Differential Signal Circuit With Phase Mixing for PVT-Stable Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional differential signal generation circuits in semiconductor memories experience phase differences due to delay time differences and process/voltage/temperature (PVT) variations, affecting signal accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A differential signal generation circuit that includes an inverter array and phase mixers to generate differential signals with reduced phase differences by sequentially inverting input signals and mixing delayed signals at preset or variable mixing ratios, ensuring consistent delay times across all inverters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a conventional inverter array is used to generate differential signals, then the circuit structure is simple, but phase differences occur due to delay time differences and PVT variations
Solution Approach 1:
The inverter array is divided into multiple segments with controlled delay characteristics. By segmenting the inversion path and introducing controlled delay elements, the circuit achieves balanced delay times for differential signal paths while maintaining modular structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Delay elements are introduced as intermediary components between inverters to equalize the delay times of differential signal paths. These intermediary elements compensate for PVT variations and ensure consistent phase relationships without requiring complete redesign of the inverter array.
2Productivity
If different numbers of inverters are used for differential signal paths, then signal generation is achieved, but phase differences occur due to delay time differences
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit employs dynamic delay adjustment mechanisms that adapt to process, voltage, and temperature variations. By making the delay characteristics dynamic rather than fixed, the system maintains equal delay times across differential paths under varying operating conditions, ensuring accurate phase relationships.
Solution Approach 2:
The delay elements are designed with adjustable parameters that can be tuned to compensate for PVT variations. By changing the delay parameters dynamically or through calibration, the system achieves equal delay times for differential signals while maintaining signal generation capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A differential signal generation circuit includes: an inverter array configured to sequentially invert an input signal to generate a plurality of delayed signals; and a phase mixer configured to mix a phase of a first delayed signal and a phase of a second delayed signal among the plurality of delayed signals at a preset mixing ratio to generate a first differential signal. The first delayed signal has a first delay from the input signal and the second delayed signal has a second delay from the input signal. The differential signal generation circuit is configured to generate a third delayed signal having a third delay from the input signal corresponding to a medium of the first and second delays, and the third delayed signal is further delayed to generate a second differential signal.