Patent ID: 6275096
Filing Date: 2001-08-14
Classification: H02M

Abstract:
A multiple rate charge pump generator system for generating and maintaining the level of a voltage supply generated internally within an integrated circuit, the generator system comprising:a limiter responsive to said voltage supply reaching a first predetermined voltage level to change the state of a first control signal, and responsive to said voltage supply reaching a second predetermined voltage level to change the state of a second control signal;a first pump group having at least one charge pump, on-off switching of said first pump group being determined by the state of said first control signal; anda second pump group having a plurality of charge pumps, said second pump group transferring charge to said voltage supply regardless of the state of said first control signal, on-off switching of said second pump group being determined by the state of said second control signal, said plurality of charge pumps including at least one dual mode charge pump which operates as an active charge pump during an active interval together with other charge pumps of said second pump group, said dual mode charge pump operating as a standby charge pump during a standby interval in which it continues to transfer charge to said voltage supply when other charge pumps of said second pump group are off.