A survey on time interval measurement techniques and testing methods

The most frequently utilized techniques for precise time interval measurements are discussed. By analyzing the characteristics of both published architectures and commercial Time-to-Digital Converters (TDCs), the most significant testing methods are also considered. Related performance parameters, useful for calibrating such devices and compensating any deviations from the expected behavior, are also identified. Since full standardization activities in this field have not been carried out yet, the proposed results may reduce terminology and definition ambiguities, allowing an easier comparison between different TDC architectures. To this aim, an overall Figure of Merit is also introduced and evaluated for several published TDCs.