Integrated Circuit Pin Reduction via LED Signal Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices, such as communication devices, require configuration of integrated circuits during initialization, which typically necessitates additional connection pins or terminals for receiving configuration data, increasing complexity and pin count.
Innovation Solution
An integrated circuit with output terminals that utilize a non-linear circuit element like a light-emitting diode, where configuration data is transferred by measuring signal values outside the operating regime, allowing the same terminals to be used for both operating and configuration purposes, reducing the pin count by using the output terminals for both functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional connection pins or terminals are provided for receiving configuration data, then configuration capability is improved, but device complexity and pin count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The output terminals are designed to serve dual purposes: they function as output terminals for driving non-linear circuit elements during normal operation, and simultaneously serve as input terminals for receiving configuration data during initialization. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated configuration pins, thereby reducing overall pin count while maintaining full configuration capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the configuration data reception function with the existing output terminal structure. By combining these two functions into the same physical terminals, the patent reduces the number of separate components needed, directly addressing the contradiction between configuration capability and device complexity.
2Device complexity
If output terminals are used for both operating and configuration purposes, then pin count is reduced, but signal interference may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic switching between configuration mode and normal operation mode. During configuration initialization, the output terminals receive configuration data; after configuration is complete, the terminals switch to driving the non-linear circuit elements. This time-division multiplexing prevents simultaneous signal conflicts and ensures reliable operation for both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of the output terminals' functionality based on operational state. The control circuit dynamically switches the terminals between configuration reception mode and output driving mode, allowing the same physical pins to adapt their function according to the initialization phase versus normal operation phase, thereby avoiding signal interference.
3Device complexity
If configuration data is transferred through output terminals, then pin count is reduced, but normal operation of non-linear circuit elements may be interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs configuration data transfer during the initialization phase before the non-linear circuit elements are activated for normal operation. By completing the configuration setup in advance during initialization, the system ensures that subsequent normal operation can proceed continuously without interruption or interference from configuration signal transfer.
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 enables configuration data transfer without interfering with the normal operation of the non-linear circuit elements, reducing the number of pins required and simplifying the configuration process, while avoiding unnecessary light emission during data transfer.
Implementation Method 1
a measuring circuit coupled to the output terminal, the measuring circuit being configured to sense on the output terminal a signal value outside an operating regime of the non-linear circuit element
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit includes an output terminal to be coupled to a light-emitting diode, an output circuit coupled to the output terminal, the output circuit being configured to supply an operating signal to the light-emitting diode, a measuring circuit coupled to the output terminal and a control circuit coupled to the measuring circuit. The measuring circuit is configured to sense on the output terminal a signal value outside an operating regime of the light-emitting diode, the signal value being a voltage below a forward voltage of the light-emitting diode or a current below a threshold current of the light-emitting diode. The control circuit is configured to configure at least one function of the integrated circuit when the signal value as sensed by the measuring circuit corresponds to a voltage below the forward voltage of the light-emitting diode or a current below the threshold current of the light-emitting diode.