Semiconductor devices with signal synchronization circuits
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clock synchronization methods in semiconductor devices are inefficient as they require multiple independent synchronization circuits for each destination, leading to increased circuit area, cost, and power consumption, especially as semiconductor chips grow larger and more complex.
Innovation Solution
A multi-destination clock synchronization circuit comprising an independent synchronization circuit for the first destination and a dependent synchronization circuit for the second destination, using a variable delay line and phase detector modules to synchronize clock signals across multiple devices with reduced circuitry and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple independent synchronization circuits are used for each destination, then synchronization accuracy for each device is improved, but circuit area and power consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple independent synchronization circuits into a single shared synchronization circuit that serves multiple destinations. The synchronization circuit generates a synchronized clock signal that is distributed to multiple devices through separate delay paths, eliminating the need for redundant synchronization circuits at each destination while maintaining synchronization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization circuit is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple destinations simultaneously. It can synchronize clock signals for different devices with varying delay requirements by adjusting delay elements in different delay paths, making a single circuit capable of performing what previously required multiple dedicated circuits.
2Measurement precision
If multiple independent synchronization circuits are used for each destination, then synchronization accuracy for each device is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple independent synchronization circuits into one shared circuit, the patent eliminates redundant power consumption from duplicate circuit operations. The single synchronization circuit generates the master synchronized clock signal once, which is then distributed to multiple destinations through passive delay paths, significantly reducing overall power consumption compared to having each destination run its own independent synchronization circuit.
3Area of stationary object
If a single common synchronization circuit is used for multiple destinations, then circuit area is reduced, but synchronization accuracy deteriorates due to load differences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing customized delay paths for each destination based on its specific requirements. Each delay path contains delay elements that can be independently adjusted to compensate for variations in load, distance, and routing characteristics of individual destinations, ensuring that each device receives a clock signal with the appropriate timing characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization circuit incorporates dynamic delay adjustment capabilities through delay elements that can be controlled by control signals. This allows the circuit to adaptively adjust the delay in each path based on feedback or predetermined settings, maintaining synchronization accuracy despite differences in destination characteristics.
4Adaptability or versatility
If devices are positioned at different distances from the synchronization circuit, then device placement flexibility is improved, but synchronization accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent compensates for different device placement distances by providing individualized delay paths with adjustable delay elements for each destination. Devices can be positioned flexibly at different locations on the chip, and the delay in each path is adjusted locally to account for the different transmission distances, ensuring that all devices receive synchronized clock signals despite their varying positions.
Data Source
AI summary
Semiconductor devices are disclosed providing synchronization circuits for synchronized signal distribution for a plurality of devices in a semiconductor device. The synchronization apparatus includes an independent synchronization circuit and a dependent synchronization circuit. The independent synchronization circuit may be configured to receive a source signal and to generate a first destination signal substantially synchronized with the source signal. The dependent synchronization circuit may be coupled to the independent synchronization circuit and configured to receive the source signal and to generate a second destination signal substantially synchronized with the source signal.