Slew rate enhancement technique for CMOS output buffers

A novel technique for enhancing the slew rate in CMOS amplifiers is described. The slew enhancement is provided by an auxiliary circuit which is activated only during transients. The core amplifier is not stressed with the large transient currents, thus minimising transient power dissipation and also avoiding signal swing problems. A slew rate of 1 V/μs with a 10000pF load capacitance has been achieved, while requiring a quiescent power dissipation of less than 1.5 mW.