Design of resonant clock distribution networks for 3-D integrated circuits

Abstract

Designing a low power clock network in synchronous circuits is an important task. This requirement is stricter for 3-D circuits due to the increased power densities. Resonant clock networks are considered efficient low-power alternatives to conventional clock distribution schemes. These networks utilize additional inductive circuits to reduce the power consumption while delivering a full swing clock signal to the sink nodes. A design method for 3-D resonant clock networks is presented. The proposed design technique supports resonant operation for pre-bond test, an important requirement for 3-D ICs. Several 3-D clock network topologies are explored in a 0.18 μm CMOS technology. Simulation results indicate 43% reduction in the power consumed by the resonant 3-D clock network as compared to a conventional buffered clock network. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.