Modular Multi-Channel Signal Sharing for PLD Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-channel communication circuitry for integrated circuits, such as PLDs, faces challenges in synchronizing more than four channels effectively, leading to inefficiencies and waste when trying to use communication links that require more than four channels, as it often relies on core logic circuitry for synchronization, which is not modular and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a modular signal distribution circuitry that allows channels to be grouped into subpluralities, with each subplurality having its own signal distribution mechanism, enabling channels to share a common clock signal and synchronize independently or collectively, supporting both four and eight channels without the need for extensive core logic circuitry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If channels are grouped into fixed quads of four channels, then the circuit design is modular and simple, but it becomes inefficient and wasteful when more than four channels are required for communication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the channel groups into subpluralities (groups of fewer than four channels) within each quad, allowing flexible configuration. Each subplurality can be independently configured to use 1, 2, or 3 channels, enabling the system to adapt to various communication requirements while maintaining modular circuit design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfiguration capability where channel groups can be programmatically adjusted between different operational modes (X1, X2, X3, X4). This allows the same hardware circuit to adapt its configuration based on runtime requirements, transitioning from static fixed quads to dynamically reconfigurable channel groups.
2Adaptability or versatility
If core logic circuitry is used to synchronize outputs of multiple quads, then more than four channels can work together, but the device complexity increases and modularity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables each channel group to self-synchronize by providing local clock signal distribution within each subplurality. Instead of requiring complex external synchronization circuitry, each channel group independently manages its own timing through embedded clock distribution mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining multi-quad operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates universal channel groups that can function independently or in combination with other quads. The same circuitry that handles single-quad operations also supports multi-quad configurations through programmable interconnection, eliminating the need for separate synchronization circuitry and reducing device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If quads are enlarged to include more than four channels, then channels exceeding four can work together, but modularity is lost and circuit design becomes less flexible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments larger channel configurations into multiple quads, each containing subpluralities of channels. Rather than creating monolithic channel groups, the system divides 6, 8, or more channels into separate quad units with configurable subpluralities, maintaining modularity while achieving higher channel capacity through coordinated operation of multiple quads.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit like a programmable logic device (“PLD”) includes multiple channels of data communication circuitry. Circuitry is provided for selectively sharing signals (e.g., control-type signals) among these channels in groupings of various size so that the device can better support communication protocols that require various numbers of channels (e.g., one channel operating relatively independently, four channels working together, eight channels working together, etc.). The signals shared may include a clock signal, a FIFO write enable signal, a FIFO read enable signal, or the like. The circuit arrangements are preferably modular (i.e., the same or substantially the same from one channel to the next and/or from one group of channels to the next) to facilitate such things as circuit design and verification.