Half-Frequency Command Paths for High-Speed Logic Timing
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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 at high clock frequencies.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of half-frequency command paths using internally generated geared-down clock signals, which double the time available for logic functions without increasing the clock frequency, by dividing the command path into two paths operating at half the frequency of the external clock signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the clock signal frequency is increased to improve processing speed, then the productivity increases, but the remaining time for logic functions decreases causing command path breakdown
Solution Approach 1:
The command path is divided into two separate half-frequency command paths, each operating at half the external clock frequency. This segmentation allows each path to have sufficient time for logic operations while the combined system maintains the original throughput capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Internally generated geared-down clock signals serve as intermediaries between the external high-frequency clock and the logic functions. These intermediary clock signals provide the necessary timing for logic operations without requiring the logic to operate directly at the high external clock frequency.
2Productivity
If the clock signal frequency is increased to improve processing speed, then the productivity increases, but the reliability decreases due to command path breakdown
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the command path into two half-frequency paths reduces the timing stress on each individual path, preventing command path breakdown and improving reliability while maintaining overall processing speed through parallel operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The clock frequency parameter is changed from the external high-frequency clock to internally generated half-frequency clock signals for the logic operations, creating optimal operating conditions for reliable logic function execution.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the clock signal period is extended to provide sufficient time for logic functions, then the duration of action increases, but the productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the command path into two parallel half-frequency paths, each path can operate with extended clock periods sufficient for logic functions, while the parallel structure maintains the original processing throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic half-frequency clock signals that provide sufficient period duration for logic operations. The alternating use of two such periodic paths maintains overall processing speed while ensuring each individual operation has adequate time.
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.