Segmented Digital Counter Circuit for Low-Toggle Power Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional digital counters in CMOS image sensors consume significant power due to signal toggling at each clock cycle, leading to increased power consumption as the number of counters increases.
Innovation Solution
A digital counter design that includes first and second count units generating bit signals with constant levels in response to clock signals, and a third count unit that toggles in response to a clock signal, minimizing power consumption by preventing toggling in the first and second count units during count operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional digital counters use D-flip-flops that toggle at each clock cycle, then count operation is achieved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The counter is divided into multiple count units (first count unit, second count unit, third count unit, etc.), where each unit handles specific bit positions. This segmentation allows selective toggling - only the third count unit and subsequent units toggle their outputs, while first and second count units maintain constant levels, thereby reducing overall power consumption while preserving counting functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements periodic toggling behavior where bit signals alternate between constant level and toggling state in a structured pattern. The third count unit toggles periodically with the clock signal while first and second count units remain constant, creating a periodic action pattern that reduces unnecessary signal transitions and associated power consumption
Data Source
AI summary
A digital counter may include a first count unit suitable for outputting a first bit signal having a constant level in response to a first clock signal, a second count unit suitable for outputting a second bit signal having a constant level in response to a second clock signal, and a third count unit suitable for outputting a third bit signal toggling in response to the second clock signal, and performing a count operation.