Signal transmission system and method of operation

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Accordingly, a need has arisen for a signal transmission system and method which substantially eliminates problems and disadvantages associated with prior solutions.
In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, the signal transmission system and method of operation are presented that allow for the transmission of signals over large distances carrying large line capacitances that are not susceptible to the errors associated with prior systems and methods of operation.
According to one embodiment of the present invention, a signal transmission system is provided that comprises a signal transmitter circuit operable to receive an input signal and generate a steady state current and an active current responsive to the value of the input signal.
The transmitter circuit is coupled to a transmission line which is coupled to a receiver circuit.
The receiver circuit comprises a current mirror and a current source coupled in such a manner as to sense the current received from the transmission circuit and to create an output voltage having a value dependent upon whether or not the transmission circuit transmitted the steady state current or the active current.
According to a further embodiment of the present invention, a line booster and line discharge circuit is also provided in the transmission circuit.
The line booster and line discharge circuit is coupled to the input signal and to the transmission line and is operable to provide a boost of current into the transmission line for a predetermined period of time when the line is transitioning from a low to a high logic level.
The booster and discharge circuit is further operable to discharge charge from the transmission line for a predetermined period of time when the signal on the transmission line is transitioning from a high to a low logic level.