Multi-Domain Bandgap Reference Circuit With Voltage-Based Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RF electronics face challenges in generating accurate bandgap reference voltages across varying power supply domains, requiring custom designs and limiting flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A bandgap reference generator with low voltage, high voltage, and coarse bandgap reference circuits, along with a bandgap selector and translator circuit, allows selection and buffering of reference voltages based on power supply voltage levels, providing flexibility and accuracy across different power domains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single bandgap reference circuit is designed for a specific power supply voltage range, then it can provide accurate reference voltage within that range, but it cannot operate accurately across multiple power supply domains
Solution Approach 1:
The bandgap reference generator is divided into multiple independent bandgap reference circuits, each optimized for a specific power supply voltage range. A first bandgap reference circuit operates in a first voltage range while a second bandgap reference circuit operates in a second voltage range. This segmentation allows each circuit to maintain high accuracy within its designated range while the system as a whole covers multiple power supply domains.
Solution Approach 2:
The bandgap reference generator is designed to perform multiple functions by incorporating several bandgap reference circuits that can each operate in different power supply domains. The system universally supports both low voltage and high voltage operations, with a selector circuit that enables the appropriate circuit to be activated based on the current power supply conditions, making the system adaptable to various operating environments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bandgap reference circuits are implemented for different voltage ranges, then coverage across power supply domains is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A selector circuit is introduced as an intermediary component that manages the multiple bandgap reference circuits. This selector circuit monitors the power supply voltage and automatically selects which bandgap reference circuit should be active based on the current operating conditions. This intermediary simplifies the overall system control and reduces the complexity of managing multiple circuits, as the selector handles the coordination automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The bandgap reference generator employs dynamic switching between different bandgap reference circuits based on real-time power supply voltage conditions. The selector circuit dynamically determines which circuit to activate, allowing the system to adapt its configuration according to operating conditions. This dynamic approach reduces the need for manual configuration and simplifies the user interface despite the presence of multiple circuits.
3Measurement precision
If custom designs are created for each power supply domain, then reference voltage accuracy is maintained, but design time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
A single integrated bandgap reference generator design incorporates multiple bandgap reference circuits that can operate across different power supply domains. This universal design eliminates the need to create separate custom designs for each voltage domain, as one circuit can handle multiple operating conditions. The selector circuit automatically configures the appropriate circuit for the current power supply conditions, maintaining accuracy without requiring separate design processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple bandgap reference circuits are pre-configured during manufacturing with optimized parameters for their respective voltage ranges. This preliminary configuration allows the circuits to be ready for immediate use in their designated domains without requiring additional design or calibration work when the product is deployed. The selector circuit is also pre-programmed with the voltage thresholds for switching between circuits, further reducing design time.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods for bandgap reference generators are disclosed. In certain embodiments, a bandgap reference generator includes a low voltage bandgap reference circuit that generates a first bandgap reference voltage, a high voltage bandgap reference circuit that generates a second bandgap reference voltage, a bandgap selector circuit that outputs the first bandgap reference voltage or the second bandgap reference voltage as a selected bandgap reference voltage based on a voltage level of the power supply voltage, and a bandgap translator circuit that generates an output bandgap reference voltage based on the selected bandgap reference voltage.