Retiming Circuit Module Multipath Signal Transmission Path Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
As signal transmission speeds increase on printed circuit boards, signal attenuation becomes more significant, leading to delays and inefficiencies in equalizer calibration during frequency adjustments, necessitating improved methods to enhance calibration efficiency at the signal receiving end.
Innovation Solution
A retiming circuit module with a path control circuit and multipath signal transmission circuit that detects data sequences to switch between signal transmission paths, utilizing a low latency path for initial frequency adjustments and switching back to a high latency path after calibration, thereby optimizing equalizer calibration efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If a retimer is added to extend signal transmission distance, then signal transmission distance is improved, but data transmission delay time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the signal transmission path into multiple segments (first signal transmission path and second signal transmission path) with different characteristics. The first path is optimized for speed with fewer circuit elements, while the second path is optimized for signal quality with more circuit elements including equalizer circuits. This segmentation allows the system to choose the appropriate path based on transmission distance requirements, thereby extending effective transmission distance while minimizing delay.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic path switching capability where the system can transition between different signal transmission paths based on real-time requirements. The path control circuit detects data sequences and controls the multipath signal transmission circuit to switch between paths, allowing the system to dynamically optimize for either speed or signal quality depending on whether equalizer calibration is needed or normal data transmission is occurring.
2Adaptability or versatility
If signal transmission frequency is adjusted, then signal transmission adaptability is improved, but equalizer calibration time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by performing equalizer calibration in advance during dedicated calibration periods using the second signal transmission path. The path control circuit detects calibration data sequences and switches to the second path before frequency adjustments occur, allowing the equalizer to be calibrated proactively. This preliminary calibration ensures the system is ready for frequency changes without causing transmission delays during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (path control circuit and multipath signal transmission circuit) that mediates between frequency adjustment requirements and transmission continuity. This intermediary detects data sequences indicating calibration needs and automatically manages the switching between calibration mode (second path) and normal transmission mode (first path), thereby enabling frequency adaptability while minimizing calibration time impact on overall transmission.
Data Source
AI summary
A retiming circuit module, a signal transmission system, and a signal transmission method are provided. The retiming circuit module includes a path control circuit and a multipath signal transmission circuit. The multipath signal transmission circuit includes built-in first signal transmission path and second signal transmission path. The multipath signal transmission circuit may perform first signal transmission between an upstream device and a downstream device based on a first signal transmission frequency and the second signal transmission path. During a period of performing the first signal transmission, the path control circuit may detect a first data sequence transmitted between the upstream device and the downstream device. The path control circuit may control the multipath signal transmission circuit to switch to perform second signal transmission between the upstream device and the downstream device based on the first signal transmission frequency and the first signal transmission path according to the first data sequence.