Integrated circuit beta compensator for external interface circuitry
US6812744B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 28, 2002 |
| Grant date | Nov 2, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 16, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH03F3/343
- WIPO fieldBasic communication processes
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus for interfacing an integrated circuit with external circuitry includes a transistor having an emitter coupled to a node for receiving a control current (IP) from the integrated circuit. A beta compensator disposed within the integrated circuit provides a compensating current (IM) to the node. The compensating current IM is proportional to a base current (IB) of the transistor. A method of interfacing the integrated circuit with external circuitry includes the step of providing the control current (IP) from the integrated circuit to a node coupled to a transistor emitter. A compensating current (IM) is provided to the node in response to the transistor base current (IB). The net node current provided to the emitter is IP+IB so that the transistor collector current is substantially the same as the control current. The transistor collector is coupled to the external circuitry.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.