A multi-gigahertz, Josephson flash A/D converter with a pipelined encoder using large-dynamic-range current-latch comparators

The design of a multigigahertz 4-b A/D converter with a pipelined encoder is presented. A wideband and large dynamic range comparator serves as basic building block for both the quantizer and the encoder, which simplifies the design. The design of the comparator and the building of the quantizer and the encoder with the comparator circuits are discussed. Simulation and initial test results are presented, and the possibility of adapting the design to high-T/sub c/ circuit is discussed.