Latch System Soft Error Detection in Control Circuits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Soft errors in non-data flow (control) circuits are difficult to detect due to their transient and unpredictable nature, particularly in high-reliability applications like high-end computing and secure network systems, where existing methods for data flow circuits are not practical.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a latch system with two pairs of parallel latches, where the second pair captures input later in time relative to the first, allowing for comparison and detection of soft errors through an XOR gate, sending a message to a recovery unit if discrepancies are found.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If parity bits and error correcting codes are added to detect soft errors in data flow circuits, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity and practical applicability to control circuits deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit is divided into multiple latch pairs (first pair and second pair) that operate independently but comparably. Each latch pair captures signals at different times, allowing soft error detection without requiring complex error correcting codes across the entire circuit. This segmentation enables simpler, more practical implementation in control circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The first latch pair captures the input signal before the second latch pair captures it. This time-separated preliminary capture allows the system to detect changes or errors that occur between the two capture moments, enabling soft error detection without adding complex error correcting mechanisms to the original circuit.
2Reliability
If traditional error detection methods are applied to control circuits, then detection capability is improved, but ease of operation and practicality deteriorates due to requirement of in-depth knowledge of control logic cones
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system automatically detects soft errors by comparing captures from the first and second latch pairs without requiring external intervention or complex analysis of control logic cones. The circuit self-monitors its own state transitions, making it easy to implement and operate in practical control circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the detection parameter from complex logical analysis to simple temporal comparison. By capturing signals at different times and comparing the results, the system transforms the detection problem into a straightforward parameter comparison that is easy to implement without deep knowledge of control logic structures.
3Productivity
If layout density is increased in VLSI chips, then productivity and integration are improved, but signal integrity and susceptibility to soft errors worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system provides feedback about the state of control signals at different times. By comparing the captures from the first and second latch pairs, the system can detect soft errors caused by increased density effects such as crosstalk and ground bounce, enabling reliability monitoring in high-density VLSI chips.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system and apparatus for detecting soft errors in non-dataflow circuits. In a preferred embodiment, input is received at a latch system. The latch system consists of two pairs of latches. The second pair of latches is parallel to the first pair of latches. Both pairs of latches capture the input. However, the second pair of latches captures the input later in time relative to the first pair of latches latch. The captured input is then transferred from the first latch in each pair of latches to the second latch in each pair of latches. A comparison is made of the input in the two second latches. If the input captured in the two second latches is not the same, then a message is sent to a recovery unit.