Self-Calibrating Frequency Generator for Faster Frequency Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing frequency generation ICs require separate frequency measuring instruments and PCs for frequency correction, leading to lengthy measurement and stabilization times due to communication delays and the need for external devices.
Innovation Solution
A frequency generator with an integrated frequency corrector that automatically adjusts the output frequency using a reference signal, employing search and tracking modes to quickly and precisely match the oscillator's frequency to a reference frequency, eliminating the need for external instruments and reducing correction time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate frequency measuring instrument and PC are used for frequency correction, then frequency measurement accuracy is improved, but frequency test time and correction time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the frequency measuring instrument and PC into the frequency generation IC itself by integrating a frequency counter and control unit directly within the IC. This allows the IC to measure its own output frequency and automatically generate correction signals without external devices, thereby eliminating communication delays and significantly reducing frequency test and correction times while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The frequency generation IC performs self-diagnosis and self-correction by incorporating a frequency counter that measures its own output frequency and a control unit that generates correction signals based on the measured frequency. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external measuring instruments and PCs, reducing time losses associated with external communication and setup.
2Measurement precision
If external frequency measuring instruments and PCs are required for frequency correction, then frequency measurement capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the frequency measurement and control functions into a single integrated circuit by incorporating a frequency counter and control unit within the frequency generation IC. This integration reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for separate external instruments and PCs, while maintaining full frequency measurement and correction capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The frequency generation IC is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a frequency generator and a frequency measurement device. The integrated frequency counter and control unit enable the IC to perform self-diagnosis and self-correction, reducing the need for external specialized equipment and simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Ease of operation
If communication between frequency generation IC, frequency measuring instrument, and PC is required, then frequency control capability is improved, but communication time and stabilization time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frequency generation IC performs self-diagnosis and self-correction by incorporating a frequency counter that measures its own output frequency and a control unit that generates correction signals based on the measured frequency. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external measuring instruments and PCs, reducing time losses associated with external communication and setup.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the frequency counter continuously monitors the output frequency of the IC and feeds this information back to the control unit. The control unit then adjusts the frequency control signal based on this feedback to maintain accurate frequency output, eliminating the need for external feedback loops and reducing communication delays.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are a frequency generator, which is provided with a frequency automatic correction function and is capable of reducing a frequency test time and a correction time, and a method of correcting a frequency thereof. The frequency generator includes an oscillator configured to generate an output frequency signal according to a frequency control signal, and a frequency corrector configured to generate the frequency control signal for controlling the output frequency of the oscillator using a reference frequency signal.