Differential Receiver Latch with Selective Node Reset and Equalization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Semiconductor receiver circuits face challenges in achieving high receiving efficiency while being insensitive to input noise and operating with low current consumption.

Innovation Solution

The proposed receiver circuit includes a latch unit that changes logic levels of differential output terminals based on input data, a reset unit for equalization, and a control unit that generates control signals for selective node resetting, allowing for simultaneous reset and equalization functions without additional transistors, thereby improving efficiency and reducing current consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the receiver circuit uses conventional separate reset and equalization circuits, then the reset function and equalization function can be performed, but the circuit complexity increases and current consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereceiving efficiencyVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the reset function and equalization function into a single integrated circuit block. The reset unit performs both functions by selectively resetting intermediate nodes based on control signals, eliminating the need for separate reset and equalization circuits. This merging reduces circuit complexity while maintaining both functions' effectiveness, directly resolving the technical contradiction between reliability and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If the receiver circuit uses conventional separate reset and equalization circuits, then the reset function and equalization function can be performed, but the current consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereceiving efficiencyVSAvoidcurrent consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges reset and equalization functions into one circuit unit that operates selectively based on control signals. By using a single integrated structure instead of two separate circuits, the total current consumption is reduced while both functions remain effective. The control unit enables the reset unit to perform appropriate operations dynamically, optimizing energy usage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If the receiver circuit is designed to be insensitive to input noise, then the receiving efficiency improves, but the circuit complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenoise immunityVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the control unit monitors the state of intermediate nodes and generates appropriate control signals to maintain optimal operation. This feedback approach enables the circuit to automatically adjust and maintain noise immunity without requiring complex additional circuits. The feedback-based control achieves noise insensitivity while keeping the circuit structure relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

4Use of energy by moving object

If the receiver circuit operates with low current, then the current consumption reduces, but the receiving efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurrent consumptionVSAvoidreceiving efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses periodic control signals to activate the reset function at appropriate intervals rather than continuously. The control unit generates control signals based on the reset condition and previous input data, enabling the reset unit to perform equalization and reset operations periodically when needed. This periodic action maintains receiving efficiency while significantly reducing average current consumption compared to continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS9520882B2Receiver circuit of semiconductor apparatus
Publication Date: 2016.12.13 SK HYNIX INC
  • US9520882B2 patent drawing
  • US9520882B2 patent drawing
  • US9520882B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A receiver circuit of a semiconductor apparatus may include, a latch comprising differential input terminals and differential output terminals. The receiver circuit may also include a control unit configured to selectively reset first and second intermediate nodes coupled between the differential input terminals and the differential output terminals according to previous data.