Mid-Range LDO Regulator With Internal Reference and HGND Decoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor devices require different voltage levels for core and input/output devices, and existing technologies struggle to maintain a stable Safe Operating Area (SOA) without external reference inputs, especially in power-down modes, while also managing current variations and capacitor density effectively.
Innovation Solution
A mid-range Low Dropout (LDO) voltage regulator with sinking and sourcing capability, incorporating a Class-A and Class-AB based amplifier, Voltage Reference Generator, Power-Down Control Unit, and high-density decoupling capacitors, which dynamically tracks IO and core power, maintains voltage references, and ensures SOA by providing sourcing and sinking currents, even in the absence of external reference inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external reference inputs are used to maintain stable SOA, then voltage stability is improved, but device complexity and external component requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The LDO regulator generates its own voltage reference internally through a reference generator circuit, eliminating the need for external reference inputs. The system serves itself by creating the reference voltage needed for stable operation, thereby reducing external component requirements while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal reference generator serves multiple functions: it provides the voltage reference for the error amplifier, establishes the safe operating area boundaries, and enables operation in both active and power-down modes without requiring different external references, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
2Area of stationary object
If high-density decoupling capacitors are used to reduce layout area, then area is reduced, but capacitor density and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements decoupling capacitors in the high-edge ground domain rather than the traditional ground domain, utilizing an additional voltage dimension. This allows high-density capacitor structures to be implemented without increasing the planar layout area, as the capacitors operate in a different voltage space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the decoupling capacitors by connecting them to the high-edge ground potential instead of standard ground. This parameter change enables the use of high-density capacitor structures that can achieve the required decoupling function in a smaller area while managing manufacturing complexity through standardized high-density capacitor designs.
3Use of energy by moving object
If LDO operates in power-down mode to reduce energy consumption, then energy usage is reduced, but maintaining stable voltage reference without external inputs becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The LDO regulator dynamically adapts its operation between active and power-down modes while maintaining voltage reference stability. The internal reference generator and error amplifier are designed to remain functional in power-down mode, allowing the system to switch states dynamically without losing the ability to maintain a stable voltage reference.
Solution Approach 2:
In power-down mode, the LDO continues to generate its own voltage reference internally, serving itself without requiring external reference inputs. This self-service capability ensures that even in low-power mode, the system can maintain stable voltage regulation for essential circuits, balancing energy consumption with reliability.
4Reliability
If amplifier sourcing and sinking capability is increased to manage current variations, then current control is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The error amplifier uses feedback from the output voltage to dynamically adjust its sourcing and sinking current capability. By continuously monitoring the output and comparing it to the internal reference, the amplifier automatically modulates its current drive capability, improving current variation control without requiring complex external circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The error amplifier is designed with universal sourcing and sinking capability, allowing it to perform both current sourcing and sinking functions with a single circuit configuration. This multi-functionality improves current control flexibility while avoiding the need for separate amplifiers or complex switching networks, thereby managing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A middle-range (mid) low dropout (LDO) voltage has both sinking and sourcing current capability. The mid LDO can provide a voltage reference in active mode and power mode for core only design to work in a Safe Operating Area (SOA). The output of mid LDO can track TO power and/or core power dynamically. The mid LDO can comprise a voltage reference generator and a power-down controller connected to an amplifier, which output is connected to a decoupling capacitor. The provision of a high ground signal allows the mid LDO provide the sinking and sourcing currents.