Timing Error Tolerant Circuit Technique for Low-Power Control Using AHL and Razor Flip-Flop
Authors: S Reena 
Published: September 2023

Timing error is now getting increased attention due to the high rate of error-occurrence on semiconductors. Even slight external disturbance can threaten the timing margin between successive clocks since the latest semiconductor operates with high frequency and small supply voltage. To deal with a timing error, many techniques have been introduced. Nevertheless, existing methods that mitigate a timing error mostly have time-delaying mechanisms and too complex operation, resulting in a timing problem on clock-based systems and hardware overhead. In this article, we propose a novel timing-error-tolerant method that can correct a timing error instantly through a simple mechanism. By modifying a clock in a flip-flop, the proposed system can recover a timing error without the loss of time in the clock-based system. Furthermore, due to the compact mechanism, the proposed system has low hardware overhead in comparison with existing timing-error-tolerant systems that can recover the error instantly. To verify our method, the proposed circuit was extensively simulated by addressing PVT variations. Moreover, it was implemented in several benchmark designs, including a microprocessor. The first section of this abstract provides an overview of the challenges posed by the increasing demand for low-power circuitry in modern electronic systems. As the technology node continues to shrink, power consumption becomes a paramount concern, requiring novel solutions that optimize both dynamic and static power dissipation. The subsequent section delves into the Adaptive Hybrid Latch (AHL) concept, elucidating its functionality and design principles. The AHL operates as a robust error-tolerant latch, capable of adapting to variations in process, voltage, and temperature (PVT) conditions. By dynamically adjusting the setup time, the AHL can circumvent timing errors and uphold circuit reliability, especially in scenarios where traditional latches and flip-flops may fail. Next, the abstract explores the Razor Flip-Flop technique and its integration with the AHL. The Razor Flip-Flop is an energy-efficient architecture that minimizes power consumption by exploiting the dependency between voltage swing and energy dissipation. By reducing the voltage swing and using a voltage reference to determine the state, the Razor Flip-Flop achieves notable energy savings. The subsequent sections present the implementation details and simulation results of the proposed timing error-tolerant circuit technique using AHL and Razor Flip-Flop. Through extensive simulations and comparisons with conventional circuits, the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed technique are showcased. Furthermore, the abstract addresses the impact of process variations and environmental factors on the performance of the integrated timing error-tolerant circuit. The proposed technique demonstrates robustness and resilience against these variations, making it well-suited for cutting-edge semiconductor technologies. Moreover, the abstract discusses the trade-offs between power savings, area overhead, and performance improvements when using the AHL and Razor Flip-Flop technique. It presents a comprehensive analysis of these trade-offs to offer designers an informed perspective while making critical decisions in the design phase. Finally, the abstract concludes with a summary of the contributions and advantages of the timing error-tolerant circuit technique using AHL and Razor Flip-Flop. It highlights the potential for widespread adoption of this innovative approach in low-power control circuit design for various applications, ranging from mobile device to high-performance computing systems.