Programmable I/O Circuit for Dynamic Voltage Level Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional input/output circuits are limited in programmability, unable to dynamically adjust voltage levels for input and output signals, and require central processing unit intervention to enable analog and digital signal paths, restricting flexibility and efficiency in communication with external devices.
Innovation Solution
A programmable input/output circuit that allows independent and dynamic control of input and output voltage levels, featuring a programmable output driver and input comparator with user-selectable reference voltages, enabling flexible signal processing and dynamic switching without CPU intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional CMOS input/output circuits are used with fixed voltage levels, then the circuit structure is simple, but the adaptability to different voltage levels is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage level selection by allowing the I/O circuit to switch between different voltage configurations (e.g., 3.3V, 2.5V, 1.8V, 1.2V) based on external control signals. The output driver can be configured to operate at different voltage levels, and the input comparator can detect signals at various voltage thresholds, making the circuit adaptable to different voltage standards without requiring multiple dedicated circuits for each voltage level.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the I/O circuit by introducing programmable voltage selection capabilities. The output driver's voltage level and the input comparator's reference voltage can be adjusted according to different operating modes, allowing the same hardware to function across multiple voltage domains. This parameter adjustability resolves the contradiction between maintaining simple circuit structure and achieving broad voltage level adaptability.
2Productivity
If CPU intervention is required to enable analog and digital signal paths, then the control logic is simple, but the processing efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality by enabling the I/O circuit to automatically switch between analog and digital signal paths based on pre-configured settings or mode selection bits, without requiring continuous CPU intervention. Once configured, the circuit can autonomously manage signal path switching, freeing the CPU for other tasks and improving overall system efficiency. The control logic includes automatic path selection mechanisms that operate independently of the CPU.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standard CMOS input/output circuits with fixed output levels are used, then the manufacturing is simple, but the programmability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal I/O circuit design that can serve multiple functions and voltage standards through a single integrated structure. The output driver is designed to support multiple voltage levels (e.g., 3.3V, 2.5V, 1.8V, 1.2V) and the input comparator can detect various voltage thresholds, allowing the same hardware to replace multiple dedicated circuits. This multi-functionality achieves high programmability while maintaining manufacturing simplicity, as it eliminates the need to fabricate separate circuits for each voltage standard.
Data Source
AI summary
A programmable input/output (I/O) circuit includes an output buffer coupled between an output signal and an I/O pad and an input comparator coupled between an input signal and the I/O pad. The input comparator includes a first input coupled to the I/O pad. A multiplexor receives a select signal for selecting a first reference voltage from the plurality of reference voltages at a first time and for dynamically selecting a second reference voltage from the plurality of reference voltages at a second time.