Microprocessor with distributed clock generators

Details Microprocessor with distributed clock generators Microprocessor with distributed clock generators

1992-12-28

1995-08-22

Callahan, Timothy P.

Miscellaneous active electrical nonlinear devices, circuits, and

Signal converting, shaping, or generating

Clock or pulse waveform generating

327292, 327415, G06F 104, H03K 3013

Patent

active

054444071

ABSTRACT:
A distributed clock generation scheme is provided for a microprocessor that reduces electromagnetic interference and power consumption. Rather than using a single, large internal clock generator circuit that meets the drive requirements of the remaining circuitry upon the microprocessor die, a plurality of smaller clock generator circuits are distributed across the die, each generating clock signals to drive a separate portion of the microprocessor circuitry. Each of the distributed clock generator circuits may be load matched with respect to the others to minimize the skew between clock signals, and each receives a synchronized timing signal provided from a master timing distribution circuit. As a result of the distributed clock generation scheme, the amount of current and the rate at which current is sourced or sunk at a given location on the semiconductor die is reduced, thereby reducing electromagnetic interference and increasing the signal to noise ratio. In addition, the loading upon the distributed clock generators due to the internal routing of the clock signals is decreased, also reducing electromagnetic interference and power consumption.

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