Decision Feedback Equalizer Error Detection for PAM Burst Errors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional data communication systems are inadequate in handling high-bandwidth data transfer and error correction, particularly in removing intersymbol interference and burst errors, which affects the accuracy and efficiency of data transmission.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a feedforward equalization module, decision feedback equalization module, and error detection module with maximum likelihood sequence detection, utilizing a reduced-state trellis path to process data signals and remove errors, including the use of a reflection cancellation module and forward error correction decoder.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional feedforward equalization and decision feedback equalization are used, then data transmission is enabled, but intersymbol interference and burst errors cannot be effectively removed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror removal capabilityVSAvoidequalization system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the equalization process into distinct functional modules: feedforward equalization module for initial signal processing, decision feedback equalization module for removing intersymbol interference, and error detection module for identifying and correcting burst errors. This segmentation allows each module to specialize in specific error types, improving overall reliability while managing complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an error detection module as an intermediary component between the decision feedback equalization module and the output. This intermediary detects error events using maximum likelihood sequence detection and enables selective correction of burst errors, thereby enhancing error removal capability without requiring complete redesign of the entire equalization system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If maximum likelihood sequence detection with reduced-state trellis path is implemented, then error detection accuracy is improved, but processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror detection accuracyVSAvoiddetection module complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by implementing maximum likelihood sequence detection with reduced-state trellis path specifically within the error detection module, rather than throughout the entire system. This localized application of sophisticated detection algorithms improves error detection accuracy at critical points while avoiding unnecessary complexity in other parts of the system where simpler processing suffices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If decision feedback equalization is used to remove intersymbol interference, then signal quality improves, but burst errors are introduced or exacerbated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal qualityVSAvoidburst errors
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the harmful effect of burst errors introduced by decision feedback equalization into a detectable and correctable condition. The error detection module uses maximum likelihood sequence detection to identify burst error patterns, and the system applies selective correction to transform these previously harmful errors into corrected data, thereby improving overall signal quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the error detection module monitors the output of the decision feedback equalization module and provides correction signals back to the system. This feedback loop enables continuous identification and correction of burst errors, allowing the system to maintain high signal quality while compensating for the burst error tendency inherent in decision feedback equalization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11038538B2Maximum likelihood error detection for decision feedback equalizers with PAM modulation
Publication Date: 2021.06.15 MARVELL ASIA PTE LTD
  • US11038538B2 patent drawing
  • US11038538B2 patent drawing
  • US11038538B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is directed to data communication. More specifically, an embodiment of the present invention provides an error correction system. Input data signals are processed by a feedforward equalization module and a decision feedback back equalization module. Decisions generated by the decision feedback equalization module are processed by an error detection module, which determines error events associated with the decisions. The error detection module implements a reduced state trellis path. There are other embodiments as well.