Programmable Reference Signal Selection Circuit for ADC Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current integrated circuits face inaccuracies in precision measurements due to voltage drops caused by parasitic resistance in the ground path, affecting the bandgap reference voltage and on-chip ground voltage, leading to errors in signal measurements.
Innovation Solution
A programmable reference signal selection circuit is implemented to maintain a constant reference voltage by adjusting either the first voltage or the ground voltage, using a multiplexer to select between on-chip and off-chip signals, and a bandgap reference voltage generator to compensate for parasitic resistance-induced errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current flows through the ground path through the bandgap reference voltage generator, then the reference voltage can be generated, but voltage drop occurs across parasitic resistance causing measurement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary compensation mechanism that measures the actual ground voltage and adjusts the reference voltage accordingly. A ground voltage sensing circuit measures the actual ground potential, and a compensation circuit calculates and applies the necessary correction to the bandgap reference voltage, effectively mediating between the parasitic voltage drop and the ADC measurement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback loop where the actual ground voltage is continuously monitored and used to adjust the reference voltage. The ground voltage sensing circuit provides real-time feedback about the ground potential, which is then used by the compensation circuit to dynamically correct the reference voltage, ensuring accurate measurements despite varying current conditions.
2Measurement precision
If a ground reference voltage is brought on to a chip through an input/output pad, then reference voltage can be provided, but parasitic resistance in metal routes causes voltage drop and measurement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediary sensing and compensation circuits that act as mediators between the external ground reference and the internal measurement process. The ground voltage sensing circuit serves as an intermediary to detect actual ground conditions, and the compensation circuit acts as another intermediary to correct the reference voltage, thereby eliminating the need for complex external calibration equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the integrated circuit to self-correct for ground voltage errors using internal resources. The ground voltage sensing circuit and compensation circuit work together within the chip to automatically measure, calculate, and apply corrections to the reference voltage, allowing the system to self-service without requiring external calibration equipment or complex additional circuitry.
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
This approach ensures accurate signal measurements by maintaining a stable reference voltage, reducing errors and improving the precision of voltage measurements in integrated circuits.
Implementation Method 1
Metal routes used to carry signals in the chip have a nominal parasitic resistance. When current flows through the metal routes, a voltage drop occurs across the parasitic resistance.
Implementation Method 2
A programmable reference signal selection circuit is implemented to maintain a constant reference voltage by adjusting either the first voltage or the ground voltage, using a multiplexer to select between on-chip and off-chip signals
Implementation Method 3
In order to determine the actual value of a signal, the measured value of a signal is compared to a reference signal having a known value. The difference between the known value of the reference signal and the measured value is used to determine the actual value of the signal.
Data Source
AI summary
A processing system measures an input voltage received at an input of an analog circuit, such as an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), where the input voltage is measured by comparing the input voltage to a reference voltage. The reference voltage is determined by the difference between a first voltage and a ground voltage. The processing system includes a programmable reference signal selection circuit to maintain the reference voltage at a constant level.