Programmable Bandgap Reference Voltage Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reference voltage supply circuits in integrated circuits are susceptible to disruptions and fluctuations due to changes in input power supply, temperature, and load conditions, leading to instability and operational errors in electronic components.
Innovation Solution
A reference voltage supply system that includes a bandgap circuit, an amplifier, and a series resistor, along with a shunt transistor circuit, which provides a self-starting programmable output voltage capable of maintaining stability across various conditions, including temperature and power supply variations, by using proportional-to-absolute-temperature (PTAT) and complementary-to-absolute-temperature (CTAT) currents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a predetermined reference voltage circuit is implemented with fixed component values, then the circuit structure is simple, but the output voltage becomes susceptible to disruptions from power supply changes, temperature variations, and load changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a programmable reference voltage circuit where component values (resistors, capacitors, transistors) can be dynamically adjusted through digital control signals. This allows the circuit to adapt its output voltage in real-time to compensate for power supply variations, temperature changes, and load conditions, resolving the contradiction between simple structure and voltage stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the circuit components based on detected conditions. By varying resistance, capacitance, and transistor gate voltages in response to environmental and operational changes, the circuit maintains stable output voltage while keeping the overall structure relatively simple.
2Reliability
If temperature compensation mechanisms are added to maintain stable reference voltage, then the output voltage stability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a programmable control system that serves multiple functions: it adjusts for temperature variations, compensates for power supply changes, adapts to different load conditions, and provides programmable output voltage selection. This single multi-functional system replaces what would otherwise require separate dedicated circuits for each compensation function, maintaining reliability while controlling overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference voltage circuit incorporates self-diagnosis and self-adjustment capabilities through the programmable control system. The circuit automatically detects deviations in temperature, power supply voltage, and load conditions, and autonomously adjusts its parameters to maintain stable output, eliminating the need for external manual intervention or complex external control systems.
3Reliability
If separate startup circuitry is implemented to provide bias voltage, then the power-up operation is reliable, but the device complexity and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the startup/bias voltage generation function with the main programmable reference voltage circuit. The same programmable control system that manages voltage stability during operation also handles the power-up sequencing and bias generation, eliminating the need for separate startup circuitry and reducing overall component count while maintaining reliable power-up operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference voltage circuit is designed to self-start and self-bias upon power application. The programmable control system automatically initializes the appropriate bias voltages and configures the circuit components during power-up without requiring external startup circuitry, achieving reliable power-up operation through self-service functionality.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system ensures a stable reference voltage supply, reducing operational errors and eliminating the need for separate startup circuitry, while providing a programmable output that can withstand fluctuations, ensuring reliable operation of components like processors and memory devices.
Implementation Method 1
by using proportional-to-absolute-temperature (PTAT) and complementary-to-absolute-temperature (CTAT) currents
Implementation Method 2
by using proportional-to-absolute-temperature (PTAT) and complementary-to-absolute-temperature (CTAT) currents
Implementation Method 3
the amplifier is configured to perform an error correction amplification
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments may include a method, system and apparatus for providing a reference voltage supply. A series resistor is provided between a power supply and a bandgap circuit coupled to an amplifier. A shunt transistor circuit is operatively coupled to the series resistor. A programmable output voltage is provided based upon the shunt transistor circuit and a first value of the series resistor.