Parallel Amplifier Offset Calibration Across Temperature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Amplifier calibration across multiple temperatures within a manufacturing facility is time-consuming and expensive due to intrinsic and package stress-related offset issues, which require multiple calibrations or continuous adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for amplifier calibration that involves digitally performing offset calibration on a second amplifier coupled in parallel with the first amplifier, using a digital control device to generate a calibration code and adjust the second amplifier to reduce temperature-based offsets at multiple temperatures, allowing for simultaneous signal amplification and calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If amplifier calibration is performed at multiple temperatures within a manufacturing facility, then temperature-based offsets are reduced, but calibration time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing offset calibration on the second amplifier while the first amplifier is still amplifying signals. The calibration is prepared and executed in advance during idle periods or overlapping time windows, so that when full calibration is needed, the work is already partially complete. This reduces the total calibration time required at the manufacturing facility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action by having the first amplifier continuously amplify input signals while the second amplifier undergoes calibration. Instead of stopping all amplifier operations for calibration, the system allows one amplifier to work while another is being calibrated, ensuring that signal amplification continues without interruption while still achieving temperature-based offset reduction.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple calibrations are performed to address package stress related offset, then offset accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the calibration process by dividing amplifiers into multiple units (first amplifier and second amplifier) that can be calibrated at different times and under different conditions. This segmentation allows the manufacturing facility to perform calibrations in parallel or during idle periods, reducing the need for expensive repeated calibration cycles on a single amplifier and lowering overall manufacturing costs while maintaining accuracy.
3Manufacturing precision
If amplifier calibration is performed continuously across temperature range, then temperature-based offset is reduced, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by scheduling calibration operations at specific intervals or during predetermined time windows rather than continuously. The second amplifier is calibrated periodically while the first amplifier handles signal amplification, allowing the system to achieve temperature-based offset reduction without constantly interrupting production. This periodic calibration approach maintains manufacturing precision while preserving overall productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a method for amplifier calibration and an amplifier system are described. In one embodiment, a method for amplifier calibration involves amplifying an input signal using a first amplifier connected between an input terminal and an output terminal to generate an output signal and digitally performing offset calibration on a second amplifier coupled in parallel with the first amplifier between the input terminal and the output terminal while amplifying the input signal using the first amplifier. Other embodiments are also described.