IC Power-Up Mode Selection Using Supply Voltage Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated circuit devices face challenges in efficiently choosing a functioning mode at power-up with a reduced number of mode pins, especially when powered by multiple supply voltages, as existing methods require dedicated mode selection pins or complex timing sequences for mode selection.
Innovation Solution
The integrated circuit employs an internal control circuit that can operate with one or multiple supply voltages, using converters to generate self-supply voltages for distinct blocks, which sense mode pin values to determine the functioning mode based on the applied supply voltages, allowing mode selection with a reduced number of mode pins and optional waiting for additional supply voltages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated mode pins are used to detect external loads and choose functioning modes, then mode selection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mode selection function with the existing power supply voltage detection mechanism. The internal control circuit uses the same voltage detection paths to determine both the supply voltage level and the functioning mode, eliminating the need for separate mode pins. This merging of functions reduces device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal control circuit is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting supply voltage levels, determining functioning modes, and controlling power distribution. By making the control circuit universal and multi-functional, the patent eliminates dedicated mode pins while preserving full mode selection capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple supply voltages are applied with specific time sequences to select functioning modes, then mode selection capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The internal control circuit automatically detects the supply voltage levels and determines the appropriate functioning mode without requiring external timing control. The system serves itself by autonomously interpreting the voltage configuration and selecting the correct mode, eliminating the need for users to manage complex timing sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses changes in voltage parameters (presence, level, or combination of supply voltages) as the basis for mode selection. Instead of requiring precise timing sequences, the system responds to voltage parameter states, making operation simpler and more intuitive for users.
3Measurement precision
If mode pins are used to detect external connections, then mode detection accuracy is improved, but hardware requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The existing voltage detection circuitry is made multi-functional to serve both power supply detection and mode detection purposes. The same internal control circuit that monitors supply voltages also interprets mode pin states, eliminating the need for additional dedicated detection hardware while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the mode detection function with the voltage detection function in the internal control circuit. By combining these functions and using shared hardware resources, the patent reduces the total quantity of hardware components while preserving accurate mode detection capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is for choosing a mode out of a set of functioning modes of an integrated circuit (IC) device powered from different supply voltages from respective supply nodes. The IC device may include a mode pin for determining a functioning mode of the device, an internal control circuit coupled to the supply nodes and to the mode pin for sensing an electrical value on the mode pin and to start the IC device in a respective functioning mode depending on the supply node that is powered first. The method may include identifying the different supply voltage that first exceeds a threshold voltage, when the internal control circuit is powered, sensing the electrical value on the mode pin, and powering circuits of the IC device from the different supply voltage that first exceeded the threshold voltage and starting the device in a functioning mode determined by a value of the electrical value sensed on the mode pin and by the different supply voltage that first exceeded the voltage threshold.