SPI Round Robin Mode for Single-Cycle MUX Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing SPI technologies face limitations in versatility and efficiency for multiplexing, switching, and isolation applications while maintaining inherent SPI mode functionality, particularly in terms of speed and flexibility compared to parallel control methods.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of SPI Round Robin Mode allows for sequential channel sequencing in a single clock cycle, enabling MUX output to connect to the next input channel, with configurable options for clock edges and channel sequences, and the use of a register to dynamically switch between modes, enhancing multiplexing and switching capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional SPI sequential control methods are used, then device control and operation are maintained, but throughput is limited and latency is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements round robin mode where the MUX automatically cycles through multiple channels in a periodic sequence triggered by a single SPI clock cycle. This periodic action allows sequential channel switching without requiring multiple sequential SPI transactions, thereby increasing throughput and reducing latency while maintaining SPI device control
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures the channel sequence and timing parameters in advance through SPI registration before operation begins. This preliminary configuration enables the MUX to execute rapid sequential channel switching without requiring real-time SPI commands for each channel transition, thus improving throughput while preserving SPI-based device control
2Speed
If parallel control methods are used, then speed is improved, but versatility and SPI mode functionality are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a hybrid control system that combines the speed of parallel control methods with the versatility of SPI mode functionality. The MUX can operate in multiple modes including traditional SPI sequential control and new round robin mode, making the system universally applicable to both speed-critical and versatility-critical applications while maintaining SPI device control and operation
3Productivity
If traditional sequential channel switching is used, then SPI device control is maintained, but throughput is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The MUX is equipped with internal round robin sequencing logic that automatically cycles through channels without requiring external SPI commands for each channel switch. This self-service mechanism increases throughput significantly while requiring only minimal SPI intervention for initial configuration, thus improving productivity without substantially increasing device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
SPI Round Robin Mode for Single-Cycle MUX Channel Sequencing. SPI round robin mode is an SPI mode applicable for MUX devices control. It allows the MUX output to connect to the next input channel sequentially in just one clock cycle. Configurations can be made such as: clock edge to use (rising/falling), ascending/descending channel sequence, and enabling/disabling the channels to go through. The device supersedes an ADC with built in sequencing and is applicable to multiplexing, switching, instrumentation, process control and isolation application—while retaining SPI device control and operation.