Multi-Phase Clock Phase Ranking for Uniform Edge Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-phase clock systems with non-uniform phase differences between clocks pose challenges in achieving uniform distribution of clock phases, which is essential for proper synchronization and data transmission in applications like double data rate transmission.
Innovation Solution
A system that measures and adjusts the relative phase differences between clock pairs, using an N-to-two multiplexer and control and adjust circuitry to uniformly distribute the clock phases by adjusting the timing of clock edges and pulse widths, allowing for either uniform or non-uniform phase distributions based on desired outcomes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multi-phase clock systems are used for data transmission, then data transmission capability is improved, but phase uniformity between clocks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system measures the actual phase differences between clock signals and uses this measurement information to automatically adjust and correct the phase relationships. The control circuitry continuously monitors phase uniformity and makes real-time adjustments to maintain optimal phase distribution, resolving the contradiction between enabling multi-phase operation and maintaining phase precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts timing parameters such as pulse widths and clock edge positions to achieve uniform phase distribution. By changing these temporal parameters based on measured phase differences, the system optimizes both the multi-phase transmission capability and the phase uniformity simultaneously.
2Device complexity
If phase differences between clocks are non-uniform, then system complexity is reduced, but synchronization performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clock system performs self-adjustment through automated measurement and correction mechanisms. The system independently measures its own phase relationships and automatically corrects non-uniformities without requiring external intervention or complex manual configuration, thereby maintaining synchronization performance while keeping the operational complexity low.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary phase measurement and adjustment during initialization or calibration phases before actual data transmission begins. This preliminary action ensures that phase uniformity is established in advance, preventing synchronization issues during normal operation without adding complexity to the main transmission function.
3Reliability
If clock phases are adjusted for uniform distribution, then synchronization is improved, but measurement and control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement and control function is divided into separate modular components: phase measurement circuitry that detects phase differences, and control circuitry that independently adjusts clock phases. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized for its specific function, improving synchronization while keeping individual module complexities manageable and enabling independent testing and calibration.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a system where indicators of the relative phase differences between combinations of clocks in a multi-phase clock system are developed and/or measured. These indicators convey information regarding which phase difference between a given pair of the clocks is greater than (or less than) the phase difference between another pair of the clocks. This information is used to sort/rank/order phase differences between the various combinations of pairs of clocks according to their phase differences. This ranking is used to select the pair of clocks to be adjusted.