Patent ID: 6278326
Filing Date: 2001-08-21
Classification: H03F

Abstract:
A current mirror circuit for providing an output reference signal approximating an input reference signal, said current mirror circuit comprising:a first transistor, a collector of which is connected to said input reference signal, and a base of which is connected to its collector;a second transistor, a collector of which is connected to said output reference signal, and a base of which is connected to said base of said first transistor;a first degeneration resistor coupled to an emitter of said first transistor;a second degeneration resistor coupled to an emitter of said second transistor;a first diode connected in parallel with said first degeneration resistor; anda second diode connected in parallel with said second degeneration resistor; andwherein said first diode and said second diode operate to clamp emitter voltages of said first transistor and said second transistor to substantially prevent saturation of said current mirror circuit.