Optimal clock distribution with an array of phase-locked loops for multiprocessor chips

Martin Saint-Laurent, Payman Zarkesh-Ha, Madhavan Swaminathan, James D. Meindl

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

This paper discusses clock distribution for chips with multiple microprocessor cores. A model for clock distribution with an array of phase-locked loops (PLLs) is introduced. The model is used to derive an analytical expression describing the optimal design tradeoff between power dissipation and clock inaccuracy. With parameters typical for a 180-nm fabrication technology, a single PLL is optimal. Distributing the clock with multiple PLLs will not be interesting for the 130-nm technology generation either. At the 100-nm node, the emergence of chips with four PLLs is projected.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)454-457
Number of pages4
JournalMidwest Symposium on Circuits and Systems
Volume1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2001

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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