Clock Phase Shifter with Opposite Offset Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phase errors in clock signals due to signal path delays and component mismatches lead to suboptimal sampling of data signals, resulting in reduced signal strength and quality.
Innovation Solution
A phase adjustor system that adjusts the phases of two clock signals by the same amount but in opposite directions, using an offset determined by a controller, to correct relative phase errors and improve sampling accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If phase adjustment is applied to correct clock signal phases, then sampling accuracy is improved, but signal strength may be reduced due to additional circuit complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines phase adjustment functionality into the existing clock signal distribution network by inserting phase adjustors at strategic points in the signal path. This merging approach allows phase correction to be achieved without adding completely separate adjustment circuits, thereby maintaining signal strength while improving sampling accuracy through integrated phase control.
Solution Approach 2:
The phase adjustors dynamically change the phase parameter of clock signals by adjustable amounts (e.g., 0, 45, 90, 135 degrees) based on detected phase errors. This parameter adjustment allows precise control over sampling timing without requiring complex circuit modifications that would degrade signal strength, resolving the contradiction between sampling accuracy and signal integrity.
2Measurement precision
If phase errors are corrected by adjusting individual clock signals, then sampling accuracy improves, but device complexity increases due to additional adjustment circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the phase adjustment function into multiple independent phase adjustors, each handling specific clock signals (e.g., first through fourth clock signals). This segmentation allows phase correction to be applied locally at each signal path without requiring a complex centralized adjustment system, thereby improving sampling accuracy while keeping individual circuit blocks relatively simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The phase adjustors are designed with multi-functionality, serving both phase adjustment and signal distribution functions. By making these circuits universal rather than dedicated solely to phase correction, the patent reduces overall device complexity while still achieving improved sampling accuracy through integrated phase control capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes determining a phase error for a first clock signal and a second clock signal and determining an offset based on the phase error for the first clock signal and the second clock signal. The method also includes adding the offset to a phase of the first clock signal to produce a first adjusted clock signal and subtracting the offset from a phase of the second clock signal to produce a second adjusted clock signal. A phase error for the first adjusted clock signal and the second adjusted clock signal is smaller than the phase error for the first clock signal and the second clock signal.