A 3.2 Gb/s 16-Channel Transmitter for Intra-Panel Interfaces, With Independently Controllable Output Swing, Common-Mode Voltage, and Equalization

Abstract

The use of coupled-bias common-mode feedback allows a low-voltage differential signaling driver, implemented in a deep-submicron process, to adjust its output common-mode voltage, as well as the output swing and equalization strength independently. This form of differential signaling driver has been incorporated in a 16-channel transmitter for the timing controller of an intra-panel interface. The flexibility of its output characteristics allows it to accommodate the range of channel characteristics commonly found in the intra-panel interface of an ultra-high-definition display. Fabricated in a 28-nm bulk CMOS process, our 16-channel transmitter occupies 1.39 mm2. Its total power consumption is 203.2 mW with a supply voltage of 1.05 V, running at 3.2 Gb/s with the maximum output swing. Measurements confirm that the transmitter can operate from 0.8 to 3.2 Gb/s with channels that replicate those encountered in an intra-panel interface. The maximum controllable range of the output swing, the output common-mode voltage, and equalization are 216-1072 mVdiff, 291-604 mV, and 0-14.6 dB, respectively.

Keywords

• Low-voltage differential signaling
• driver
• transmitter
• intra-panel interface
• timing controller