Configurable I/O Termination Voltage Reference for Bridge Interoperability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The fixed termination voltage reference between the Southbridge and Northbridge in computer systems limits interoperability, as a power supply terminated Southbridge cannot connect to a ground voltage terminated Northbridge, requiring multiple product lines with different termination voltage references.
Innovation Solution
A configurable input/output (I/O) termination voltage reference system that allows transmitters and receivers to select suitable termination voltage references based on coupling type, using a termination circuit with settings for supply voltage, ground voltage, and half supply voltage, enabling interoperability and reducing the need for multiple product lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed termination voltage reference is used in the interface between Southbridge and Northbridge, then the design is simple and reliable, but interoperability between different termination types (power supply terminated and ground voltage terminated) is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The termination voltage reference is made configurable through a termination circuit that can dynamically select between different voltage references (power supply voltage, ground voltage, or half supply voltage) based on the coupling type requirement. This dynamic selection capability allows the same interface design to adapt to both DC-coupled and AC-coupled configurations, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the termination voltage reference parameter from a fixed value to a configurable parameter. The termination circuit can be configured to output different voltage levels (Vcc, GND, or Vcc/2) depending on the desired coupling type, enabling a single design to support multiple interoperability scenarios without requiring multiple product lines.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple product lines with different termination voltage references are maintained to support different coupling types, then interoperability is achieved, but manufacturing and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The termination circuit is designed with multi-functionality to perform different termination voltage reference functions within a single device. By incorporating switches and voltage reference circuits that can output multiple voltage levels, a single product line can serve both DC-coupled and AC-coupled applications, eliminating the need for separate product lines and reducing manufacturing complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a configurable termination voltage reference system is implemented, then interoperability and versatility are improved, but the device complexity and circuit design increase
Solution Approach 1:
The termination circuit is segmented into functional modules: voltage reference generation circuits (providing Vcc, GND, and Vcc/2 references), switching elements (for selecting between references), and control logic. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function, making the overall complex system manageable and maintainable while achieving configuration flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system to facilitate configurable input/output (I/O) termination voltage reference in a transmitter or receiver. In one embodiment of the invention, the transmitter and receiver, each has a termination circuit to select a suitable termination reference voltage based on the desired coupling type. In one embodiment of the invention, the transmitter has a termination circuit coupled with a transmission driver and the transmitter selects only one of a supply voltage, a ground voltage and a half supply voltage as a termination voltage reference of the transmission driver. The receiver has a termination circuit to select either a supply voltage or a ground voltage as a termination voltage reference of the receiver.