Investigating Frequency Change in a Ring Oscillator

In summary, adding an extra inverter to the output of a ring oscillator can result in a decrease in operating frequency due to the increased propagation time of the input signal.
  • #1
SMOF
75
0
Hello,

I am hoping someone can give me some advice.

I am playing about with the design of a ring oscillator in an electronics simulations package. The ring has 5 inverters. As part of the assignment we were asked to ad in an extra inverter to the output of the ring and see if there was a change in operating frequency, and there was. It dropped from about 92 MHz without the extra inverter to about 81 MHz with it.

Is this change in operating frequency due to the fact that because there is an extra inverter, the time it takes for an input signal to propagate through the system, and because time relates to frequency, the longer the time, the slower the frequency?

I'd be very grateful for anyones input.

Thanks in advance.

Seán
 
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  • #2
SMOF said:
Is this change in operating frequency due to the fact that because there is an extra inverter, the time it takes for an input signal to propagate through the system, and because time relates to frequency, the longer the time, the slower the frequency?


Yes, the frequency is related to the delay like you suggest.
 

Related to Investigating Frequency Change in a Ring Oscillator

1. What is a ring oscillator?

A ring oscillator is a type of electronic oscillator that produces a continuous electrical signal without the need for an external input. It consists of an odd number of inverters connected in a loop, creating a feedback path that causes the output to oscillate.

2. Why is frequency change important to investigate in a ring oscillator?

Frequency change in a ring oscillator can affect the overall performance and stability of electronic devices that use it. By understanding and controlling the frequency change, we can optimize the design and ensure reliable operation.

3. How is frequency change measured in a ring oscillator?

Frequency change is typically measured by observing the output signal with an oscilloscope and calculating the period of oscillation. It can also be measured by counting the number of oscillations in a given time period.

4. What factors can cause frequency change in a ring oscillator?

Frequency change can be caused by variations in the supply voltage, temperature, or load conditions. It can also be affected by the characteristics of the individual inverters used in the oscillator.

5. How can frequency change be controlled in a ring oscillator?

Frequency change can be controlled by using components with tighter tolerances, such as resistors and capacitors. The number of inverters in the loop and the feedback path can also be adjusted to achieve the desired frequency. Additionally, temperature compensation techniques can be employed to minimize the effects of temperature on frequency change.

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