High resolution fast diode clamped comparator

摘要

An electronic comparator circuit (10) adapted for implementation as an integrated circuit semiconductor device provides high resolution and high speed performance. The circuit comprises a first differential amplifier (12) with clamping diodes (50, 52) that allow a fast response; a source- follower stage (14) connected to the first differential amplifier for buffering its output to enable it to be broadbanded; a second differential amplifier (16) driven by the source- follower stage for handling large signal swings while providing additional gain, a level shift stage (18) for driving the output stage in a class A-B mode, and a cascode output stage (20) which provides increased circuit gain and an output signal which ranges from the positive supply voltage (V.sub.DD) to the negative supply voltage (V.sub. SS).