Translational Filter BIST for High-Frequency Signal Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current signal processing systems face high testing costs due to the need for external high-frequency signal sources, especially in systems where the dynamic output range of transmitting and receiving circuits differ, or when simultaneous operations are not allowed, and in systems lacking a transmitting circuit.
Innovation Solution
A signal processing system with a built-in self-test (BIST) function utilizing a translational filter that generates a high-frequency testing signal within the chip, comprising an oscillation signal generator, a mixer, and a testing module, allowing for internal signal generation and reduction of overall testing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external high-frequency signal sources are used for testing, then testing accuracy is improved, but testing cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses its own oscillation signal generator and translational filter to generate testing signals internally, eliminating the need for external high-frequency signal sources. The receiving circuit tests itself by generating the testing signal and processing it through its own components, achieving self-diagnosis without requiring expensive external testing equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The oscillation signal generator and translational filter serve dual purposes: they function as normal system components during operational mode and as testing signal generators during testing mode. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware to perform both system operation and self-testing, eliminating the need for separate external testing apparatuses.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a transmitting circuit is added to enable loopback testing, then testing capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving circuit generates its own testing signal using the oscillation signal generator and translational filter, then processes it through its signal processing units. This self-service approach eliminates the need for a separate transmitting circuit, as the receiving circuit can autonomously create and process testing signals without requiring additional transmitting components.
Solution Approach 2:
The oscillation signal generator and translational filter are pre-configured within the receiving circuit during manufacturing. These components are ready to generate testing signals immediately when needed, eliminating the need for adding transmitting circuits during system assembly or operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If external testing apparatuses are used, then testing functionality is improved, but device area and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The oscillation signal generator, translational filter, and testing functionality are merged into the receiving circuit itself. By combining these components that would traditionally be separate external apparatuses into the receiving circuit's integrated architecture, the system achieves comprehensive testing functionality without requiring additional external equipment or increasing overall device area.
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 significantly lowers testing costs by enabling internal generation of high-frequency testing signals, making it applicable to systems without a transmitting circuit and reducing the need for external testing apparatuses, while maintaining effective functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The translational filter includes a mixer controlled by the oscillation signal. The mixer has a high-frequency side and a low-frequency side. The testing module provides a testing signal to the low-frequency side, so as to generate a high-frequency testing signal at the high-frequency side of the mixer.
Data Source
AI summary
A signal processing system includes a module under test, an oscillation signal generator, a translational filter, and a testing module. The module under test has a signal input end. The oscillation signal generator generates an oscillation signal. The translational filter includes a mixer controlled by the oscillation signals. The mixer has a high-frequency side and a low-frequency side. The high-frequency side is coupled to the signal input end of the module under test. The testing module is coupled to the low-frequency side of the mixer. When the signal processing system is in a testing mode, the testing module provides a testing signal to the low-frequency side, so as to generate a high-frequency testing signal at the high-frequency side of the mixer.