Parallel-Slice RF DAC Architecture for Spectral Mask Compliance

The converter is divided into multiple parallel slices (K slices), each processing a portion of the data at a lower sample rate. This segmentation allows the system to achieve the required spectral purity through parallel processing of lower-rate signals rather than a single high-rate converter, thereby reducing power consumption and area while maintaining spectral performance.

The converter architecture is segmented into K parallel slices, each operating at a reduced sample rate. This division reduces the area requirement for each individual slice compared to a single high-rate converter, while the parallel combination achieves the required spectral purity. The segmented approach allows for more efficient area utilization in CMOS technology.

The patent combines synchronous processing with parallel architecture by merging multiple synchronized slices that operate at the same clock frequency. This unified synchronous approach eliminates the calibration and manufacturing difficulties associated with asynchronous designs, while still achieving the required spectral purity through the parallel slice structure. All slices are clocked synchronously, simplifying timing and calibration.