Abstract: A low-power clock buffer circuit is disclosed that reduces crowbar current and improves power efficiency across a wide range of supply voltages. The circuit comprises an input stage with current-limited PMOS and NMOS transistors, and an output inverter stage with split-gate drive. The input stage uses current sources to control the rise and fall times of signals driving the output inverter, creating a delay between the activation of the PMOS and NMOS transistors in the output stage. This delay minimizes the duration when both output transistors are simultaneously conducting, significantly reducing crowbar current. An alternative embodiment includes a current-starved latch in the output stage to mitigate floating node situations and enhance signal integrity. The circuit is suitable for clock distribution networks in large digital systems.

Abstract: An electronic device having a digitally controlled resistor is provided. The digitally controlled resistor includes various switch-resistor segments between voltage nodes. In one embodiment, the switch-resistor segment may include a resistor and a switch coupled parallel to the resistor. In another embodiment, the switch-resistor segment may include a resistor, a complement switch coupled in series with the resistor, and a switch coupled parallel to the resistor and the complement switch. Each switch included in the switch-resistor segment operates based on digital bits. Based on the logic value (either ‘0’ or ‘1’) assigned, the switches turn ON (when logic value is ‘1’) and OFF (when logic value is ‘0’). In some embodiments, the switches and the resistor included in the switch-transistor segment are arranged in a symmetrical manner between voltage nodes.