A Bootstrapped Domino Logic–Based Schmitt Trigger for Low-Power and Noise-Immune Power System Applications

Abstract

The Schmitt trigger is one of the most important components of electronic systems that are used to monitor and control the power supply's voltage. Using the Schmitt trigger allows to filter out unwanted noise, thus improving the quality of signal. Traditional CMOS-based Schmitt triggers were limited in speed and exhibited excessive leakage power and a degraded performance when operating at lower voltages, thus making them unsuitable for advanced digital circuit applications such as the monitoring and control of the electrical distribution systems. This work presents Bootstrapped Dynamic Logic Schmitt Trigger (BSD-ST) using the FinFET technology of 18nm for high-speed operation, low leakage power, and improved noise immunity when operating in subthreshold voltage conditions. The proposed circuit functions in dual modes - in Schmitt trigger mode and a domino logic gate through a select input. Simulation results using Cadence Virtuoso show a 47MHz switching speed, 0.94nW leakage power, and 25mV hysteresis width. This design is ideal for applications where low power, high speed and tolerance to noise are paramount, including power systems and protection circuits, and devices with low voltages and high noise environments.