Isochronous SFQ-to-RQL Receiver for Clock Phase Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
In superconducting inter-chip communication systems, particularly in reciprocal quantum logic (RQL) systems, the unknown or arbitrary phase relation between clock signals for transmission and reception hinders effective data signal processing, as traditional clock recovery methods are not applicable when the clock signal is used as a power source.
Innovation Solution
An isochronous receiver system is developed, comprising a single flux quantum (SFQ) receiver that converts data signals to SFQ signals, which are then converted to reciprocal quantum logic (RQL) signals and phase-aligned with an AC clock signal using an SFQ to RQL converter system, ensuring alignment with the sampling phase despite unknown phase relations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional clock recovery methods are used, then clock synchronization can be achieved, but they are not applicable when the clock signal is used as a power source in RQL systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary AC clock signal that couples the transmitter and receiver without being the primary power source. This AC clock serves as a mediator that enables phase relationship establishment between transmitter and receiver clock domains, allowing synchronization without directly interfering with the RQL power supply function
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters by using an AC-coupled clock signal with specific frequency and phase characteristics. The AC clock signal parameters are controlled to establish a known phase relationship while maintaining the DC power supply function separate from the clock synchronization function
2Adaptability or versatility
If clock signals are generated from multiple sources or transmitted across inter-chip communication, then system flexibility is improved, but the phase relation between transmitter and receiver clock signals becomes unknown or arbitrary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the AC clock signal phase relationship is monitored and used to adjust the receiver sampling timing. This feedback loop establishes and maintains a known phase relationship between transmitter and receiver despite clock signals being generated from multiple sources or transmitted across chips
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary phase alignment by coupling the AC clock signal through the transmission line before actual data transmission begins. This preliminary action establishes the phase relationship in advance, allowing the receiver to be properly synchronized before receiving data with unknown phase relations
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables reliable data signal reception and processing in RQL systems by aligning RQL output signals with the AC clock signal, accommodating arbitrary phase relationships and ensuring accurate data transfer across inter-chip communication.
Implementation Method 1
a single flux quantum (SFQ) receiver configured to receive a data signal from a transmission line and to convert the data signal to an SFQ signal
Implementation Method 2
a converter system configured to convert the SFQ signal to an RQL signal and to phase-align the RQL signal with a sampling phase of an AC clock signal
Data Source
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AI summary
One example includes an isochronous receiver system. The system includes a single flux quantum (SFQ) receiver configured to receive a data signal from a transmission line and to convert the data signal to an SFQ signal. The system also includes a converter system configured to convert the SFQ signal to a reciprocal quantum logic (RQL) signal and to phase-align the RQL signal with a sampling phase of an AC clock signal.