Clock Routing Circuit for High-Speed Data Transceivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-speed data transfer in integrated circuits faces challenges in signal integrity and accurate clock signal routing, particularly as data rates exceed 1 Gbps, requiring improved methods to efficiently route clock signals between data transceivers and internal circuits.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a clock routing circuit with a clock bus interface and data transceiver coupling, allowing clock signals to be routed between adjacent data transceivers and internal circuits, using clock drivers and buses to manage external and internal clock signals, and employing bi-directional clock drivers to route signals effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If clock signals are routed through traditional parallel bus structures, then clock distribution can be achieved, but signal integrity deteriorates at high data rates exceeding 1 Gbps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the clock distribution system into dedicated clock buses that are physically separated from data signal paths. Each clock bus is routed independently through the integrated circuit, dividing the clock distribution function from other signal routing functions. This segmentation prevents cross-interference and maintains signal integrity even at high data rates exceeding 1 Gbps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dedicated clock bus interfaces as intermediary components that couple data transceivers to internal circuits. These interfaces serve as specialized mediators for clock signal transmission, providing galvanic isolation and impedance matching that protect against noise and interference from high-speed data paths while ensuring reliable clock distribution.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more clock routing paths are added to serve multiple data transceivers, then clock signal distribution capability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs clock buses with universal coupling capabilities that can serve multiple data transceivers simultaneously. Each clock bus interface can couple to various internal circuits and data transceivers, providing a multi-functional routing architecture. This universal design allows the same clock bus infrastructure to support different numbers and configurations of data transceivers without requiring separate dedicated routing paths for each transceiver.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent organizes clock routing in a two-dimensional grid structure where clock buses extend horizontally and vertically across the integrated circuit. This spatial arrangement allows clock signals to reach multiple data transceivers located at different positions on the chip by intersecting at appropriate clock bus interfaces, reducing the need for complex point-to-point routing while maintaining adaptability.
3Reliability
If dedicated clock routing infrastructure is implemented, then signal integrity improves, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges clock bus routing with the existing data transceiver array structure. Clock buses are routed through the same interconnect layers and fabrication processes used for data signal paths, combining the manufacturing steps for both signal types. This integration allows dedicated clock routing infrastructure to be implemented using the same manufacturing infrastructure, avoiding additional fabrication costs while maintaining signal integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
The various embodiments of the present invention relate to coupling clock signals between a plurality of data transceivers. According to one embodiment, a clock routing circuit having data transceivers comprises a clock bus interface and a first data transceiver coupled to the clock bus interface to receive a clock signal from the clock bus interface. A clock bus coupled to receive the clock signal enables the transfer of the clock signal to an adjacent data transceiver. According to other embodiments, various clock buses and interfaces enable routing clock signals between various circuits of the integrated circuit.