Logic Tile Clock Distribution with Programmable Skew Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clock distribution networks in integrated circuits face challenges in achieving synchronized clock signals with minimal skew between logic tiles, which can lead to delays and inefficiencies in signal transmission.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of clock distribution and transmission circuitry within logic tiles that generates local clock signals with programmable skew, using u-turn circuits and buffers to ensure synchronization and zero or minimal phase difference relative to other logic tiles, allowing for flexible design and layout to match delay components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a global clock distribution network is used across logic tiles, then clock signals can be distributed to all tiles, but clock skew between tiles increases and synchronization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the global clock distribution network into multiple regional clock distribution networks, each serving a specific region with multiple logic tiles. Each regional network has its own clock buffer and distribution structure, isolating clock skew to regional levels rather than propagating globally. This segmentation reduces overall clock skew and improves synchronization within each region.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hierarchical dimension to clock distribution by creating multiple levels: regional clock buffers at the region level and local clock buffers at the tile level. This multi-dimensional approach allows clock signals to be distributed efficiently while maintaining synchronization through localized buffering and delay matching in each hierarchical level.
2Adaptability or versatility
If clock distribution network is expanded to cover more logic tiles, then more tiles can be synchronized, but network complexity and delay components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clock distribution network is segmented into reusable regional modules, each containing standardized clock buffer and distribution logic. This modular segmentation allows the network to scale to more logic tiles by simply replicating and interconnecting standard regional units, rather than designing custom complex networks for each expansion scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
Each regional clock distribution network is designed as a universal module that can serve multiple logic tiles with identical or similar timing requirements. The standardized interface and delay-matching capability allow the same regional module to be reused across different regions and tile configurations, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability.
3Reliability
If delay components are added to match clock paths between tiles, then clock skew is reduced, but circuit complexity and area increase
Solution Approach 1:
Delay matching is applied locally within each regional clock distribution network rather than globally across the entire chip. Each regional network incorporates delay components only where needed to balance clock paths to its specific set of logic tiles. This localized approach reduces the total area of delay components while achieving sufficient synchronization accuracy for each region.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs programmable or selectable delay components that can be dynamically configured based on the specific timing requirements of different logic tile configurations. This dynamic delay adjustment allows the same physical infrastructure to adapt to varying synchronization needs without requiring excessive fixed delay components, optimizing the area-time tradeoff.
Data Source
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AI summary
An integrated circuit includes a plurality of logic tiles, wherein each logic tile includes a plurality of edges and is configurable to connect with adjacent logic tile. Each logic tile includes a plurality of input/output clock paths, wherein each input/output clock path is associated with a different edge of the logic tile. The plurality of input/output clock paths include a plurality of input clock path, each input clock path configurable to receive a tile input clock signal from an adjacent first logic tile, and a plurality of output clock paths, each output clock path configurable to output a tile output clock signal to an adjacent second logic tile. An output clock path includes a u-turn circuit to receive a tile clock signal having a first predetermined skew and provide a tile clock signal having a second predetermined skew.