Shared Oscillator I/O Switching for External Resonator Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Microcontrollers require two pairs of input/output cells for high-frequency and low-frequency oscillators, limiting user flexibility and increasing board design constraints, while also using less accurate internal resonators when trying to reduce the number of input/output cells.
Innovation Solution
A microcontroller design that includes a shared pair of input/output cells connected to both oscillators via a switching circuit, allowing either oscillator to be connected to the same pair of cells, thereby reducing the number of dedicated input/output cells and enhancing board design flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two separate pairs of input/output cells are assigned for high-frequency and low-frequency oscillators, then each oscillator has dedicated input/output cells, but the number of input/output cells increases and user flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a shared pair of input/output cells that can be universally used by either the high-frequency oscillator or the low-frequency oscillator through a switching circuit. This multi-functional design allows one pair of input/output cells to serve multiple purposes, replacing the need for two separate dedicated pairs, thereby increasing user flexibility while maintaining reliable oscillator operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic switching mechanism that allows the assignment of the shared input/output cells to different oscillators based on operational needs. The switching circuit enables dynamic reconfiguration, where the same physical input/output cells can be dynamically assigned to either the high-frequency or low-frequency oscillator, providing adaptability without sacrificing operational reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of input/output cells is decreased to free up resources, then more input/output cells are available for other uses, but the microcontroller may be forced to use less accurate internal resonators
Solution Approach 1:
By making the input/output cells universal and shareable between oscillators, the patent enables the system to support external resonators for both high-frequency and low-frequency oscillators using only one shared pair of input/output cells. This allows the microcontroller to maintain high measurement precision through external resonators while freeing up other input/output cells for additional uses.
3Ease of operation
If dedicated input/output cells are assigned for each oscillator, then oscillator operation is simplified, but circuit board design flexibility is constrained by fixed site locations
Solution Approach 1:
The shared input/output cells provide a universal connection interface that can accommodate either the high-frequency or low-frequency oscillator. This universality maintains ease of operation through a standardized connection interface while simultaneously improving circuit board design flexibility, as designers can place the resonator at various locations on the board and connect it to the shared input/output cells without being constrained by fixed dedicated locations for each oscillator.
Data Source
AI summary
A shared pair of input/output cells configured to be able to be connected to a first external resonator or a second external resonator. A first oscillator and a second oscillator are coupled to the shared pair input/output cells by a switching circuit. The switching circuit is configured to be able to connect either the first oscillator or the second oscillator to the pair of input/output cells.