Generation of topology independent reference signals

Abstract

A method and structure for providing plurality signals which are substantially synchronous at a plurality of distant points within a system is approached from a different point of view. Rather than employing a plurality of delays for adding various delay times to certain leads carrying the signal in question, in accordance with the teachings of this invention two separate leads are used to route such a signal within a system. The receiving circuitry are connected to the two leads carrying the signal in opposite order, that is the first receiver connected to the first lead is the last receiver connected to the second lead, the second receiver connected to the first lead is the next to last receiver connected to the second lead, and so on. In this manner, the average of the propagation delays between the first and second leads at any given receiver is substantially equal. A locally derived signal is generated for each of the receivers based upon the two signals provided by the source. Each of the locally generated signals are substantially synchronized. In one embodiment, a novel circuit is employed to generate a local signal for application to a particular receiver which includes a phase lock loop employing two phase detectors, one for comparing the phase of each of the two signals provided by source at the location of the receiver in question.