Single-Crystal Frequency Generator for Low-Power Multi-Clock Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic systems require multiple crystal frequency sources to generate various frequencies, leading to high power consumption, phase noise, and reduced stability, with no viable techniques to eliminate the need for multiple crystals.
Innovation Solution
A micro-power integrated circuit frequency generator using a single high frequency quartz crystal to generate multiple clock frequencies, eliminating the need for multiple crystals by employing a single crystal with semiconductor technology, which reduces power consumption and improves stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a high frequency crystal is used to generate reference frequency, then phase noise and stability are improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the frequency generation function into two parts: a high frequency crystal provides the reference frequency with excellent phase noise and stability characteristics, while a separate frequency synthesizer generates the required system frequencies. This segmentation allows the high frequency crystal to be used only when needed for reference, reducing its power consumption impact, while the synthesizer handles the bulk of frequency generation tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The frequency synthesizer is designed to be a universal device that can generate multiple system frequencies from a single high frequency reference. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple dedicated crystals for different frequencies, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining the phase noise and stability benefits of the high frequency reference.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple crystal frequency sources are used to generate various frequencies, then frequency versatility is improved, but device complexity and board space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frequency synthesizer serves as a universal frequency generation device that can produce multiple system frequencies from a single high frequency crystal reference. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for multiple dedicated crystals, reducing device complexity and board space while maintaining full frequency generation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple frequency generation functions into a single frequency synthesizer device. Instead of having separate crystals for different frequencies, the synthesizer merges these functions, using one high frequency reference to generate all required system frequencies, thereby reducing the number of components and simplifying the overall system.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a low frequency crystal is used to reduce power consumption, then power consumption is reduced, but phase noise and stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The frequency synthesizer acts as an intermediary device that bridges the gap between low power consumption and high quality frequency generation. It uses the high frequency crystal reference (when powered) to generate accurate frequencies through synthesis, allowing the system to achieve low average power consumption while maintaining phase noise and stability characteristics when frequency generation is required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic action by powering the high frequency crystal reference only when needed for frequency synthesis operations, rather than continuously. This periodic activation reduces average power consumption while ensuring that phase noise and stability are maintained during the periods when the crystal is active and generating reference frequencies for the synthesizer.
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
The solution enables the generation of low frequencies with high accuracy and low power consumption, reducing board space and increasing reliability by using a single crystal, while maintaining comparable performance to multiple crystals, thus addressing the limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
A micro-power integrated circuit frequency generator using a single high frequency quartz crystal to generate multiple clock frequencies
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit frequency generator is disclosed. In some embodiments, the frequency generator comprises an electronic oscillator configured to generate an oscillator frequency and calibration circuitry configured to periodically calibrate the electronic oscillator with respect to a reference frequency source. When a primary power source is unavailable, an output frequency is generated from the oscillator frequency, and the reference frequency source is powered-on only during calibration cycles.