Patent ID: 6501333
Filing Date: 2002-12-31
Classification: H03F

Abstract:
A differential amplifier circuit comprising:an amplifying section for generating at an output node an amplified output dependent on a differential input voltage, said amplifying section including first and second current branches, each including a respective transistor, said transistors having their bases connected together and parallel collector paths, an output stage comprising a current sinking element having a control node, and a controllable path connected to the output node, and a control element having a control node connected to the collector path of the second current branch and a controllable path connected to the control node of the current sinking element; and a current limiting section comprising a current detecting element connected to detect the current through the current sinking element and arranged to drive a current limiting element when the detected current exceeds a predetermined threshold to inject current at the collector of the transistor in the first current branch.