Eye-Diagram Index Analysis for DDR Signal Integrity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for analyzing signal integrity in DDR modules are time-consuming, particularly in identifying worst-case sequences for multiple transmission lines, which hinders the ability to ensure high-quality data transmission.

Innovation Solution

An eye-diagram index analytic method that calculates the transfer function of multiple coupled lines, converts it into a pulse response, and uses peak distortion analysis to quickly find worst-case sequence patterns and calculate the eye-diagram index.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If pseudorandom binary sequences (PRBS) are used to simulate eye diagrams, then signal integrity can be analyzed, but the analysis process becomes extremely time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal integrity analysis accuracyVSAvoidanalysis time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the complex multi-line transmission problem into individual line transfer functions. Each line's transfer function is calculated separately, then combined to determine worst-case sequences. This segmentation allows for more efficient computation compared to full PRBS simulation of the entire multi-line system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates simplified models (transfer functions) that copy the essential characteristics of the complex transmission lines. Instead of simulating the full PRBS sequences through the entire system, the transfer functions capture the key signal integrity effects, enabling faster analysis while maintaining measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Reliability

If worst-case sequences are found for multiple transmission lines, then signal quality can be ensured, but the computational complexity increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal qualityVSAvoidcomputational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the complex multi-line analysis into separate transfer function calculations for each line. By segmenting the problem, the computational complexity is reduced from analyzing all possible multi-line interactions to calculating individual line characteristics and combining them systematically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the approach from direct worst-case sequence search to transfer function-based analysis. This parameter change in the methodology transforms an exponentially complex computational problem into a more manageable calculation that still ensures signal quality through accurate transfer function modeling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If PRBS is used to obtain worst-case sequences for different lines simultaneously, then comprehensive signal integrity can be assessed, but the process becomes highly challenging and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomprehensive signal integrity assessmentVSAvoidanalysis efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the comprehensive signal integrity assessment into individual transfer function calculations. Each line's transfer function is computed separately, then the results are combined to assess overall signal integrity. This segmentation dramatically improves productivity while maintaining measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The transfer function acts as an intermediary between the complex multi-line transmission system and the simplified analysis process. Instead of directly analyzing worst-case sequences across multiple lines, the transfer functions serve as mediators that capture the essential signal integrity effects, enabling efficient comprehensive assessment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20250076379A1Eye-diagram index analytic method, computer readable recording medium, and electronic apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.03.06 NOVATEK MICROELECTRONICS CORP
  • US20250076379A1 patent drawing
  • US20250076379A1 patent drawing
  • US20250076379A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An eye-diagram index analytic method includes: calculating a transfer function of multiple coupled lines; converting the transfer function into a pulse response; calculating an eye-diagram index according to the pulse response; and correcting the eye-diagram index according to peak distortion analysis.