Level-Shifting Interface Circuit for Mixed-Voltage Signal Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Digital subsystems with different voltage ranges for logic signals face communication challenges due to varying voltage levels, necessitating level shifters to translate voltages between systems.
Innovation Solution
An integrated circuit with a processor and a driver circuit that selectively level shifts signals received at an external input terminal to an external output terminal, utilizing a multiplexer and level shifter to adapt voltage levels for communication between low and high voltage subsystems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different digital subsystems use different voltage ranges for logic signals, then each subsystem can operate with its own optimized voltage levels, but communication between subsystems becomes incompatible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a level shifter circuit as an intermediary component between digital subsystems with different voltage levels. The level shifter receives signals from a first digital subsystem operating at one voltage range and translates them to the voltage range required by a second digital subsystem, enabling compatible communication without requiring both subsystems to operate at the same voltage levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The level shifter dynamically changes the voltage level parameter of logic signals to enable communication between subsystems with different voltage requirements. By transforming the voltage parameter while preserving the logic state information, the system maintains adaptability across different voltage domains while ensuring reliable communication.
2Reliability
If a level shifter translates voltage levels between digital subsystems, then communication compatibility is achieved, but additional circuit complexity is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The level shifter circuit is designed to handle multiple voltage level translations and can serve different digital subsystems with varying voltage requirements. By creating a universal level shifting solution that can adapt to different voltage domains, the patent reduces the need for multiple specialized circuits, thereby managing complexity while maintaining broad communication compatibility.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes an integrated circuit, which includes an input terminal, a second terminal to communicate with circuitry external to the integrated circuit, a multiplexer, a level shifter and a processor. The multiplexer is adapted to selectively couple the input terminal, the level shifter and the second output terminal together.