Semiconductor Decoder Power Control Circuit for Standby Current Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional semiconductor devices with antenna switch circuits face challenges in downsizing due to the large number of control terminals, leading to increased power consumption and difficulty in layout design on printed circuit boards, as they require multiple input terminals to manage RF connections efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor device incorporating a decoder and a power control circuit that detects specific input signal combinations to control power supply to the decoder, reducing standby current consumption by disconnecting power when not in use, thereby minimizing the number of input terminals needed and enhancing power efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a decoder is used to reduce the number of control terminals, then the number of input terminals is reduced, but power consumption increases due to continuous operation of the decoder
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the power supply to the decoder conditional rather than continuous. The power control circuit dynamically adjusts the power supply state based on the operation mode, turning power on only when needed and turning it off during standby mode, thus resolving the contradiction between reduced terminal count and continuous power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the power supply parameter from a constant state to a variable state that depends on the operation mode. By introducing a power control circuit that modifies the power supply condition based on detected input signal combinations, the system achieves both reduced terminal complexity and lowered power consumption during standby
2Device complexity
If GaAs devices are used for the decoder, then miniaturization and cost reduction are achieved, but standby current cannot be reduced due to continuous power supply requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the power supply dynamic by introducing a power control circuit that adjusts power delivery based on operational state. This allows the GaAs decoder to be miniaturized while enabling standby current reduction through conditional power supply, resolving the contradiction between device size and energy loss
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic action by cycling the power supply to the decoder based on operation mode transitions. Power is supplied during active operations and interrupted during standby periods, creating a periodic power delivery pattern that reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining the miniaturized GaAs device architecture
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control terminals are used for RF switch operation, then connection control capability is improved, but layout design difficulty increases due to occupied area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the decoder function with the power control function into an integrated system. By combining these functions and using the decoded signal combinations to control power supply, the system reduces the number of separate control terminals needed while maintaining connection control capability and reducing layout area
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the input terminals universal by using them for both signal input and power control indication. The same terminals that receive RF control signals also provide the information needed to control power supply, eliminating the need for separate control terminals and reducing overall layout area
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor device includes a decoder decoding input signals and generating a control signal from decoded input signals, and a power control circuit detecting a given combination of the input signals applied to the decoder and controlling a supply of power to the decoder.