A bandgap reference circuit as may be used in ultra-low current
applications is provided. An exemplary bandgap circuit can be configured
to generate a positive temperature coefficient without the need for a
resistor to offset a negative temperature coefficient. In accordance with
an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a bandgap circuit
comprises a negative temperature coefficient generated from a junction
device and a positive temperature coefficient generated from an FET-based
device. An exemplary junction device can comprise a bipolar, junction
diode or any other device for generating a negative temperature
coefficient, while an exemplary FET-based device comprises a gate-drain
connected device configured to provide a gate-source voltage having a
positive temperature coefficient coupled in series with the bipolar
device. In accordance with another exemplary embodiment, the bandgap
circuit can be configured with a threshold voltage elimination device
comprising a second FET-based device configured to subtract out a
threshold voltage component of the first FET-based device.