A simple three-terminal IC bandgap reference

A new configuration for realization of a stabilized bandgap voltage is described. The new two-transistor circuit uses collector current sensing to eliminate errors due to base current. Because the stabilized voltage appears at a high impedance point, the application to circuits with higher output voltage is simplified. Incorporation of the new two-transistor cell in a three-terminal 2.5-V monolithic reference is described. The complete circuit is outlined in functional detail together with analytical methods used in the design. The analytical results include sensitivity coefficients, gain and frequency response parameters, and biasing for optimum temperature performance. The performance of the monolithic circuit, which includes temperature coefficients of 5 ppm//spl deg/C over the military temperature range, is reported.