RF Switch Driver Level Converter for Triple-Logic Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing voltage level converters in RF switch drivers are limited in their ability to provide a range of output signals suitable for different voltage requirements across various internal blocks, particularly failing to efficiently output logic 1, logic 0, and logic −1 signals effectively, which is crucial for multifunctional and low-power systems with varying supply voltages.
Innovation Solution
A voltage level converter design that includes multiple conversion units and a latch structure using CMOS inverters and N-type transistors to alternately output logic 1, logic 0, and logic −1 signals, capable of receiving input signals and converting them into suitable output voltages, including a full-swing output between ground and negative voltage, and a half-swing output between negative and ground voltages, thereby supporting the requirements of RF switch drivers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional voltage level converter is used, then the circuit structure is simple, but it cannot output multiple voltage levels (logic 1, logic 0, logic -1) required by different internal blocks
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage level converter is designed to perform multiple functions by outputting three different voltage levels (logic 1, logic 0, logic -1) from a single circuit structure. The converter uses five conversion units that can alternatively output different voltage levels based on control signals, allowing one circuit to serve multiple voltage requirements of different internal blocks simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple conversion units are added to output different voltage levels, then voltage adaptability is improved, but chip area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines five conversion units into a single integrated voltage level converter circuit. These conversion units share common components such as the latch structure and power supply connections, merging their functions into one compact unit that provides multiple voltage outputs without requiring separate converter circuits for each voltage level.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter uses dynamic switching mechanisms where the five conversion units can alternatively output different voltage levels based on control signals from the latch. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the same physical circuit to provide different voltage outputs at different times, reducing the need for multiple dedicated circuits and thereby reducing overall chip area.
3Loss of energy
If static current consumption is reduced for low-power operation, then power efficiency is improved, but signal stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The converter employs periodic switching action through the latch structure that controls the five conversion units alternately. This periodic operation allows the circuit to maintain signal stability during active conversion periods while entering low-power states during switching transitions, thereby reducing overall static current consumption without compromising the stability of the output signals when they are actually being produced.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a voltage level converter that includes: a first conversion unit which receives at least one input signal of a logic 1 signal and a logic 0 signal from a signal input terminal and converts the signal; a second conversion unit and a third conversion unit which alternately output a logic −1 signal and the logic 1 signal respectively in accordance with the input signal; a fourth conversion unit and a fifth conversion unit which alternately output the logic −1 signal and the logic 0 signal respectively in accordance with the input signal; and a latch which has a complementary characteristic in which if a first transistor becomes an on-state, then a second transistor becomes an off-state in accordance with the input signal, and performs a positive feedback operation. A drain output of the first transistor is input to the fourth conversion unit. A drain output of the second transistor is input to the fifth conversion unit.