Programmable ADC Register Allocation for Multi-Channel Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microcontroller and microprocessor systems require a large number of comparators and registers for analog-digital conversion, leading to high switching effort and space requirements, especially in systems with multiple input channels.
Innovation Solution
An integrated circuit with a signal converter, specifically an analog-digital converter, that includes a plurality of registers with programmable control registers allowing flexible configuration of register functions, enabling efficient use of resources and reducing the number of required registers and comparators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large number of comparators and registers are used for analog-digital conversion in systems with multiple input channels, then conversion accuracy and channel capacity are improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal register structure where a single register can serve multiple functions depending on configuration. The register can operate as a data register for storing conversion results, as a counter register for counting comparisons, or as a temporary storage register. This multi-functionality is achieved through control signals that reconfigure the register's operation mode, eliminating the need for separate dedicated registers for each function and significantly reducing the total register count in multi-channel ADC systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functional elements into integrated units. Specifically, it merges the comparator logic with the register storage and control functions into a unified ADC module. The control unit integrates the management of multiple input channels, conversion process control, and register allocation into a single coordinated system, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining conversion accuracy
2Speed
If a large number of comparators are used for parallel analog-digital conversion, then conversion speed is improved, but switching effort and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by using a controlled sequence of comparison operations. Instead of all comparators operating continuously in parallel, the system performs conversions in controlled phases where comparators are activated only when needed. The counter register tracks and manages this periodic activation, enabling high-speed conversion while reducing average switching effort and power consumption compared to continuous parallel operation
3Reliability
If separate result registers are provided for each input channel, then data integrity and channel independence are improved, but space requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the register allocation flexible rather than static. A single pool of registers is dynamically assigned to different input channels based on which channel is currently being converted. The control unit manages this dynamic allocation, ensuring that the active channel has access to a result register while minimizing the total number of registers needed. This dynamic approach maintains data integrity through proper timing and control signals while significantly reducing the space required compared to having dedicated registers for each channel
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a signal converter, and to an integrated circuit having a signal converter, in particular an analog-digital converter is disclosed. One embodiment includes a plurality of registers, wherein the signal converter is designed and equipped such that the function of the registers each can be selected variably, in particular by programming corresponding control registers controlling the function of corresponding registers.