Bootstrap Level Shifter Circuit Without Static Power Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bi-directional level shifter circuits in computer systems face challenges due to their large size and static power consumption, as well as the complexity and cost associated with devices having multiple threshold voltages, which are not suitable for dynamic voltage relationships between power domains.
Innovation Solution
A level shifter circuit comprising an input circuit, a bootstrap circuit, a feedback circuit, and a driver circuit, along with a transient assist circuit, which translates signals between power domains without static power consumption and multiple threshold voltages, using MOSFETs and capacitors to manage voltage levels and current sourcing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If bi-directional level shifter circuits are implemented using conventional designs, then signal translation between different power supply voltage levels is achieved, but the circuit size becomes large and static power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The level shifter circuit is divided into distinct functional modules: input circuitry with first and second transistors for receiving input signals at different voltage levels, bootstrap circuitry with third and fourth transistors for voltage level translation, and output circuitry with fifth and sixth transistors for generating output signals. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing overall circuit size while maintaining bi-directional signal translation capability between power domains.
2Adaptability or versatility
If bi-directional level shifter circuits are implemented using conventional designs, then signal translation between different power supply voltage levels is achieved, but static power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The level shifter circuit employs dynamic control mechanisms where transistors are selectively activated based on the direction of signal translation and the voltage levels involved. The bootstrap circuitry dynamically adjusts voltage levels during operation, and the circuit operates in different modes (first power domain to second power domain, or vice versa) without maintaining continuous static current paths. This dynamic operation eliminates static power consumption while preserving bi-directional adaptability.
3Manufacturing precision
If devices with multiple threshold voltages are used in level shifter circuits, then voltage level translation is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using devices with multiple threshold voltages, the circuit achieves precise voltage level translation by changing the operating parameters of standard transistors. The bootstrap circuitry dynamically adjusts gate voltages to control the threshold behavior of transistors during different phases of operation. This parameter-based control allows accurate voltage translation between power domains using conventional single-threshold-voltage transistors, reducing device complexity and manufacturing cost.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The proposed solution enables efficient bi-directional level shifting with reduced static power consumption and manufacturing costs, maintaining performance goals while simplifying design complexities.
Implementation Method 1
The bootstrap circuit may be configured to increase a voltage level of a bootstrap node in response to the high-going transition of the input signal. The feedback circuit may be configured to charge the bootstrap node to a voltage level of a second power supply signal
Data Source
AI summary
A level shifter circuit included in a computer system may include bootstrap and feedback nodes. The level shifter circuit may discharge the feedback node in response to high-going transition on a received input signal generated using a first power supply signal. The level shifter circuit may also increase a voltage level of the bootstrap node in response to the high-going transition and charge the bootstrap node, in response to the discharge of the feedback node, to a voltage level of a second power supply signal that is different than a voltage level of the first power supply signal. The level shifter circuit may generate an output signal using the voltage levels of the feedback node and the second power supply signal.