Frequency converter utilizing a feedback control loop

Abstract

A monolithic frequency converter using a feedback control loop generates a source of synthesized frequency signals over a wide dynamic range based on a timing source such as a crystal oscillator or an external frequency source. The frequency converter includes a controlled oscillator, a frequency counter, a timing signal generator and, connected between the frequency counter and the controlled oscillator, a digital to analog converter and a difference integrator. The controlled oscillator generates a clock signal at a frequency controlled by an electrical signal. The difference integrator is connected to an input signal terminal and connected to the timing signal generator. The difference integrator determines a difference signal between the input signal and a signal operated upon by the digital to analog converter and integrates the difference signal under control of a timing signal generated by the timing signal generator. The frequency converter has a highly linear transfer function which is established by the resolution of a frequency counter. For example, a transfer function having approximately 0.1% accuracy in linearity is achieved using a 10-bit resolution frequency counter. Using indirect frequency synthesis, the controlled oscillator generates precisely controlled timing signals.