Data Converter Power Regulation for Higher VREF and Easier Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply systems for precision data converters, such as ADCs and DACs, face limitations in achieving high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) due to restricted reference voltage levels, which are constrained by the power supply voltage and tolerance, leading to compromised accuracy and sequencing challenges.
Innovation Solution
A power supply circuit with a voltage regulator that uses a reference voltage other than ground potential, allowing for a regulated output voltage that tracks the reference voltage, thereby enabling higher reference voltage levels and reducing tolerances, thus improving power supply accuracy and simplifying sequencing requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the reference voltage is constrained by the power supply voltage and tolerance, then the power supply system can operate within specified limits, but the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is restricted and accuracy is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a voltage regulator circuit as an intermediary between the power supply voltage source and the data converter reference voltage. This regulator circuit actively maintains a stable reference voltage (VREF) that is independent of power supply fluctuations, thereby decoupling the reference voltage stability from the power supply tolerance and enabling higher accuracy without being constrained by power supply variations.
2Measurement precision
If the power supply voltage is increased to allow higher reference voltage levels, then the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) improves, but the risk of exceeding maximum voltage specifications increases
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage regulator circuit is designed with built-in protection mechanisms that preemptively prevent the reference voltage from exceeding maximum specifications. The regulator maintains the reference voltage within safe limits (e.g., VREF < VDD - 0.3V) through active control, providing a safety margin that cushions against potential overvoltage conditions and ensures compliance with device specifications.
3Device complexity
If traditional ground-referenced voltage regulators are used, then the circuit design is simple, but complex power supply sequencing requirements arise to avoid electrostatic discharge issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional grounding approach by using a suspended reference voltage (VREF) that is not directly tied to ground potential. Instead of referencing all voltages to ground and managing sequencing to prevent ESD, the suspended reference architecture allows the reference voltage to be established independently, eliminating the need for complex sequencing and simplifying the power-up procedure.
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
This approach allows for a significant increase in the reference voltage, enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and reducing errors caused by power supply changes, while maintaining the power supply voltage safely within specified limits, and ensures proper sequencing to avoid electrostatic discharge issues.
Implementation Method 1
Voltage regulators can be used to provide a circuit supply rail having the regulated voltage by converting available unregulated power to power at specified voltage levels
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for improving a power supply accuracy of a precision data converter system, such as analog-to-digital converter circuits (ADCs) and digital-to-analog converter circuits (DACs). Improving the power supply accuracy can enable a reference voltage to be as large as possible, thereby increasing the signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR). The techniques can also simplify power supply sequencing requirements for the data converter system.