Clock Signal Pulse-Count Feedback for Stable Memory Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional semiconductor memory devices face instability in clock signals due to environmental factors like temperature and voltage, leading to unreliable data communication with hosts.
Innovation Solution
A clock signal generator with a control unit that counts pulses during a reference time, compares the count to a reference value, and adjusts the clock signal frequency based on the comparison result to maintain stability, ensuring efficient data communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the smart card generates its own clock signal during data communication with the host, then the smart card can operate independently, but the clock signal becomes unstable due to environmental factors such as temperature and voltage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the clock signal control unit continuously monitors the clock signal characteristics and dynamically adjusts the clock signal generation unit's operation. The control unit counts clock pulses during a reference time period, compares the count with a reference value, and generates control signals to increase or decrease the number of clock pulses accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system compensates for environmental variations and maintains stable clock signal frequency despite temperature and voltage changes.
2Reliability
If the clock signal frequency is adjusted dynamically to maintain stability, then clock signal stability improves, but the system complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The clock signal control unit performs self-adjustment by autonomously monitoring its own generated clock signal and making necessary corrections without external intervention. The control unit counts the clock pulses it generates, compares the count with a stored reference value, and automatically adjusts the clock signal generation unit's pulse output based on the comparison result. This self-service approach maintains clock stability while minimizing the need for complex external control systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
A clock signal generator can include a clock signal generation unit that is configured to generate a clock signal. A clock signal control unit is configured to count a number of pulses of the clock signal during a reference time, and to compare the number of pulses with a reference value to provide a comparison result, and to generate a control signal based on the comparison result, where the clock signal generation unit increases or decreases the number of pulses of the clock signal based on the control signal.