LO Signal Sampling Circuit for Phase Continuity Across Power Cycles

The patent applies preliminary action by capturing and storing a reference sample of the LO signal phase immediately after power-up, before any phase changes occur. This reference sample is then used for comparison in subsequent power cycles to detect phase discontinuities. The sampling circuit captures the initial phase state, and this captured state serves as the baseline for detecting future phase changes, thereby maintaining virtual phase continuity across power cycles.

The patent applies copying by creating a digital copy of the LO signal phase state through sampling. Instead of using complex continuous phase measurement circuitry, the invention captures a snapshot (copy) of the phase state at a specific moment and stores it as a sample. This sampled copy is then compared with subsequent phase states to detect discontinuities. This approach replaces expensive analog phase measurement equipment with simple digital sampling and comparison logic, dramatically reducing circuit area while maintaining detection accuracy.

The patent applies segmentation by separating the phase continuity detection function from the frequency divider itself. Instead of modifying the frequency divider to include reset mechanisms, the invention creates a separate detection system that samples the LO signal output and compares phase states independently. This segmentation allows the frequency divider to remain simple and unchanged while achieving phase continuity through external monitoring and correction, thereby reducing overall device complexity and manufacturing costs.