Frequency-Based Configuration Circuit for Low-Pin-Count IC Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated circuits (ICs) require increased pin counts for configuration setting, leading to higher costs, as existing methods rely on providing supply or ground voltage to specific pins, necessitating a reduction in pin counts for efficient operation mode configuration.
Innovation Solution
A configuration setting circuit that generates multiple clock signals with different frequencies, using frequency detectors to produce configuration data, allowing for reduced pin counts by sharing terminals for both configuration and operation modes, and employing a selection circuit to control signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple configuration pins are provided to support different operation modes, then the IC can provide more operation modes, but the pin count and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration pin is designed to serve multiple functions by detecting different input signal frequencies. The same pin can be used for both normal data input and configuration setting, depending on the frequency of the signal applied. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate configuration pins while maintaining the ability to support multiple operation modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes frequency as a parameter to differentiate configuration modes. By detecting the frequency of the input signal (e.g., 10MHz for normal operation, 50MHz for configuration mode), the system can determine the intended operation mode without requiring additional pins. This parameter-based differentiation allows a single pin to control multiple configuration settings.
2Ease of operation
If a dedicated configuration pin is added, then configuration setting becomes simpler, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The existing data input pin is made universal by adding frequency detection capability. This allows the same pin to handle both normal data input and configuration setting operations, eliminating the need for a dedicated configuration pin while maintaining ease of operation through frequency-based mode differentiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines the operation mode by detecting the frequency of the signal applied to the pin, without requiring external configuration commands or additional control logic. The frequency detector circuit self-identifies whether the input is a normal data signal or a configuration signal based on its frequency characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
A configuration setting circuit and the method thereof, in which the configuration setting circuit includes a clock generator, a plurality of terminals, and a frequency detector coupled to a terminal. The clock generator is used to generate multiple clock signals with different frequencies, and output through the terminals. One input signal is inputted to the frequency detector through the terminal coupled to the frequency detector, so that the frequency detector can output at least two-bit configuration signal corresponding to the frequency of the input signal to set the operation mode.