Hybrid Clock Distribution Network for Timing and Power Trade-offs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clock distribution networks in digital integrated circuits face challenges in balancing timing performance, predictability, and resource utilization, with tree-type networks offering weak timing performance and high predictability but low resource efficiency, while mesh-type networks provide stable performance but consume more resources.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid clock distribution network structure that combines tree-type and mesh-type networks by distributing clock tree structures between local circuit modules and clock mesh structures within them based on node proportions, sequential circuit connections, wiring lengths, and timing violations, allowing for adaptive design and resource optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a tree-type clock distribution network is used, then the layout and wiring resources are consumed less and power consumption is reduced, but the timing performance is weak and timing variations are large
Solution Approach 1:
The clock distribution network is divided into multiple clock domains, with each domain containing a mix of tree-type and mesh-type structures. This segmentation allows different regions to use the most appropriate topology for their specific requirements, balancing power efficiency with timing performance across the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
Different clock distribution topologies are applied to different local regions based on their specific needs. Tree-type structures are used in regions prioritizing power efficiency, while mesh-type structures are used in regions requiring superior timing performance, creating a heterogeneous network with optimized local characteristics.
2Reliability
If a mesh-type clock distribution network is used, then timing variations are reduced and predictability is improved, but layout and wiring resources and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The network is segmented into multiple clock domains where mesh-type structures are only deployed in regions that require high timing performance. This localized approach maintains the timing benefits of mesh networks where needed while avoiding their power and resource costs in regions where tree networks suffice.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution applies different quality levels of clock distribution to different parts of the system. Critical regions with tight timing requirements receive mesh-type distribution with superior timing characteristics, while non-critical regions use simpler tree-type distribution, optimizing the overall system trade-off.
3Ease of manufacture
If a tree-type clock distribution network is used, then the algorithm is simple and implementation is easy, but timing sequence predictability is low due to strong timing variations
Solution Approach 1:
The clock distribution system is segmented into multiple domains with different topologies. This allows the simple tree-type algorithm to be used in most regions while introducing mesh-type structures only in specific domains where timing predictability is critical, thus maintaining overall algorithmic simplicity while improving timing precision where needed.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a structure of a clock distribution network and generation method thereof. The clock distribution network is distributed in multiple local circuit modules. The clock distribution network comprises a clock tree structure and clock mesh structures, wherein the clock tree structure is distributed at least between or among the multiple local circuit modules and has a root node which is a clock access point of the clock distribution network. The clock mesh structures are distributed within at least one local circuit module at least according to a proportion of clock nodes in the local circuit module, a proportion of sequential circuits connected by clock in the local circuit module, a ratio of a total length of clock routing wirings in the local circuit module to a perimeter of the local circuit module, and a proportion of timing violation paths in the local circuit module.