Comparator Power Control Using Enable Signal Generator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image sensor chip systems experience unnecessary power consumption due to the comparator being always turned on, consuming about 50 μA of current continuously, even after the comparison operation is completed.
Innovation Solution
A chip with a comparator and reference voltage generator is designed to include an enable signal generator that generates an enable signal based on the chip power down signal, allowing the comparator to automatically turn off after a predetermined time, reducing unnecessary power consumption by using a latch structure and adjusting the width-to-length ratio of NMOS transistors to control current flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the comparator is always turned on to ensure continuous operation, then the reliability of power voltage determination is improved, but the power consumption increases due to continuous current draw of about 50 μA
Solution Approach 1:
The comparator operates periodically rather than continuously. The enable signal generator produces periodic enable signals that activate the comparator only during necessary comparison operations, allowing it to remain off during idle periods and thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining operational reliability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own internal signals (chip power down signal, comparison completion signals) to automatically control the comparator's operation state. The enable signal generator self-regulates the comparator based on operational status without requiring external continuous control, eliminating unnecessary power consumption while ensuring the comparator is available when needed.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the comparator is turned off after comparison operation to reduce power consumption, then the power consumption is reduced, but the response time increases due to the need to turn it back on for subsequent operations
Solution Approach 1:
The enable signal generator prepares the comparator for operation by activating it in advance based on predicted operational needs. By monitoring system state and generating enable signals proactively, the comparator is ready to operate immediately when comparison is needed, avoiding delays associated with turning it on from an off state while still maintaining power savings during idle periods.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for controlling an I/O interface of a chip operated in multi-power conditions includes an enable signal generator for generating an enable signal based on a chip power down signal; a reference voltage generator for generating a predetermined reference voltage in response to the enable signal; a comparator for determining a voltage required for operating the chip by comparing an external power voltage with the reference voltage in response to the enable signal; and an input/output means for performing an I/O interface function based on the voltage determined according to the comparison result of the comparator.