Deserializer Word Alignment via Pattern Detection and Bit Shifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing deserializer circuits face challenges in inferring word boundaries in a received data stream without a system reset signal, necessitating a method for accurate word alignment.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a deserializer circuit, alignment detection circuit, and clock generator circuit, which includes a fine alignment circuit to detect coarse and fine word alignment, adjusting alignment in increments of one bit position using shift blocks and demultiplexers to correct alignment errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If word alignment is performed without a system reset signal, then the deserializer can operate independently, but accurate detection of word boundaries becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses changes in signal characteristics (analogous to color changes) to detect word boundaries. Specifically, it monitors transitions in the deserialized data stream and uses these transitions as indicators to synchronize the clock generator circuit with actual word boundaries, enabling accurate detection without external reset signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment detection circuit continuously monitors the deserialized data and provides feedback to the clock generator circuit. When a word boundary transition is detected, the circuit generates a feedback signal to reset or resynchronize the clock generator, creating a closed-loop system that maintains accurate alignment independently.
2Measurement precision
If coarse word alignment is detected from data stream changes, then word boundaries can be inferred, but fine alignment adjustments are required for precise bit-position accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment detection process is segmented into two distinct stages: coarse alignment and fine alignment. The coarse alignment stage detects general word boundaries from data stream transitions, while the fine alignment stage performs precise bit-position adjustments. This segmentation allows each stage to be optimized independently, managing complexity while achieving high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The coarse alignment detection performs preliminary action by establishing approximate word boundaries before fine alignment is applied. This preliminary synchronization narrows down the search space for fine alignment, making the subsequent precision adjustment more efficient and less complex.
3Reliability
If the clock generator circuit is reset upon detecting coarse word alignment, then synchronization is maintained, but continuous monitoring of data stream transitions is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs periodic resets of the clock generator circuit based on detected word boundary transitions in the data stream. Rather than continuous intervention, the system monitors for specific transition patterns and applies corrective reset actions periodically when needed, maintaining synchronization reliability while minimizing disruption to data processing throughput.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for word alignment. In some embodiments, the system includes a deserializer circuit, an alignment detection circuit, and a clock generator circuit. The clock generator circuit has a plurality of enable outputs connected to a plurality of enable inputs of the deserializer circuit, and a plurality of clock outputs connected to a plurality of clock inputs of the deserializer circuit. The alignment detection circuit is configured to detect a coarse word alignment; and, in response to detecting the coarse word alignment, to cause a reset of the clock generator circuit.