Multi-Channel Calibration Circuit With Shared Terminal and Relay Codes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor devices with multiple channels face challenges in accurately controlling impedance of data output circuits due to process variations and temperature changes, leading to inefficiencies in calibration.
Innovation Solution
A calibration circuit is implemented to generate and adjust calibration codes for each channel independently, using a shared calibration terminal and relay circuits to minimize current consumption by transferring adjustment codes after calibration, ensuring accurate impedance control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a calibration circuit is provided for each channel independently, then impedance control precision is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the calibration functionality by providing separate calibration circuits for each channel (first calibration circuit for first channel, second calibration circuit for second channel). This allows independent impedance calibration for each channel, improving measurement precision while managing complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a shared calibration terminal that can be accessed by multiple channels. This universal terminal serves multiple functions by allowing calibration operations for both channels through a common interface, reducing the number of external terminals needed and simplifying the overall device structure
2Measurement precision
If calibration circuits are provided for each channel independently, then impedance control precision is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration functionality is segmented into separate circuits for each channel, allowing independent operation. This enables power management where only the required channel's calibration circuit is activated at any given time, reducing overall power consumption compared to having all calibration circuits continuously active
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration operation is performed periodically rather than continuously. The calibration circuits are activated only when needed to adjust impedance, and then remain in a low-power state, significantly reducing average power consumption while maintaining precision when calibration is performed
3Measurement precision
If multiple calibration terminals are provided for each channel, then calibration accuracy is improved, but device complexity and external terminal count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a shared calibration terminal that serves multiple channels universally. This single terminal can be used for calibration operations on both the first and second channels, eliminating the need for separate dedicated calibration terminals for each channel while maintaining calibration accuracy through proper signal management
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration terminal functionality is merged across channels. Instead of providing separate calibration terminals for each channel, the patent combines the calibration terminal resource and uses it for multiple channels through time-division or signal-routing mechanisms, reducing the total external terminal count
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a first channel, a second channel and a calibration circuit. The first channel includes a first command control circuit. The second channel includes a second command control circuit independent of the first command control circuit. The calibration circuit is shared by the first channel and the second channel to generate a calibration code responsive to a calibration command generated responsive to a first calibration command from the first command control circuit and a second calibration command from the second command control circuit.