Abstract: A programmable line terminator device that can optimally terminate a transmission line or bus even if the line impedance is variable or not well defined. The line terminator includes a programmable multi-line active terminator for terminating the bus. The line terminator provides programmable termination impedance and bias for a plurality of lines on the bus. The line terminator may be uniquely addressed and programmed via address and control signals carried by one or more of the lines on the bus. The line terminator detects what type of bus it is terminating and what types of devices are connected to the bus. The line terminator includes a mechanism for adjusting the termination impedance and bias for the lines on the bus based on the bus type, the types of devices connected to the bus, and/or the control signals carried by the bus or one or more lines separate from the bus.

Abstract: A programmable line terminator device that can optimally terminate a transmission line or bus even if the line impedance is variable or not well defined. The line terminator includes a programmable multi-line active terminator for terminating the bus. The line terminator provides programmable termination impedance and bias for a plurality of lines on the bus. The line terminator may be uniquely addressed and programmed via address and control signals carried by one or more of the lines on the bus. The line terminator detects what type of bus it is terminating and what types of devices are connected to the bus. The line terminator includes a mechanism for adjusting the termination impedance and bias for the lines on the bus based on the bus type, the types of devices connected to the bus, and/or the control signals carried by the bus or one or more lines separate from the bus.