Patent ID: 6320405
Filing Date: 2001-11-20
Classification: H03K

Abstract:
A circuit configuration for switching a load, based on a starting signal, comprising:a plurality of logic circuits;a first MOSFET output stage controlled by one of the logic circuits;a second downstream MOSFET output stage;an input line connected to the one of the logic circuits, wherein an input voltage is applied over the input line to the one of the input logic circuits, the second downstream MOSFET output stage connected in series with the first MOSFET output stage and controlled by another one of the logic circuits, a power supply voltage of the second downstream MOSFET output stage being supplied over the first MOSFET output stage;a connecting line provided between the logic circuits, the load being connected downstream from the first MOSFET output stage and from the second downstream MOSFET output stage;an arrangement for monitoring the power supply voltage of the second downstream MOSFET output stage and for preventing an activation of the first MOSFET output stage when the power supply voltage is below a predetermined value, the arrangement for monitoring being activated by the starting signal;a second line connecting the first MOSFET output stage and the second downstream MOSFET output stage;an arrangement for varying the input voltage when the first MOSFET output stage is activated based on the starting signal; andan arrangement for activating the second downstream MOSFET output stage, wherein the arrangement for activating includes an arrangement for preventing an activation of the second downstream MOSFET output stage when the power supply voltage exceeds a threshold potential before an arrival of the starting signal is detected, the arrangement for preventing the activation of the second downstream MOSFET output stage being connected to the connecting line and to the second line.