Multiplexer Phase Alignment Using Feedback Clock Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In high-speed multiplexer circuitry, accurately latching data signals across signal lines with unknown or varying delays due to PVT variations is challenging, especially as semiconductor device sizes miniaturize and operating pressures increase.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multiplexer circuitry with a data transmitter, a control unit comprising a data receiver and phase detector, and a phase rotator, which synchronizes data signals with reception clock signals, measures phase differences, and adjusts transmission clock signals to align with target phases, ensuring accurate data recovery across signal lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If data is transmitted across signal lines in high-speed multiplexer circuitry, then transmission speed increases, but phase alignment accuracy deteriorates due to unknown or varying delays from PVT variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the phase detector continuously monitors the phase difference between received data signals and reception clock signals, and the phase rotator adjusts the transmission clock signal phase based on this feedback to maintain accurate alignment despite PVT variations
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the phase parameter of the transmission clock signal through the phase rotator, adjusting it in response to detected phase errors to compensate for varying delays caused by process, voltage, and temperature variations
2Productivity
If semiconductor device sizes are miniaturized to increase integration, then device density increases, but operating accuracy deteriorates due to increased pressure and variability
Solution Approach 1:
The multiplexer circuitry performs self-calibration and self-correction by using its own internal resources (phase detector, phase rotator) to automatically detect and compensate for phase alignment errors, ensuring accurate operation without external intervention despite miniaturization effects
3Measurement precision
If phase adjustment is implemented to compensate for PVT variations, then data recovery accuracy improves, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the phase detector and phase rotator functions within the multiplexer circuitry, integrating them as cohesive components that work together to achieve phase alignment without requiring separate external calibration systems, thereby managing complexity while maintaining accuracy
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to phase alignment, in particular to phase alignment circuitry (and parts thereof) for example for use in a multiplexer or other circuitry in which data is transmitted from one stage to another. Consideration is given to phase detection and phase rotation. Such circuitry may be implemented as integrated circuitry, for example on an IC chip.