Configurable Phase-Alignment Receivers for FPGA Data Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Programmable logic devices often lack dynamic phase alignment capabilities, leading to reduced transceiver functionality and lost benefits in high-speed data capture operations, as they opt for less complex circuitry to minimize overhead.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating user-configurable receivers with dynamic phase alignment circuitry, utilizing phase-locked-loop circuits to generate an eight-phase dynamic phase alignment clock signal and a configurable clock distribution architecture, allowing for optimal clock phase selection during data capture operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hardwired transceiver circuitry with dynamic phase alignment capabilities is included, then data capture performance is improved, but device complexity and overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic phase alignment circuitry that can be configured and programmed at runtime rather than being fixed hardwired. The circuitry includes programmable logic elements and multiplexers that can be dynamically adjusted to select optimal clock phases, allowing the system to adapt its phase alignment capabilities based on actual performance needs while maintaining a more flexible and less complex overall architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of phase alignment from fixed hardwired connections to programmable configurable parameters. By using programmable logic elements and control registers, the phase alignment characteristics can be modified through software or configuration data, enabling the same hardware to serve multiple functions and reducing the need for dedicated hardwired circuitry for each specific phase alignment scenario.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex transceiver circuitry with dynamic phase alignment is used, then transceiver functionality is improved, but resource availability for other logic functions decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the transceiver circuitry to serve multiple purposes: the programmable logic elements can function as both phase alignment control logic and general-purpose logic resources when dynamic phase alignment is not required. The same configurable circuitry that provides sophisticated transceiver capabilities when needed can be repurposed or deactivated to free up resources for other logic functions, maximizing the utility of available hardware resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuitry is designed to be dynamically configurable, allowing the system to switch between different operational modes. When dynamic phase alignment is needed, the circuitry operates in that mode; when not needed, the resources can be dynamically reallocated to other logic functions through reconfiguration, providing both high transceiver capability and resource efficiency at different times.
3Device complexity
If limited transceiver functionality without dynamic phase alignment is implemented, then device complexity is reduced, but data capture performance is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates preliminary phase alignment measurement and calibration capabilities that are performed before normal data capture operations. The system includes circuitry that can pre-measure signal characteristics and pre-determine optimal phase alignments, storing these settings for later use. This preliminary action ensures that when data capture begins, the system is already optimized for performance without requiring complex real-time adjustments during actual data operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The configurable dynamic phase alignment circuitry includes self-calibration and self-optimization capabilities. The system can automatically measure signal quality, identify optimal clock phases, and adjust its own configuration without external intervention. This self-service approach maintains high data capture performance while reducing the need for external complex control systems, as the transceiver essentially configures itself for optimal performance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables dynamic phase alignment data capture and resynchronization, optimizing data transfer in designs that require it, while freeing resources for other logic functions when not needed, thus enhancing performance and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
One or more phase-locked-loop circuits may be used to generate an eight-phase dynamic phase alignment clock signal
Data Source
AI summary
Programmable logic device integrated circuits are provided that have configurable receivers with dynamic phase alignment capabilities. In situations in which receivers require dynamic phase alignment circuitry, programmable logic elements can be configured to implement a dynamic phase alignment data capture and synchronization circuit. In situations in which dynamic phase alignment receiver circuitry is not required, resources are made available for implementing other user logic. Multiple dynamic phase alignment receiver circuits can share an eight-phase dynamic phase alignment clock signal that is generated by a phase-locked-loop circuit. Switches may be configured to selectively route the dynamic phase alignment clock signal to desired locations on the programmable logic device integrated circuit.