A 4:1 time-division multiplexer IC for bit rates up to 6 Gbit/s based on a standard bipolar technology

A 4:1 time-division multiplexer (MUX) IC for future communication systems is described which can be operated up to 6 Gb/s at a supply voltage of 5 V. It was fabricated in a silicon planar technology similar to current production technologies with rather conservative 2-/spl mu/m design rules but without needing poly-silicon emitter and super self-aligned processes. The high operating speed was mainly achieved by using a two-stage circuit concept and by careful optimization.