Design & Analysis of a Three-Stage Latched Comparator

A latched comparator is an electronic component that compares two inputs and maintains its output state even if the inputs vary. This characteristic is especially useful for high-speed analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) as it ensures stable output during rapid signal changes. This paper explores various designs of multi-stage latched comparators, which are designed to enhance signal regeneration and reduce kickback noise, a common challenge in comparator circuits. The three- stage comparator presented shows a significant improvement, with a response time reduced to 306 picoseconds, accelerating signal regeneration. Furthermore, this design effectively minimizes kickback noise, which can disrupt circuit performance. These comparator circuits were carefully crafted at the schematic level using the Cadence Virtuoso tool.