Digital potentiometer including output buffer
US7005837B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 26, 2003 |
| Grant date | Feb 28, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 26, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH10D89/00
Abstract
A digital potentiometer is disclosed that includes first, second, and third signal terminals. A chain of series-connected impedance elements with multiple tap points is connected between the first and second signal terminals. A plurality of first switching devices are each connected to a respective one of the multiple tap points and to an internal wiper node. A configurable output stage is connected between the internal wiper node and the third signal terminal. The configurable output stage includes a buffer and a second switching device. The second switching device is operable to bypass the buffer. A switching circuit controls switching of the first switching devices. The switching circuit includes a Gray-code counter, a Gray-code decoder, and a make-before-break circuit that controls the timing of the switching of the wiper switches.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.