Half-Frequency Command Path for Fast Logic Timing Margin
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Solution Overview
Problem
In semiconductor devices, the remaining time after subtracting flip-flop overhead from the clock signal period is often insufficient to perform logic functions, leading to breakdown of command paths, especially when clock signals are fast or logic functions are extensive.
Innovation Solution
Generating internal geared-down clock signals with half the frequency of external clock signals, allowing each flip-flop to operate at double the external clock period, thereby increasing the time available to perform logic functions without increasing the clock frequency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the clock signal frequency is increased to improve processing speed, then the productivity is improved, but the remaining time for logic functions becomes insufficient causing command path breakdown
Solution Approach 1:
The command path is divided into two separate half-frequency command paths, each operating at half the original clock frequency. This segmentation allows each path to have sufficient time for logic operations while maintaining overall high-speed processing capability through parallel operation and selective output combining.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the clock signal frequency is increased to reduce operation time, then the duration of action is reduced, but the time available for logic functions becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic clock signals at half the original frequency to clock the divided command paths. By operating at a lower periodic frequency, each logic element has sufficient time to complete its functions, while the overall system maintains high throughput through parallel processing and output combining.
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor device includes a clock divider that receives a clock signal and generates even and odd clock signals. The clock signal includes a first frequency, while the even and odd clock signals each includes a second frequency that is half the first frequency. The semiconductor device also includes even and odd command paths coupled to the clock divider each having a set of logic and a set of flip-flops. The even command path receives a command and the even clock signal and outputs an even output signal. The odd command path receives the command and the odd clock signal and outputs an odd output signal. The semiconductor device also includes combination circuitry coupled to the even and odd command paths that combines the even and odd output signals.