Abstract: Disclosed is a current driver that includes an array of current buffers and a program control circuit. The program control circuit responds to an externally generated programming signal to generate buffer direction control, daisy chain configuration control, and tristate control signals. The buffers of the array of current buffers are individually programmed by the direction control and the daisy chain configuration control signals to transmit data in one of a forward and reverse direction and to daisy chain a buffer to a preceding buffer, respectively. The array of current buffers is responsive to the tristate control signal to operate in a tristate mode. The array of current buffers may be reprogrammed in response to a reset signal.

Abstract: A generic driver interface card comprising a configurable digital circuit card that has programmable logic functions and I/O connectors to provide the capability of implementing many new or old circuit designs without re-etching the circuit card. The circuit card utilizes a programmable gate array, a bidirectional programmable I/O driver, and an EEPROM to provide for reconfiguration of the circuit card upon reset. The circuit card is a single versatile circuit card that may be used in many different applications. The logic functions and I/O pins of the circuit card are programmable to allow emulation of old designs and implementation of new designs without the need to physically modify the card. The circuit card utilizes the bidirectional programmable I/O driver to provide a programmable connector with the high current drive capability required to interface with older-generation systems. The circuit card allows design changes without the need to physically modify the circuitry.