Semiconductor Device Multiplexer Voltage Control GIDL Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing semiconductor devices face significant gate-induced-drain-leakage (GIDL) issues due to the use of power control signals that keep stack MOS transistors consistently on or off, leading to high power consumption.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a multiplexer and transistors configured to receive different reference voltage signals, adjusting the voltage levels to minimize GIDL by using a lower reference voltage when the transistors are turned off, thereby reducing leakage currents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If power control signals keep stack MOS transistors consistently on or off, then device operation is simplified, but gate-induced-drain-leakage increases and power consumption rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the control signal voltage level adjustable rather than fixed. The multiplexer dynamically selects between different reference voltage levels (first reference voltage and second reference voltage) based on operational requirements, allowing the system to adapt between high-performance mode and low-power mode, thereby reducing leakage current while maintaining operational flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage level parameter of the control signal by providing multiple reference voltage levels. The first reference voltage level is used when high performance is needed, while the second reference voltage level (lower than the first) is used when power consumption needs to be reduced. This parameter change directly addresses the contradiction by allowing optimization of power consumption without sacrificing the ability to operate when needed
2Loss of energy
If a lower reference voltage is used when transistors are turned off, then leakage currents are minimized, but device complexity increases due to multiplexer and additional transistors
Solution Approach 1:
The multiplexer serves multiple functions: it selects between different reference voltage levels, controls the voltage supplied to the stack MOS transistors, and enables both high-performance and low-power operational modes. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing significant benefits in power consumption reduction and operational flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The multiplexer acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the reference voltage sources and the stack MOS transistors. It intelligently selects which reference voltage level to apply based on operational requirements, thereby reducing leakage currents while maintaining controlled operation. The additional transistors in the multiplexer structure serve as control elements that enable this intelligent voltage selection
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor device includes a first transistor, a second transistor and a multiplexer. The first transistor is controlled by a first control signal. The second transistor is coupled in series with the first transistor, and is controlled by a first voltage signal. The multiplexer is configured to generate the first voltage signal according to the first control signal.