Master-Slave Clock Phase Alignment Using Measured Phase Difference
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Solution Overview
Problem
In synchronous digital communication networks, phase differences between master and slave clocks can cause service interruptions and code errors during switching, and existing solutions require costly devices to achieve precise alignment.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that lock the phase of the master clock, measure the phase difference between the master and slave clocks, and adjust the slave clock's phase output to align with the master clock's phase, using a phase-shift unit and sampling to determine alignment without increasing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single clock chip is used to lock the slave clock to the master clock, then the apparatus cost is reduced, but the phase alignment precision deteriorates resulting in service interruptions and code errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the phase alignment process into two independent stages: frequency locking (using the clock chip) and phase alignment (using the phase difference measurement module). This segmentation allows each module to perform its specialized function optimally while keeping overall costs low.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a phase difference measurement module as an intermediary component between the master and slave clocks. This module specifically measures and corrects phase differences without affecting the frequency locking function, thereby improving phase alignment precision without requiring expensive high-performance devices for the entire system.
2Measurement precision
If devices with more excellent performance are used to reduce phase difference, then the phase alignment precision is improved, but the apparatus cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the clock synchronization system into frequency locking (handled by standard clock chip) and phase alignment (handled by the measurement module), allowing the use of standard, cost-effective components for frequency locking while adding a dedicated, relatively simple measurement module for phase precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The phase difference measurement module uses the existing clock signals themselves to perform measurements and adjustments, rather than requiring external expensive equipment. The module self-corrects phase differences using the signals already present in the system.
3Device complexity
If phase difference between master and slave clock is not corrected, then the system complexity is reduced, but service reliability deteriorates due to code errors and interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds only a dedicated phase measurement module without reconfiguring the entire clock system. The frequency locking function remains unchanged, and only phase alignment is added as a separate, simple module, minimizing system complexity while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The phase difference measurement module continuously measures the phase difference between master and slave clocks and provides feedback for adjustment. This feedback mechanism automatically corrects phase errors, ensuring service reliability without requiring complex manual intervention or system redesign.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for aligning the phases of a master clock and a slave clock; and the method comprises the following steps: A. locking a phase of a master clock; B. measuring phase difference between a slave clock and the master clock; and C. adjusting a phase output by the slave clock so as to align it with the phase of the master clock based on the phase difference measured in Step B. The present invention also discloses an apparatus for aligning the phases of a master clock and a slave clock. By measuring the phase difference between the master clock and the slave clock, and aligning the phases of the master clock and the slave clock according to the phase difference the present invention improves the precision of phase alignment without increasing costs.