Distributed Phase Correction Technique

We broadly use the term phase alignment to encompass the repositioning of edges in one signal with respect to edges in another ``reference´´ signal. This paper introduces a phase alignment block, and exemplifies its operation in a couple of separate contexts. A recurring theme in these contexts is the use of phase alignment via temporal- and spatial-mixing/multiplexing. We term both forms of mixing as performing ``distributed´´ phase correction. The distinguishing feature in these contexts is the employment of the phase alignment block to either enhance or add additional functionality to conventional timing blocks. In the context of a voltage controlled delay line for a delay locked loop (DLL), we examine how the distributed mixing reduces both jitter and duty cycle disturbances. And in the context of a phase error detector and correction block for a phase locked loop (PLL), we examine how distributed coupling adds a design dimension in terms of trading off phase correction gain versus cycle jitter.