Power Minimization in Neural Recording ΔΣ Modulators by Adaptive Back-Gate Voltage Tuning

This letter presents a scalable technique to reduce the power of the analog input stage in neural recording front-ends in Globalfoundries 22 -nm FDSOI. The back-gate voltages are adapted to reduce the threshold voltage and thus allow supply voltage reduction. This adaption increases PVT stability of subthreshold circuits. A comparison to a conventional delta–sigma ADC is drawn and the minimum power point is measured, resulting in 0.7 - $\mu \text{W}$ /channel at 7.2 - $\mu \text{V}$ input-referred noise. Additionally, the transition to smaller technologies promises low-power consumption in the digital domain, by allowing smaller supply voltage and higher integration density.