Dynamic Phase Alignment for Centered Data Sampling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Errors occur when sampling an input data signal during the setup or hold time, especially when the timing of the input data signal varies over time, leading to unreliable operations in integrated circuits.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic phase alignment is achieved by using two programmable delay units, sampling units, a comparator, and a controller to adjust the delay applied to the input data signal, ensuring it is sampled at the center of the sampling window, thereby minimizing errors due to timing variations and clock jitter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the input data signal timing varies over time, then the system must handle timing variations, but sampling errors occur during setup or hold time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic phase alignment by continuously adjusting the delay applied to the input data signal based on detected timing variations. The system monitors the actual timing of incoming data signals and dynamically modifies the delay parameter to maintain optimal sampling conditions, transforming a static delay system into a dynamic one that adapts to timing variations while preventing sampling errors during setup or hold time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where the timing of the input data signal is continuously monitored and compared against ideal sampling windows. Based on this feedback information, the controller adjusts the delay applied to the data signal to ensure it arrives at the optimal phase for sampling, thereby maintaining high reliability despite timing variations in the input signal.
2Reliability
If dynamic phase alignment is implemented with programmable delay units, then sampling reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the phase alignment function into separate modular components: programmable delay units for signal adjustment, sampling units for data capture, comparators for timing detection, and controllers for coordination. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, improving overall sampling reliability while making the complex system more manageable and maintainable through modular architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods and integrate circuits with dynamic phase alignment between an input data signal and a clock signal. In some embodiments, a sampling window of the input data signal may be determined and timing of the input data signal may be adjusted to enable the input data signal to be sampled within the sampling window. Other embodiments may be disclosed and claimed.