Feedforward Latch Circuit for Low-Power Frequency Division
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional high speed divide-by-2 frequency dividers have high power consumption due to current paths formed between the power supply and ground in both static and dynamic working conditions, limiting their application.
Innovation Solution
A latch with a feedforward control unit is introduced, which cuts off current paths based on differential signals between input terminals, reducing power consumption by eliminating static power consumption and dynamically managing power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If conventional high speed divide-by-2 frequency divider is used, then high speed and wide bandwidth are achieved, but power consumption increases due to current paths between power supply and ground
Solution Approach 1:
The feedforward control unit predicts the state changes of the latch based on differential signals from input terminals before the actual state transition occurs. By proactively cutting off current paths in advance through the control transistors, the invention prevents unnecessary power consumption during static conditions while maintaining high-speed operation during dynamic transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The feedforward control unit acts as an intermediary between the input terminals and the latch logic units. It uses differential signals to control additional transistors that selectively connect or disconnect current paths, thereby mediating the power consumption without affecting the core frequency division function.
2Productivity
If current paths are maintained for high speed operation, then bandwidth is improved, but static power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention dynamically adjusts the connectivity of current paths based on the operational state of the latch. During dynamic operation, current paths remain connected for high-speed performance. During static conditions, the feedforward control unit detects stable differential signals and disconnects current paths through control transistors, eliminating static power consumption while preserving productivity during active operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the electrical state parameters of the latch by introducing controllable resistance through additional transistors. By switching these transistors on or off based on differential signals, the effective resistance of current paths is dynamically adjusted, allowing low resistance (high conductivity) during operation and high resistance (low conductivity) during static periods.
Data Source
AI summary
A latch and a frequency divider are provided. The latch includes: a first logic unit coupled between a power supply and a ground wire, wherein the first logic unit comprises a first control terminal, a first input terminal and a first output terminal; a second logic unit having a structure symmetrical to that of the first logic unit, wherein the second logic unit comprises a second control terminal, a second input terminal and a second output terminal; and a feedforward control unit adapted for cutting off a current path in the first logic unit or the second logic unit based on signals inputted into the first input terminal and the second input terminal. Power consumption of the latch can be reduced in both static working condition and dynamic working condition.