Tai T Ngo

US Patent:

58782699, Mar 2, 1999

Filed:

Mar 27, 1992

Appl. No.:

7/859347

Inventors:

John K. Eitrheim - Garland TX
Richard B. Reis - Garland TX
Steve McMahan - Richardson TX
Lawrence H. Hudepohl - Richardson TX
Douglas Ewing Duschatko - Plano TX
Tai Dinh Ngo - Arlington TX
Jeffrey Byrne - Garland TX

Assignee:

National Semiconductor Corporation - Santa Clara CA

International Classification:

G06F 900

US Classification:

39580042

Abstract:

A microprocessor is implemented using sense amplifiers to replace CMOS logic circuits, in order to provide low voltage, high frequency switching. The input node of the sense amplifier is maintained at a voltage just above or just below their trip-point of one inverter in order to obtain high-speed switching. Bench mark tests have shown that a microprocessor operating at 2. 7 volts may obtain a frequency of 20 MHz and while the same microprocessor may operate at 5. 5 volts and 40 MHz.