Method and system for multiple bias current generator circuits that start each other

摘要

A startup circuit for producing a startup current for an integrated circuit device. The startup circuit utilizes a wide channel transistor for producing a subthreshold leakage current. A current mirror is coupled to the wide channel resistor and is configured to receive the subthreshold leakage current and produce a startup current therefrom. The subthreshold leakage current produced by the wide channel transistor is constant with respect to a power supply voltage. The current mirror includes a first transistor diode connected to the wide channel transistor and a second transistor having a gate connected to a gate of the first transistor. Within an integrated circuit device, a plurality of startup circuits are provided, each configured to produce a startup current. A plurality of bias current generators are respectively coupled to the startup circuits to receive the startup currents and generate a bias current therefrom. A distribution circuit is coupled to the startup circuits to distribute the startup current produced by the startup circuits among the startup circuits. The distribution circuit is configured to distribute the startup current among the startup circuits such that a startup current from one of the plurality of startup circuits insures that other ones of the plurality of startup circuits will produce their respective startup currents.