning according to coil or coil combination. This
concept offers the greatest flexibility and is easily programmable.
The output signal BC_PIN is sent to the BTB. It is doubled (twice 300 mA) due to the data
filter D15 used in the filter plate that cannot handle the whole PIN diode current.

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Fig. 36: Dynamic De-tune Control of TX-Coil

Status LEDs on the Service Board
The output can be measured for troubleshooting purpose on the service board. LEDs are
also provided to indicate the tuning status.

LEDs
IN_BC BC_PIN Coil
U_ON_I_OFF_BC UR_ON IF_ON
H 600 mA OFF OFF ON tuned
L –30 V ON ON OFF de-tuned

As seen in the table above, the IN_BC signal controls the output of the PIN driver circuit. A
monitor is also built in which checks the output voltage or current levels. The UR_ON and
IF_ON LEDs signify that the current or voltage level of the output signal is ok.

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Fig. 37: Status LEDs on the Service Board

DYSCON Module (RX-Coil De-tuning)

Principle
The DYnamic Switch CONtrol is responsible for the dynamic de-tuning of the RX-coils
using PIN diodes which are strategically placed in the coil electronics so that if the diode is
shorted (200 mA) the coil is de-tuned, if opened (30 V) the coil is tuned.
The dynamic control signal IN_LC is produced by the two dynamic signals Coil_Mask_Sel,
LC_Ctrl and a digital mask from the CAN module. This allows the CAN module to freely
program the diode state for tuning or de-tuning according to coil or coil combination. This
concept offers the greatest flexibility and is easily programmable.
The output signals LC1_PIN_1-4 (LOCA 1) and LC2_PIN_1-4 (LOCA 2) are applied to the
RX-coil via the coil connectors of the CODIBOX.

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Fig. 38: Dynamic De-tune Control of RX-Coils

Status LEDs on the Service Board
The output can be measured for troubleshooting purpose on the service board. LEDs are
also provided to indicate the tuning status.

LEDs
IN_LC LC_PIN Coil
U_ON_I_ OFF_BC UR_ON IF_ON
H 200 mA OFF OFF ON de-tuned
L –30 V ON ON OFF tuned

As seen in the table above, the IN_LC signal controls the output of the PIN driver circuit. A
monitor is also built in which checks the output voltage or current levels. The UR_ON and
IF_ON LEDs signify that the current or voltage level of the output signal is ok.

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Fig. 39: Status LEDs on the Service Board

CAPTICON-Module
The CAPacitor and Temperature Interface CONtrol is unique for the MAGNETOM C! sys-
tem (Fig. 41 / p. 57). The word “capacitor“ is used here for the function of the varicap con-
trol.
The CAPTICON-module features the following tasks:
• VARICAP control;
• Communication link to TCU;
• Communication link to RFPA;
• Temperature monitoring of gradient coil;

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• Temperature monitoring of ECA;

VARICAP Control
The DAC-input values sent from the CAN module on the RFCI motherboard are temporarily
stored in the data buffer. Via four digital-to-analog converters the VARICAP-voltages for the
impedance matching (tuning) of the RX-coils are produced.
Communication Link to TCU
An additional CAN module on the CAPTICON features a RS485-communication interface
to the magnet heating (TCU). This allows you to read out the four magnet temperature val-
ues and program new set-points for them via the service software.
Communication Link to RFPA
The RFPA used in the MAGNETOM C!does not have a CAN interface. The communication
to and from the RFPA is realized by a SLIO module (Serial Link I/O) using to fibre-optic con-
nections.

Fig. 40: Status LEDs on the Service Board

Temperature Monitoring of Gradient Coil
The monitoring electronic is placed on the WIB in the RF-room. The warning message
(T>45°) is sent to the CAN module on the CAPTICON via a fiber optic link. The error mes-
sage (T>75°) is going to the GPA and stops the gradient current supply.
Temperature Monitoring of ECA
A temperature sensor mounted on the CAPTICON checks the cabinet temperature of the
ECA.

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Fig. 41: CAPTICON
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RFCI-Power-Supply 0

Overview
The RFCI-PS of the MAGNETOM C! (Fig. 42 / p. 58) uses a switched power supply module
(Alpha 400) and not a water-cooled power regulator as in Harmony/Symphony.

Fig. 42: RFCI-Power-Supply

DISPO D10
The voltages produced on the RFCI-PS are sent to the DISPO D10 (Fig. 44 / p. 60). This
board serves as a distribution board and buffers the voltages by means of capacitors.
The following voltages are distributed by the D10:
• ±15V via X6 to the WIB in the RF-room (magnet room);
• ±5V and ±15V via X3 to the RFSU backplane;
• ±5V and ±15V via X5 to the RFCI motherboard;
• -31V and +28V via X4 to the RFCI motherboard (the door contact is added to this line).

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Fig. 43: DISPO D10

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Fig. 44: RFCI-PS
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Voltage Monitoring 0

To assure proper coil control and operation, all power supply voltages are monitored on the
RFCI motherboard.
Power Supply Failure
All voltages are monitored for low voltage. A failing or weak voltage generates an interrupt
to the CAN module (sequence stop). The failing voltage is also read in by the CAN module
and a status is sent to the NUMARIS error log.

Fig. 45: Voltage Monitoring

Status LEDs on the Service Board
The status of the power supply can be measured on the Service Board and is additionally
indicated by LEDs on that board.

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Fig. 46: Status LEDs on the Service Board

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Changes 63
2-
2Changes

In order to get a quick overview what has changed, here you find the changes to the last
version.

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64 Changes

Changes 2.1

Part ‘RF System’ 0

Version 01

Where What is changed?

Print Number Change from M4-030.850.01 to M4-030.850.14
(Overview / p. 5) Update the figure “RF-Components in ECA“

Version 02 0

Where What is changed?

Body tuning box change new picture of BTB

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