Stmicroelectronics Gmbh

William Thies

Nicolas Froidevaux

Chris Lawley

A phase locked loop (PLL) circuit comprising: feedback division circuitry for receiving an output signal, the feedback division circuitry arranged to divide the output signal by a first division factor in a first mode of operation, and a second division factor in a second mode of operation.

Versatile feedback system for phase locked loop architecture

A method produces a semiconductor circuit with an area saving in comparison to conventional circuit layouts. IO cells are arranged with a width multiplied by a factor, but with corresponding reduced height. ESD protection circuitry is included at a reduced rate in comparison to usual arrangements. The space saving is achieved by occupying a semiconductor area that would have been used by ESD circuitry with the IO circuitry. ESD protection is maintained but at different locations.

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Quaix-en-Chartreuse, France

William Thies