Having Feedback Patents (Class 327/54)
  • Patent number: 7825733
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a circuit providing a power for a sense amplifier that stabilizes a power voltage supplied to the sense amplifier by compensating a noise generated in the power voltage when the sense amplifier operates with an selectively generated decoupling noise. The circuit providing a power for a sense amplifier includes a sense amplifying circuit sensing and amplifying data loaded on a bit line with a first power. A power supplying unit provides the first power to the sense amplifying circuit. A decoupling unit generates a decoupling noise with a second power and provides the decoupling noise to the first power voltage. The decoupling noise is maintained for a period including a time point of an operation of the sense amplifying circuit and a predetermined time thereafter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Hynix Semiconductor Inc.
    Inventor: Jun Gi Choi
  • Patent number: 7813201
    Abstract: A differential sense amplifier can perform data sensing using a very low supply voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: ATMEL Corporation
    Inventors: Jimmy Fort, Renaud Dura, Thierry Soude
  • Patent number: 7782126
    Abstract: A mechanism is provided for a one card to filter false signals due to a another card being hot-plugged. A discriminator circuit in the card receives a low-state signal via an input and, responsive to receiving the low-state signal, the discriminator circuit compares the low-state signal to a static signal. Responsive to the low-state signal being greater than the static signal, the discriminator circuit outputs a high-voltage signal. The high-voltage signal output by the discriminator circuit indicates that the low-state signal is a false low signal. Responsive to the low-state signal being less than or equal to the static signal, the discriminator circuit outputs a low-voltage signal. The low-voltage signal output by the discriminator circuit indicates that the low-state signal is a valid low signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Brian James Cagno, Gregg Steven Lucas, Tohru Sumiyoshi
  • Patent number: 7778374
    Abstract: A dual reference input receiver, and a method of receiving, wherein the input receiver includes a first input buffer which is synchronized with and enabled by a clock signal, senses a difference between the input data signal and a first reference voltage, and amplifies the sensing result; a second input buffer which is synchronized with and enabled by the clock signal, senses a difference between a second reference voltage and the input data signal, and amplifies the sensing result; and a phase detector which detects a difference between a phase of output signals of the first and second input buffers, and outputs a signal corresponding to the detection result. The first and second reference voltages may respectively be higher and lower than a median voltage of the input data signal. Thus, a single input data signal is advantageously used and a wide input data eye is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Young-jin Jeon
  • Patent number: 7768320
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a sense amplifier flop design that is tolerant of process variation. Specific staging of signal transitions through the sense amplifier flop circuit eliminate operational phases involving short-circuit currents between n-channel field-effect transistors (N-FETs) and p-channel field effect transistors (P-FETs) in a complementary-symmetry metal-oxide semiconductor process. By eliminating short-circuit currents between N-FETs and P-FETs within the sense amplifier flop, a large variation in conductivity ratio between N-FETs and P-FETs may be tolerated by the sense amplifier flop. This tolerance to conductivity ratio translates to a tolerance for process variation by the sense amplifier flop circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: NVIDIA Corporation
    Inventors: Ge Yang, Hwong-Kwo Lin, Charles Chew-Yuen Young
  • Patent number: 7759981
    Abstract: An amplifying circuit of a semiconductor integrated circuit includes a data amplifier that outputs an up-signal and a down-signal amplified according to a comparison result between an up-data signal and a down-data signal in response to a control signal. The data amplifier repeats an operation of amplifying the up-signal and the down-signal according to the comparison result between the up-signal and the down-signal to be fed back to the data amplifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Hynix Semiconductor Inc.
    Inventor: Sung-Joo Ha
  • Publication number: 20100164449
    Abstract: A controller and an output filter for a power converter, and a power converter employing at least one of the same. In one embodiment, the controller includes an error amplifier with first and second input terminals coupled to one of an operating characteristic and a reference voltage of the power converter, and a switch configured to couple the first and second input terminals to one of the operating characteristic and the reference voltage as a function of a power conversion mode of the power converter. In one embodiment, the output filter includes an output filter capacitor with a first terminal coupled to a first output terminal of a power converter, and an output filter inductor coupled between a second terminal of the output filter capacitor and a second output terminal of the power converter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2008
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventors: Mirmira Ramarao Dwarakanath, Jeffrey Demski, Ahmed Mohamed Abou-Alfotouh
  • Patent number: 7714622
    Abstract: An input stage of an integrated circuit, includes a comparator for comparing the voltage of an input signal of the input stage with a reference voltage, and supplying a binary output signal the value of which depends on the result of the comparison of the input signal with the reference voltage. The input stage comprises a feedback circuit measuring a parameter representative of the operation of the comparator, and raising the reference voltage while the measured parameter reveals a faulty operation of the comparator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics SA
    Inventor: Francois Tailliet
  • Patent number: 7701256
    Abstract: A signal conditioning circuit for a latching comparator comprising first and second transistors arranged in a long tail pair, the long tail pair having an active load and configured to act as an integrator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Analog Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Peter Hurrell, Colin Gerard Lyden
  • Publication number: 20100090726
    Abstract: A data receiver of a semiconductor integrated circuit is configured to detect received data using an equalization function, wherein the data receiver is configured to stop the equalization function during a period in which the data is not received.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: HYNIX SEMICONDUCTOR, INC.
    Inventors: Hyung Soo Kim, Kun Woo Park, Yong Ju Kim, Hee Woong Song, Ic Su Oh, Tae Jin Hwang, Hae Rang Choi, Ji Wang Lee
  • Publication number: 20100066413
    Abstract: A current sensing circuit for a pulse width modulation (PWM) application may include first and second input terminals to be coupled to ends of a sensing resistance, an output terminal, and first and second internal circuit nodes. The current sensing circuit further may include an input block comprising a first transconductance amplifier to be coupled to a supply voltage. The first transconductance amplifier may be coupled to the first and second input terminals and to the first and second internal circuit nodes. The current sensing circuit may also include an amplifier block comprising an amplifier to be coupled to a reference voltage, and coupled to the first and second internal circuit nodes and the output terminal, and a feedback block comprising a second transconductance amplifier to be coupled to the supply voltage and being coupled to the output terminal and the first and second internal circuit nodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: STMicroelectronics S.r.I.
    Inventors: Maurizio NESSI, Luca Schillaci
  • Patent number: 7633318
    Abstract: A data receiver of a semiconductor integrated circuit includes an amplifier that outputs an amplified signal by detecting and amplifying received data using equalization function according to feedback data, a detecting unit that detects a period when data is not received in the amplifier and outputs a detecting signal, and an equalization function control unit that stops the equalization function of the amplifier in response to the detecting signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Hynix Semiconductor Inc.
    Inventors: Hyung-Soo Kim, Kun-Woo Park, Yong-Ju Kim, Hee-Woong Song, Ic-Su Oh, Tae-Jin Hwang, Hae-Rang Choi, Ji-Wang Lee
  • Patent number: 7619464
    Abstract: An electronic data storage system uses current comparison to generate a voltage bias. In at least one embodiment, a voltage bias generator, that includes a current differential amplifier, generates a current that charges a load to a predetermined voltage bias level. The current comparison results in the comparison between two currents, Iref and Isaref. The current Isaref can be generated using components that match components in the load and memory circuits in the system. In one embodiment, multiple sense amplifiers represent the load. By using matched components, as physical characteristics of the load and memory circuits change, the current Isaref also changes. Thus, the voltage bias changes to match the changing characteristics of the load and memory circuits. The voltage bias generator can include a current booster that decreases the initial charging time of a reactive load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon S. Choy, Yanzhuo Wang
  • Patent number: 7605615
    Abstract: There is provided a voltage comparator circuit with even lower power consumption. It comprises an FET Q1, to the gate of which a signal input terminal IN1 is connected, an FET Q2, to the gate of which a signal input terminal IN2 is connected, a bistable circuit, an AND circuit G, and an FET Q11. A pulse signal ?, which becomes a strobe signal for the comparison, is supplied to the bistable circuit, and when the pulse signal ? is at a low level, the logic values of output terminals OUT1 and OUT2 go to a high level, and the output of the AND circuit G becomes high, turning the FET Q11 on. When the pulse signal ? changes to a high level from a low level, input voltages are compared, one of the output terminals OUT1 or OUT2 changes to a low level, corresponding to the value relationship between the drain currents of the FETs Q1 and Q2, and the output of the AND circuit G goes to a low level, turning the FET Q11 off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: NEC Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: Akira Yukawa
  • Patent number: 7583122
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to a signal receiver inserted between a first and a second voltage reference and having a first and a second input terminal effective to receive differential signals and an output terminal effective to provide a converted signal. Advantageously, the signal receiver according to embodiments of the invention comprises a conversion stage inserted between the first and second voltage references and connected between the first and second input terminals of the signal receiver and an input terminal of an hysteresis comparator, connected in turn to the output terminal of the signal receiver. In particular, the conversion stage performs a conversion from any input signal received on respective input terminals to an intermediate signal provided on an output terminal and suitable for reception by the hysteresis comparator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.R.L.
    Inventors: Marco Ronchi, Marco Angelici
  • Patent number: 7545685
    Abstract: A high-voltage switch circuit includes an enable control circuit, a feedback circuit, a boosting circuit, and a high voltage switch. The enable control circuit precharges an output node to a set voltage in response to an enable signal. The feedback circuit supplies a feedback voltage to an input node in response to a switch control voltage generated from the output node when the output node is precharged. The boosting circuit boosts the feedback voltage and outputs a boosting voltage to the output node, in response to clock signals, thereby increasing the switch control voltage. The high voltage switch is turned on or off in response to the switch control voltage, and is turned on to receive a high voltage and output the received high voltage. The boosting circuit includes an amplification circuit of a cross-coupled type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Hynix Semiconductor Inc.
    Inventor: Seok Joo Lee
  • Patent number: 7525346
    Abstract: In one system embodiment, the system is characterized by: a differential amplifier including but not limited to at least one amplifying transistor having an emitter coupled directly to a ground. In one embodiment of a method of making a system, the method is characterized by: operably coupling at least one amplifying transistor of a differential amplifier directly to a ground. In one embodiment of a method of driving a system, the method is characterized by: driving at least one amplifying transistor of a differential amplifier with an emitter-follower feedback loop. In one system embodiment, the system is characterized by: a differential amplifier including but not limited to a first amplifying transistor having a base operably coupled with a first emitter-follower feedback loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Mindspeed Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael P. Khaw, Daniel S. Draper
  • Patent number: 7514991
    Abstract: A duty cycle and phase placement sampling circuit that can be used for high accuracy sampling and correcting the duty cycle and placement of differential clock signals is provided. The duty cycle and phase placement sampling circuit includes dual differential input stages and re-timed precharge signals that allow for high accuracy sampling of common mode logic clock phases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Curt Schnarr
  • Patent number: 7482843
    Abstract: The amplifier includes first and second inverters that form a flip-flop. In this flip-flop, an input of first inverter is connected to an output of the second inverter, and an output of the first inverter is connected to an input of the second inverter. Control terminals of at least one transistors (MN1, MN2) of first and second transistor pairs (MP1, MN1 and MP2, MN2) that constitute first and second inverters, respectively, are connected to inputs of first and second inverters through first and second capacitances (C1, C2), respectively. At resetting, inputs (1, 2) and outputs (OUT, OUTB) of first and second inverters are not mutually cross-connected, wherein a reference signal (VR) is supplied in common to inputs (1, 2) of the first and second inverters. The one transistors (MN1, MN2) are diode-connected. Voltage differences between reference signal (VR) and respective control terminals of the one transistors are stored in the first and second capacitances (C1, C2), respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignees: NEC Electronics Corporation, NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroshi Tsuchi, Osamu Ishibashi
  • Patent number: 7400279
    Abstract: Circuits and methods may be improved by using ADCs that compensate for the effect of comparator input offset on comparator decisions. Offset compensation may be implemented in an ADC by using an amplifier section between the input of the ADC and a comparator section of the ADC to amplify the signals supplied to the comparator inputs and thereby reduce the effect of comparator offset on the comparator decision. The comparator section may be an autozeroing comparator section that is capable of performing an offset reduction operation to store offset compensation values at capacitors provided at its inputs. The amplifier section may be an autozeroing amplifier section having one or more amplifier stages that are capable of performing an offset reduction operation to store offset compensation values at capacitors provided at their inputs. Offset compensation may also be implemented using an autozeroing comparator section without a preceding amplifier section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventor: Alexander Krymski
  • Patent number: 7378881
    Abstract: Embodiments of a variable gain amplifier circuit are described. In one embodiment, multiple resistor devices are coupled in series to form a string of resistor devices and to receive an input current. A multiple input operational amplifier device has an amplifier output coupled to a feedback resistor in the string of resistor devices and multiple amplifier input pairs, each amplifier input being coupled into the string of resistor devices as a tap between two respective adjacent resistors, each amplifier input pair being controlled by a corresponding bias current transmitted from a respective bias current source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: Ion E. Opris
  • Patent number: 7368955
    Abstract: In accordance with some embodiments, a current-balanced logic circuit includes a first sense amplifier, a second sense amplifier, and a current-source transistor which provides bias current to the first and second sense amplifiers. The first and second sense amplifiers are alternately activated by first and second differential clock signals, and when activated convert data received on differential input lines into logical values for storage in respective storage circuits. The storage circuits may be flip-flops, latches, keeper circuits, or other circuits for storing data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Kursad Kiziloglu, Michael W. Altmann
  • Patent number: 7315478
    Abstract: Provided is an internal voltage generator for a semiconductor memory includes: a first internal voltage drive device for driving an internal voltage in response to a first reference voltage corresponding to a target level of an internal voltage; and a second internal voltage drive device for driving the internal voltage in response to a second reference voltage having a lower level than the first reference voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Hynix Semiconductor, Inc.
    Inventor: Chang-Ho Do
  • Patent number: 7262638
    Abstract: A current sense amplifier includes a pair of cross-coupled transistors, each transistor being connected between a respective input signal line and a respective output signal generating node, for amplifying voltage difference between the output signal generating nodes. Additionally, the current sense amplifier may include a constant current circuit connected between the output signal generating nodes and a common node for allowing current to flow between the common node and the output signal generating nodes in response to a bias voltage; and a voltage generating circuit for causing a voltage difference between the output signal generating nodes by being turned on in response to a respective output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jae-Yoon Shim
  • Patent number: 7199657
    Abstract: An amplification apparatus is provided that includes a plurality of gain stages including a first gain stage having first and second transistors and a second gain stage having third and fourth transistors. A plurality of replica stages may also be provided that includes a first replica stage and a second replica stage. Each replica stage may correspond/match one of the plurality of gain stages. An amplifying device may be provided to adjust a body potential of at least the first transistor of the first gain based on an output of the first replica stage and an output of the second replica stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Siva G. Narendra, Vivek K. De
  • Patent number: 7173856
    Abstract: The memory device has a plurality of memory cells each coupled to a bitline. A feedback transistor is coupled to the bitline and provides voltage feedback on the bitline's precharge status. A biasing transistor is coupled to the feedback transistor. The biasing transistor provides a bias voltage to the feedback transistor in response to a reference voltage on the biasing transistor. A cascode-connected transistor is coupled to the feedback transistor and the biasing transistor. This transistor provides a stable bias voltage to the biasing transistor. An output latch circuit is coupled to the bitline for providing a latched output of the memory cell's data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Tommaso Vali, Giovanni Santin, Michele Incarnati
  • Patent number: 7132861
    Abstract: A high speed, high sensitivity post amplifier as described herein includes a digitally-controlled DC offset cancellation feature. The amplifier circuit is configured to provide DC offset voltage levels in response to a digital control signal, where the digital control signal is generated based upon a data error metric such as bit error rate. The AC signal path and the DC offset adjustment signal path in the amplifier circuit are separated to facilitate operation with normal power supply voltages, and to achieve low power operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Applied MicroCircuits Corporation
    Inventors: Wei Fu, Joseph James Balardeta
  • Patent number: 7102394
    Abstract: A circuit in an integrated circuit having input terminals coupled to a resistor network for selecting one of multiple digital states includes a tri-state circuit, a multiplexer, a comparator and a control circuit. A DAC can be used to generate a set of comparison voltage levels. The circuit detects the power connection and the resistance values of at least two resistors in the resistor network having a third resistor of fixed resistance. The resistance values for the two resistors are selected from a set of resistance values corresponding to the number of digital stages which can be programmed on each terminal. The power connection option doubles the number of digital stages to be programmed on each terminal. Thus, multiple programming states can be assigned to each control pin of an integrated circuit and a large number of programming states can be programmed using a small number of control pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Micrel, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Wilson, Peter Chambers
  • Patent number: 7049853
    Abstract: A device to control a sense amplifier comprise a resetable control circuit containing a first input, a second input, a third input, and an output; the first input coupled to the output or to a ground; the second input coupled to receive a start signal; the third input coupled to receive output signals of the sense amplifier; the output coupled to the sense amplifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tao-Ping Wang
  • Patent number: 7046567
    Abstract: A sense amplifying circuit and a bit comparator having the sense amplifying circuit. The sense amplifying circuit may include a selecting unit, a sensing unit, a latching unit, an output unit, and a switching unit. The selecting unit may select one pair from a first pair of a first signal and a first inverted signal and a second pair of a second signal and a second inverted signal, in response to a selection signal and an inverted selection signal. The sensing unit may sense voltage levels of one pair of signals selected from the first pair and the second pair. The latching unit may precharge first and second nodes in response to a clock signal and controls voltage levels of the first and second nodes in response to a sensing result of the sensing unit. The output unit may invert the voltage levels of the first and second nodes to generate first and second output signals. The switching unit is capable of controlling the operation of the selecting unit in response to the clock signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Min-Su Kim
  • Patent number: 7042249
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for actuating a transistor (10) having the following steps: (a) a first predetermined positive potential is applied to a first voltage supply node (13) in a latch circuit (11), the voltage supply node (13) being coupled to a control connection on the transistor (10); (b) a reference-ground potential is applied to a second voltage supply node (14) in the latch circuit (11), the second voltage supply node (14) being connected to a source connection on the transistor (10); (c) the latch circuit (11) is set to a predetermined state, which turns the transistor (10) on or off; (d) the potential at the second voltage supply node (14) is lowered; and (e) the potential at the first voltage supply node (13) is lowered if the potential difference between the first and second voltage supply nodes (13, 14) exceeds a predetermined threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventors: Maciej Jankowski, Stephan Rogl
  • Patent number: 7038954
    Abstract: A memory device includes an equalization voltage generator. The equalization voltage generator includes an oscillator and a charge pump to produce a first voltage, which may be used as an equalization voltage for pairs of complementary digit lines. The oscillator is controlled by an oscillator control signal, which is produced by a feedback and control loop of the equalization voltage generator. The feedback and control loop includes a reference generator circuit to produce a stable, internal reference signal that is clamped at a maximum reference voltage. A comparator of the feedback and control loop compares the internal reference signal with a second voltage, which is proportional to the first voltage. The comparator causes the oscillator to turn on when the second voltage is lower than the reference voltage, and causes the oscillator to turn off when the second voltage is higher than the reference voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Chulmin Jung
  • Patent number: 7015728
    Abstract: A high voltage floating current sense amplifier circuit, including first and second resistive devices and a floating amplifier circuit, that senses current through a current sense device coupled between an output node and a battery node each referenced to a common node. The battery node couples to a positive terminal of a removable battery. The floating amplifier circuit drives a proportional current through the first resistor in order to maintain voltage across the first resistive device at approximately the same voltage as that across the current sense device. The second resistive device has a first end coupled to the common node and a second end coupled to receive the proportional current for developing a sense voltage indicative of current through the current sense device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Intersil Americas Inc.
    Inventor: Eric M. Solic
  • Patent number: 6958926
    Abstract: A sensor for a switching circuit detects the logical state of the switching circuit by monitoring the current flow through the switching circuit. The current flow is conditioned by one or more current limiters and a voltage regulator, coupled in series with the switching circuit. The sensor also includes a current limit control circuit coupled to each of the current limiters. The sensor is effectively shielded from the effect of parasitic capacitance in the switching device because the current flow through the switching circuit reacts immediately and without regard to the level of parasitic capacitance whenever the switching circuit makes a state change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Zvi Regev, Alon Regev
  • Patent number: 6949961
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a power switch device (33) includes a first MOSFET device 41 and a second MOSFET device (42). A split gate structure (84) including a first gate electrode (48,87) controls the first MOSFET device (41). A second gate electrode (49,92) controls the second MOSFET device (42). A current limit device (38) is coupled to the first gate electrode (48,97) to turn on the first MOSFET device during a current limit mode. A comparator device (36) is coupled to the second gate electrode (49,92) to turn on the second MOSFET device (42) when the power switch device (33) is no longer in current limit mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Semiconductor Components Industries, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Stephen P. Robb, David K. Briggs
  • Patent number: 6937071
    Abstract: A differential CMOS amplifier includes two CMOS inverters and biasing circuitry providing feedback loops across the output and input of each inverter. The biasing circuitry provides linear biasing so that the inverters can apply a desired gain to a pair of high frequency input signals (i.e., a differential input signal). The biasing circuitry can include operational amplifiers (op-amps) for providing positive feedback control between the output and input of the inverters. The inputs of the inverters can be regulated by this feedback loop such that their outputs are driven to the reference voltage, thereby forcing the inverters to operate in their linear regions so that non-distorting amplification can be applied to the input AC signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Micrel, Incorporated
    Inventor: Farhood Moraveji
  • Patent number: 6894541
    Abstract: A sense amplifier includes a feedback controlled bit line access scheme that feeds a sense amplifier output signal back to control operation of its associated bit line access transistor. This feedback may be implemented using a pair of inverter circuits each coupling a respective output signal to the control gate of the associated access transistor. Alternatively, the feedback may be implement using a logic gate which logically combines the sense amplifier output signals together to generate an output signal for controlling operation of both access transistors. The logic gate is preferably a NAND gate. The sense amplifier further includes a cross-connected feedback inversion circuit which inverts a sense amplifier output signal from a first latch inverter for application to a conducting line of a second latch inverter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics Pvt. Ltd.
    Inventors: Vivek Nautiyal, Ashish Kumar
  • Patent number: 6882183
    Abstract: In a multi-level output circuit, an amplifier circuit amplifies a constant input voltage and outputs the amplified constant input voltage. The multi-level output circuit is capable of selectively outputting signals of different levels by switching the gain of the amplifier circuit by a switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Mitsumi Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Nagayoshi Dobashi
  • Patent number: 6842073
    Abstract: An electronic circuit comprising an amplifier (AMP) for amplifying a binary input signal (Ui) including an input stage coupled to receive the binary input signal (Ui) comprising means for supplying a DC current to the input stage. The means supplies a current having a first (I1) current value to the input stage during a period of time that is approximately equal to the period of time corresponding to a transition phase from a first binary signal value to a second binary signal value. During the remaining time, the means supplies a current having a second (I2) current value which is smaller than the first (I1) current value. By virtue thereof, the electronic circuit only consumes a significant amount of power during a transition phase from the first binary signal value to the second binary signal value. The amplifier (AMP) can be implemented in all kinds of digital circuits, of which the digital voltage range (the difference between the second and the first binary values) must be increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Gerrit W. Den Besten
  • Publication number: 20040257119
    Abstract: In a differential output signal circuit suitable for restraining voltage overshooting/undershooting at differential output terminals due to lags in input signals and realizing stable and fast switching of differential input signals, a first differential pair of PMOS. transistors connected to a first current source and a second differential pair of NMOS transistors connected to a second current source are mutually connected at the differential output terminals, and a capacitor is connected between the connection nodes of the respective differential pairs and current sources. A transitional current path of the capacitor restrains voltage variations during differential input signal switching.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Applicant: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Hideaki Watanabe, Hiroko Haraguchi
  • Patent number: 6833737
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for decreasing the timing delay variation of output signals obtained from an SOI technology sense amplifier. The cross-coupled latch includes FETs where the body is connected to one of source and drain to minimize switching history effects while the input FETs have a higher than normal gate switching voltage to increase input signal sensitivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Anthony Gus Aipperspach
  • Patent number: 6803794
    Abstract: A differential capacitance sense amplifier capable of measuring a small difference-signal capacitance in the presence of circuit mismatches and large unequal interconnect capacitances. The sense amplifier includes three sections: a common-mode section applies a ‘read’ voltage to two capacitors in a manner that rejects unequal interconnect capacitance, a difference-mode section generates a signal proportional to the capacitance difference between the two capacitors, and an offset-canceling section compensates for circuit mismatches in the difference-mode section. The amplifier can be adapted for use as a sense amplifier for a ferroelectric differential capacitance memory unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Mark V. Martin, John J. Drab
  • Patent number: 6784698
    Abstract: A sense amplifier having improved common mode rejection has a differential input and a differential output. A first level shifting transconductance circuit is connected to receive the differential input. A gain and compensation circuit is connected to the level shifting transconductance circuit, and a buffer is connected to the gain and compensation circuit. The differential output of the sense amplifier is taken at an output of the buffer. A feedback network is connected between the output of the buffer and an input of the gain and compensation circuit. The feedback network includes a divider circuit connected to the output of the buffer and a second level shifting transconductance circuit connected between the divider circuit and the input of the gain and compensation circuit. The first and second level shifting transconductance circuits are preferably matched to one another for distortion cancellation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Agere Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Jason P. Brenden
  • Patent number: 6775165
    Abstract: A sensor for a switching circuit detects the logical state of the switching circuit by monitoring the current flow through the switching circuit. The current flow is conditioned by one or more current limiters and a voltage regulator, coupled in series with the switching circuit. The sensor also includes a current limit control circuit coupled to each of the current limiters. The sensor is effectively shielded from the effect of parasitic capacitance in the switching device because the current flow through the switching circuit reacts immediately and without regard to the level of parasitic capacitance whenever the switching circuit makes a state change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Zvi Regev, Alon Regev
  • Publication number: 20040066215
    Abstract: An integrated circuit interconnection comprising a transmission line having a low characteristic impedance, and including a first end and a second end. A driver is coupled to the first end of the transmission line, and the transmission line is terminated with a current sense amplifier having an input impedance corresponding to the characteristic impedance of the transmission line. A plurality of components selected from the group consisting of capacitive elements, inductive elements and a combination of capacitive and inductive elements are connected at spaced intervals to the transmission line between the first and second ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2003
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventor: Leonard Forbes
  • Patent number: 6700415
    Abstract: A sense amplifier that is configurable to operate in two modes in order to control a voltage swing on the sense amplifier output. The sense amplifier has two feedback paths including a first feedback path having a transistor with a fast response time in order to allow the circuit to operate as fast as possible, and a second feedback path for providing voltage swing control. In the first operating mode, the “turbo” mode, both feedback paths are in operation to provide a higher margin of swing control, thus higher sensing speed. In the second operating mode, the “non-turbo” mode, only the first feedback path is in operation which allows for greater stability and a reduction in power consumption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Atmel Corporation
    Inventor: Nicola Telecco
  • Patent number: 6628145
    Abstract: A logic gate that includes a first differential amplifier and a feedback circuit. The first differential amplifier has a number of first (e.g., non-inverting) inputs and a second (e.g., inverting) input, receives and senses input signals applied to the non-inverting inputs, and provides a differential output that is a particular logic function (e.g., an ‘OR’) of the input signals. The non-inverting inputs may correspond to the gates of a number of transistors coupled in parallel to form an OR function. The feedback circuit detects the (e.g., non-inverting node of the) differential output and provides a control signal for the inverting input of the first differential amplifier. The logic gate typically further includes a second differential amplifier that senses and further drives the differential output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Resonext Communications, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas Sudjian
  • Patent number: 6621259
    Abstract: A current sense amplifier (10) for measuring current flowing through a sense resistor (12) coupled between first (11) and second (13) terminals, respectively, of the current sense amplifier, the current sense amplifier includes a first amplifier (18) having a first input (17) coupled by a first resistor (16) to the first terminal (11) and a second input (20) coupled by a second resistor (19) to the second terminal (13) and a bias circuit (30,24) coupled to the first input (17) of the first amplifier for causing the bias current to flow through the first resistor (16. A feedback transistor (26) is coupled to the output (22) of the first amplifier and the second input (20) of the first amplifier to cause a feedback current to equalize the voltages on the first (17) and second (20) inputs of the first amplifier and supply the feedback current to an output terminal (36) of the current sense amplifier (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: David M. Jones, Heinz-Juergen Metzger
  • Patent number: 6600363
    Abstract: A floating-gate MOS differential pair amplifier has a regulating feedback voltage whose swing is folded up into the same range over which the input and output voltages swing. In one embodiment, output currents are mirror copies of differential pair currents whose sum is regulated. In a further embodiment, feedback that regulates the sum of the currents is provided to an extra control gate connected to the floating gates. The control gate comprises a capacitive voltage divider in one embodiment that is coupled to gates in the differential pair and in the current mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Cornell Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley A. Minch
  • Patent number: 6566915
    Abstract: A differential envelope detector for detecting the envelope of a received differential signal. The received differential signal comprises first and second received voltages, and the differential envelope detector provides a differential output voltage comprising first and second output voltages, where the difference of the first and second output voltages is indicative of the envelope of the difference of the first and second received voltages. For full-wave rectification, the first received voltage is coupled to the non-inverting input port of a first differential amplifier and the inverting input port of a second differential amplifier, and the second received voltage is coupled to the inverting input port of the first differential amplifier and the non-inverting input port of the second differential amplifier. The output ports of the differential amplifiers are coupled to their input ports to provide negative feedback.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Yoel Krupnik, Lior Horwitz