Input Code Synchronization Using Limit Strobe Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor devices face issues in synchronizing data signals with strobe signals when there is a lack of timing margin, leading to random latching of logic values, resulting in unreliable signal processing.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor device design that includes a first circuit to generate a limit strobe signal by adjusting the toggling period of the strobe signal based on input code signal transitions, and a second circuit to synchronize the input code signal using the limit strobe signal, ensuring proper latching of data signals regardless of the clock signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the strobe signal and data signal are transitioned at similar timings to increase synchronization speed, then the productivity is improved, but the reliability deteriorates because the data signal cannot be normally latched when timing margin is not secured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by generating a delayed strobe signal in advance before the data signal transition. The delay circuit creates a strobe signal that is already timed to occur after the data signal has stabilized, ensuring that the latching operation always occurs when the data signal is in a valid state. This preliminary timing adjustment prevents the reliability issue of random latching while maintaining high synchronization speed.
2Reliability
If the strobe signal toggling period is extended to increase timing margin, then the reliability is improved, but the productivity deteriorates because the synchronization speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the strobe signal timing parameter through a delay circuit. Instead of extending the toggling period to increase timing margin, the invention changes the phase relationship between strobe and data signals by introducing a controlled delay. This allows the strobe signal to occur at an optimal time after data stabilization, achieving both high reliability and fast synchronization without extending the overall period.
3Reliability
If a delay circuit is introduced to adjust strobe signal timing, then the reliability is improved by ensuring proper latching, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing a delay circuit as a mediator between the strobe signal generator and the latch circuit. This intermediary component adjusts the timing of the strobe signal without fundamentally changing the existing circuit architecture. The delay circuit acts as a buffer that reconciles the timing mismatch between strobe and data signals, improving reliability while adding minimal complexity to the overall system.
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor device may include: a first circuit suitable or generating a limit strobe signal by limiting a toggling period of a strobe signal depending on a change of an input code signal; and a second circuit suitable for synchronizing the input code signal based on the limit strobe signal and outputting a synchronized input code signal as an output code signal.