Programmable Level Translator With Booster Stage for Latch Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
As semiconductor device geometries shrink, the cross-coupled latch architecture in Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) fails to resolve itself due to inadequate drive levels, especially when dealing with decreasing logic core voltages and varying I/O interface voltage magnitudes, leading to inefficient level translation between the logic core and I/O interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A programmable level translator is introduced, featuring a booster stage that augments the drive level by activating additional pull-up circuitry when the I/O interface voltage falls below a threshold, ensuring proper voltage translation across a wide range of power supplies and maintaining compatibility between logic core and I/O interface voltages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the cross-coupled latch architecture is used for level translation, then the structure is simple and supports wide voltage range, but the latch fails to resolve itself due to inadequate drive level when logic core voltage decreases
Solution Approach 1:
A booster stage is introduced as an intermediary component between the cross-coupled latch and the output. This booster stage receives the weak feedback signal from the latch and amplifies it to provide adequate drive level for reliable latch resolution, while the latch itself maintains its simple cross-coupled structure for wide voltage support
Solution Approach 2:
The level translator is constructed as a composite structure combining two functional blocks: the cross-coupled latch (providing voltage adaptability) and the booster stage (providing drive strength). Each block is optimized for its specific function, and their combination resolves the contradiction between simplicity/adaptability and reliability
2Productivity
If the logic core geometry is shrunk to increase device density, then the integration level increases, but the threshold voltage decreases causing inadequate drive level
Solution Approach 1:
The level translator function is segmented into two independent modules: the cross-coupled latch that handles voltage level adaptation, and the booster stage that handles signal drive strength. This segmentation allows the logic core to be shrunk for higher density while the booster stage compensates for the reduced drive capability
Solution Approach 2:
The booster stage dynamically adjusts its operation based on the logic core voltage level. When logic core voltage is high (1.8V), the booster operates in one mode; when logic core voltage is low (1.0V), the booster adjusts its parameters to provide sufficient drive level, thereby compensating for the effects of geometry scaling
3Device complexity
If the I/O interface voltage is reduced to match logic core voltage, then the voltage translation requirement decreases, but the support for wide range I/O interfaces is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The level translator employs dynamic control mechanisms where the booster stage is selectively activated based on the I/O interface voltage level. When I/O voltage is high (3.3V or 2.5V), the booster is activated to provide strong drive. When I/O voltage is low (1.8V or 1.0V), the booster operation is adjusted or deactivated. This dynamic behavior maintains I/O interface compatibility across wide voltage ranges while adapting to different logic core voltages
Data Source
AI summary
A level translator includes a programmable booster stage that augments the drive level of the level translator under certain conditions. The booster stage is programmably activated. e.g., via a memory cell or control bit, and augments operation of the pull-up stages of a cross-coupled latch within the level translator. When the voltage levels at the high voltage portion of the level translator are reduced below a threshold voltage, the booster stage is activated to maintain proper operation of the level translator despite the reduced voltage levels.