Patent ID: 6100716
Filing Date: 2000-08-08
Classification: H03K

Abstract:
An integrated circuit comprising:data output means to which first and second operating voltages are fed, the data output means comprising a first transistor circuit for providing output voltage between first and second circuit nodes thereof in response to at least one input signal;a detector to which a third operating voltage is fed, the detector being coupled to the data output means, the detector comprising an impedance circuit and a detection circuit which is coupled to the impedance circuit, the third operating voltage being fed to the detection circuit via the impedance circuit, the detection circuit including a second transistor circuit which operates in response to the output voltage of the first transistor circuit;the impedance circuit comprising an impedance element connected between first and second terminals of the impedance circuit, the first terminal being for receiving the third operating voltage; andthe second transistor circuit being connected to third, fourth and fifth terminals of the detection circuit, the third terminal being connected to the second terminal of the impedance circuit, the fourth and fifth terminals being connected to the first and second circuit nodes of the first transistor circuit, the output being provided from the second terminal of the impedance circuit, the detector providing an output indicating an abnormal voltage excursion.