Mode-Responsive Data Amplifier for Test-Mode Swing Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data amplifying circuits in semiconductor devices face challenges in adjusting output signal swing levels between normal and test modes, requiring cumbersome resistor adjustments and increased costs to achieve valid signal reception for test equipment.
Innovation Solution
A data amplifying circuit with a mode responding circuit that supplies additional source current to the source node in response to a mode selection signal, allowing for controllable swing levels by alternately enabling small-swing and full-swing amplifiers, thereby adjusting output signal levels according to operational modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the values of resistors R11 and R12 are increased to enlarge the output swing level, then the output signal swing level is improved for test mode, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase due to burden in adjusting embedded resistor values
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameter (source current) dynamically through a mode selection signal to achieve different output swing levels. Instead of physically adjusting resistor values, the circuit switches between different current supply modes (normal mode with smaller current for small swing, test mode with larger current for large swing), thereby achieving parameter adaptation without structural modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control capability to the previously static resistor-based swing level determination. By using a mode selection signal that dynamically switches the current source operation mode, the output swing level becomes adaptable and changeable based on operational requirements, eliminating the need for manual resistor adjustments.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the current source 15 restricts the source current flowing into source node NS0, then the circuit operates stably in normal mode, but the output signal swing level becomes insufficient for test mode requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static current restriction into a dynamic, controllable feature. The current source can adapt its current supply level based on the operation mode selected, providing stable restricted current for normal operation and sufficient larger current for test mode, thereby resolving the contradiction between stability and swing level sufficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The current source is designed to perform multiple functions: in normal mode it restricts current to maintain stable operation with small swing levels, while in test mode it provides sufficient current for large swing levels required by test equipment. This multi-functionality allows a single circuit to satisfy both operational requirements without separate dedicated circuits.
Data Source
AI summary
A data amplifying circuit for an output driver has a swing level that is controllable according to an operation mode. The data amplifying circuit includes a mode responding circuit supplying an additional source current to a source node of an amplifying circuit in response to a mode selection signal. The mode responding circuit controls the supply of the additional source current in accordance with an operation mode. Another data amplifying circuit of a semiconductor device, according to the invention, includes a small-swing amplifier and a full-swing amplifier. The small-swing amplifier causes a swing level of the output signal to be relatively smaller, while the full-swing amplifier causes the output signal swing level be relatively larger. The small-swing and full-swing amplifiers are alternatively enabled in response to the mode selection signal.