Designers of digital systems inevitably face a choice between two types of the clock-generation integrated circuits: the Digital Logic Level (DLL) and the Phased Locked Loop (PLL). Both have their pros and cons, but which is right for your design? Let’s take a look.
What is DLL?
DLL integrated circuit, or DLL IC, is a type of integrated circuit that uses a delay-locked loop, or DLL, to control the timing of its internal operations. DLL ICs are used in a variety of electronic devices, including computers, cell phones, and digital cameras. DLLs are used to ensure that the timing of the internal operations of the IC is accurate. In addition, DLLs can also be used to improve the performance of the IC by reducing power consumption. DLL ICs are typically made using CMOS technology.
What is PLL?
PLL integrated circuit, also known as a phase-locked loop, is a type of electronic circuit used to generate and control an oscillating signal. The key components of a PLL are a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) and a feedback loop. The VCO produces an AC signal, which is then fed back into the PLL through the feedback loop. The PLL uses this feedback to adjust the frequency of the VCO, and as a result, the output signal of the PLL is locked in phase with the input signal. PLLs are widely used in electronic devices such as radios, television receivers, and computers. They are also used in industrial applications such as motor speed control and data synchronization.
Differences between DLL and PLL
DLL and PLL are types of integrated circuits that are used for different purposes. DLL is an abbreviation for delay-locked loop and is used to delay a signal. PLL is an abbreviation for phase-locked loop and is used to generate a signal with a specific phase relationship to another signal.
- DLLs are used in applications where it is important to have a precise delay, such as in digital storage systems. PLLs are used in applications where it is important to have a precise phase relationship, such as in radiofrequency systems.
- DLLs typically have a lower maximum operating frequency than PLLs. This is because the DLL must maintain a constant delay between input and output, while the PLL must only maintain a constant phase difference.
- DLLs are also more sensitive to noise than PLLs. This is because the DLL must maintain its delay over a wide range of frequencies, while the PLL only needs to maintain its phase relationship over a limited range of frequencies. As a result, DLLs are typically used in applications where noise levels are low, while PLLs are typically used in applications where noise levels are high.
Conclusion
While both types of integrated circuits have their pros and cons, DLLs are generally better for high-frequency applications while PLLs are more suited for low-frequency tasks.
