IO Interface Hold Circuit for Stable Partial Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Partial reconfiguration of programmable logic devices often leads to unstable external input/output (IO) interfaces, as existing systems cannot reconfigure IO interfaces, resulting in unpredictable performance.
Innovation Solution
A circuit and method that stabilize IO interfaces by using a selection circuit and control circuit to hold input/output ports at predetermined values during partial reconfiguration, allowing for synchronous or asynchronous switching of values using existing clocks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If partial reconfiguration is performed on programmable logic devices, then device adaptability and reconfigurability are improved, but IO interface stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the reconfiguration process into segments by introducing a hold state for specific IO interfaces. The IO interface is segmented into configurable portions and fixed hold portions, allowing partial reconfiguration of logic blocks while maintaining stability of external interfaces through the hold state mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing hold states for IO interfaces before reconfiguration occurs. The control circuit is configured to enter the hold state in advance during reconfiguration transitions, ensuring IO stability is maintained before the reconfiguration process begins, thus preventing instability issues.
2Reliability
If IO interfaces remain fixed during partial reconfiguration, then IO interface stability is maintained, but system functionality and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic control of IO interfaces through a controllable hold state. The IO interface can dynamically transition between normal operation mode and hold state based on reconfiguration needs. This dynamic mechanism allows the system to maintain stability when required while enabling reconfiguration functionality, resolving the contradiction between fixed stability and adaptive flexibility.
3Reliability
If decoupling logic is added to maintain IO stability during reconfiguration, then IO interface stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the hold state control functionality directly into the IO interface circuitry itself, combining multiple functions (normal operation, hold state, and control logic) into a unified interface structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate decoupling logic circuits, maintaining IO stability while avoiding additional circuit complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The IO interface circuit is designed with multi-functionality, serving both normal operation and hold state functions within the same circuit structure. The universal interface can operate in different modes (normal or hold) based on control signals, eliminating the need for dedicated decoupling logic and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit for routing data in an integrated circuit device is described. The circuit comprises an input/output port; an interface circuit coupled to the input/output port and configured to receive data, the interface circuit comprising a selection circuit enabling the selection of the data and a predetermined value; and a control circuit coupled to control the selection circuit; wherein the control circuit holds the input/output port at the predetermined value during a partial reconfiguration of the integrated circuit device in response to a control signal. A method of configuring a circuit for routing data in an integrated circuit device is also described.