Capture Time Sweep for Data Interface Timing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data transfer across a data interface between a processor and a memory can result in errors due to misalignment of rising and falling edges of clock signals, leading to unreliable reads and writes, especially when total reading and writing times exceed a clock cycle duration, necessitating slower clock frequencies and wait states, which reduces processing speed.
Innovation Solution
A capture time sweep process is performed at the receiving device to determine an optimal capture time window where data transfers occur without errors, allowing for higher frequency clock speeds by adjusting the sampling clock to align with the data interface clock, thereby reducing errors and improving processing speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If higher frequency clock signals are used to increase data transfer speed, then processing speed is improved, but data transfer errors increase due to misalignment of clock edges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the capture time adjustable rather than fixed. The receiving device dynamically selects different capture times (earlier or later than the ideal midpoint) based on actual timing conditions, allowing the system to adapt to variations in clock edge alignment and maintain reliable data transfer at higher frequencies
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the timing parameter (capture time) relative to the clock signal. By shifting the capture time away from the ideal midpoint and adjusting it based on test results, the system compensates for clock edge misalignment and achieves both high speed and high reliability
2Reliability
If capture time is adjusted to align sampling clock with data interface clock, then data transfer errors are reduced, but timing control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving device performs self-testing by automatically executing a capture time sweep to determine the optimal capture time for its specific hardware configuration. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external manual timing adjustment and reduces operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing the capture time sweep during manufacturing or initial setup to pre-determine the optimal capture time. Once determined, this timing parameter is stored and used for all subsequent data transfers, avoiding the need for repeated timing adjustments
3Reliability
If capture time sweep process is performed to determine optimal timing, then data transfer reliability is improved, but processing time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The capture time sweep is performed as a one-time preliminary action during manufacturing or initial system setup. The optimal capture time determined during this initial phase is stored in non-volatile memory and reused for all subsequent operations, eliminating the need to repeat the time-consuming sweep process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a copy of the optimal capture time parameter stored in non-volatile memory to guide future data transfers. Instead of repeatedly performing the sweep process, the system uses the pre-determined and stored timing information, significantly reducing ongoing processing time
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for time control for a data interface between a source device and a receiving device are provided. In one example, a method can include performing a capture time sweep process at the receiving device. The capture time sweep process includes performing a plurality of test data transfers at the receiving device at a plurality of different capture time settings. The method can include determining a capture time window based at least in part on the capture time sweep process. The capture time window can be defined as a duration between a first capture time and a second capture time. The method can include determining a selected capture time between the first capture time and the second capture time. The method can include controlling data transfer across the data interface based at least in part on the selected capture time.