Programmable oscillator with power down feature and frequency adjustment

An improved on-chip programmable oscillator comprising:

• an input node;
• an output node operable for attaching to a load;
• a first means coupled between the input and output node and operable for setting the circuit delay and the frequency of oscillation;
• a second means connected to the input node and operable for causing instability at the input node so as to initiate oscillation;
• a third means responsive to an enabling signal and operable for supplying a control signal to the second means;
• a feedback path interconnecting the output node to the first means and operable for ensuring the continuity of the oscillation;
• a fourth means operable to form a single conductive path between the first means and ground;
• said fourth means being responsive to an enabling signal and operable to disrupt the conductive path periodically;
• and
• a pull-up electrical circuitry being connected to the output node and operable to adjust the voltage level at said output node so that a relatively small overdrive voltage is being applied to the load during a first instance of circuit operation following a larger overdrive voltage.