eUSB2 Repeater Idle Detection Without CDR or PLL Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implementing eUSB2 repeaters poses challenges due to voltage level differences between eUSB2 and legacy USB systems, leading to noise issues from idle signals, and existing solutions require large CDR or PLL components that increase cost and power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A circuit that includes amplifiers, comparators, and a logic circuit to detect idle eUSB2 differential input signals, maintaining the last bit of the EOP indicator for up to four additional bits to prevent noise, without using CDR or PLL components, thereby facilitating level-shifting and supporting dribble bits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If CDR or PLL components are used to detect idle signals and maintain EOP indicator, then noise transmission is prevented, but device size and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the idle signal detection function from complex CDR/PLL components and implements it using a simplified circuit with amplifiers, resistors, and a comparator. This extraction removes the harmful complexity while preserving the essential noise prevention function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, complex CDR/PLL components with a simpler, more economical circuit implementation using basic electronic components. This substitution reduces device size and cost while achieving the same functional outcome of preventing noise transmission.
2Reliability
If CDR or PLL components are used to detect idle signals and maintain EOP indicator, then noise transmission is prevented, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the idle signal detection function from power-hungry CDR/PLL components and implements it using a low-power circuit with amplifiers, resistors, and a comparator. This extraction removes the harmful power consumption while preserving the essential noise prevention function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, high-power CDR/PLL components with a simpler, lower-power circuit implementation using basic electronic components. This substitution reduces power consumption while achieving the same functional outcome of preventing noise transmission.
3Adaptability or versatility
If voltage level shifting is implemented between eUSB2 and legacy USB systems, then compatibility is achieved, but noise issues arise from idle signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting the idle signal condition before noise can be generated and transmitted. The circuit proactively identifies when the eUSB2 interface is idle and maintains the EOP indicator accordingly, preventing noise transmission at its source.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary circuit between the eUSB2 and legacy USB interfaces that mediates the voltage level shifting process. This intermediary detects idle conditions and controls the transmission accordingly, preventing noise generation while maintaining compatibility between different USB standards.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure provide for a method. In at least some examples, the method includes receiving, at a circuit, data via a differential input signal. The method further includes detecting a falling edge in the data received via the differential input signal. The method further includes holding an output of the circuit at a final logical value of the data. The method further includes disabling a transmitter of the circuit while holding the output of the circuit at the final logical value of the data. The method further includes releasing the output of the circuit from the final logical value of the data.