The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Feb. 20, 2001
Filed:
Aug. 24, 1999
Carl W. Moreland, Oak Ridge, NC (US);
Michael R. Elliott, Greensboro, NC (US);
Analog Devices, Inc., Norwood, MA (US);
Abstract
High-speed signal translators are provided to convert differential input signals (e.g., ECL signals) to single-ended output signals (e.g., CMOS signals). An exemplary translator is formed with first and second current mirrors, first and second complimentary differential pairs of transistors, a complimentary transistor output stage and first and second current-diverting transistors. The complimentary output stage initially generates the single-ended output signal in response to currents received from the complimentary differential pairs. When the output signal has been established, the current-diverting transistors respond by carrying at least portions of the currents supplied by the complimentary differential pairs. The current-diverting transistors also drive the current mirrors to divert other portions of these currents away from the complimentary output stage. Stored charges in the output stage are accordingly reduced and its response time enhanced. Translator speed is further enhanced with elements associated with the current-diverting transistors that prevent saturation in the current mirrors and the complimentary output stage.