A current-mode CMOS algorithmic analog-to-quaternary converter circuit

Abstract

A current-mode CMOS algorithmic analog-to-quaternary data converter circuit has been realized in a standard polysilicon-gate CMOS technology. This circuit accepts an analog current input and uses current comparators and pass gates to develop a set of quaternary, base-four, output currents. A single type of converter cell may be cascaded to the desired number of quaternary output digits. The reference current that defines the full scale input range may be set externally. This circuit is input-output compatible with other previously described VLSI-compatible current-mode CMOS quaternary threshold logic and memory circuits. The current-mode CMOS algorithmic analog-to-quaternary data converter circuit is presented, and its experimental and simulated performances are described.<>