Patent ID: 6292062
Filing Date: 2001-09-18
Classification: G04F,G04G,G06F,H03L

Abstract:
A high-precision interval timer comprising:a) at least one high-speed optimal oscillator generating at least one high frequency optimal clock signal;b) a divide-by counter, operatively coupled to the at least one high frequency optimal clock signal, wherein the divide-by counter divides down the at least one high frequency optimal clock signal thereby producing a divided-down optimal clock signal;c) a non-optimal low-speed oscillator generating a low frequency non-optimal clock signal;d) a swallow counter, operatively coupled to the low frequency non-optimal clock signal, wherein the swallow counter deletes selected pulses of the low frequency non-optimal clock signal over a pre-determined time period, and wherein the swallow counter thereby outputs a swallow counter clock signal having a desired frequency;e) a switch means, operatively coupled to the swallow counter and the divide-by counter; andf) a mode change means, operatively coupled to the switch means, wherein the mode change means causes the switch means to route the divided-down optimal clock signal to an output of the switch means when the interval timer is in a first mode of operation, and wherein the mode change means causes the switch means to route the swallow counter clock signal to the output of the switch means when the interval timer is in a second mode of operation.