Performance Analysis of GALS Datalink Based on Pausible Clocking

In this paper we present the performance analysis of point-to-point GALS data links based on pausible clocking. The average synchronization latency and data throughput in the burst-mode communication are analytically addressed, taking the I/O port interconnect delay and the clock-tree propagation delay into account. The upper bounds for the throughput-tolerant clock tree and interconnect delays are derived. As an example, based on the pausible clocking scheme, a GALS OFDM base band transmitter, named Moon rake, was designed. Comprehensive simulations were carried out to evaluate and optimize the performance of GALS system with regards to different I/O port behaviors as well as interconnect and clock-tree delays.