Clock-Powered Signal Input Circuit for Low-Power High-Speed Sync
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Solution Overview
Problem
Energy harvesting technologies in semiconductor systems face challenges in providing sufficient power for high-speed operations due to limited power generation, making it difficult to sustain low power supply requirements.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor device with a signal input circuit that synchronizes input signals with clock signals and uses clock signals as a power source, incorporating synchronization units, latch units, and clock mixing units to optimize power usage, allowing the device to operate efficiently with external power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If energy harvesting technology is used to generate power, then power can be produced from peripheral energy sources, but the generated power is limited and not sufficient for high-speed operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling clock signals to serve dual purposes: as timing signals for synchronization and as power sources for circuit operation. The signal input circuit uses clock signals from external sources (not just internal oscillators) to both synchronize incoming signals and provide operating power, thereby maximizing the utilization of limited harvested energy while maintaining high-speed operation capability.
2Ease of operation
If conventional signal input circuits are used, then signal reception is possible, but power consumption is not minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by designing the signal input circuit to use its own operating clock signal as the power source. The circuit synchronizes incoming signals with the clock and simultaneously uses the clock signal's energy to power the synchronization and latching operations, eliminating the need for separate power supply circuits and minimizing overall power consumption.
3Use of energy by moving object
If clock signals are used as power source, then power consumption is minimized, but the circuit must synchronize input signals with the clock signal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the synchronization function and power supply function into a single integrated operation. The clock signal serves as both the timing reference for synchronizing input signals and the power source for circuit operation. This combination eliminates the need for separate power management circuits and simplifies the overall system architecture while achieving minimal power consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor device includes a signal input circuit suitable for synchronizing an input signal with a clock signal and receiving the clock signal as a power source when the input signal has a first phase, where the signal input circuit amplifies a swing width of the input signal based on a swing width of the clock.