Dynamic 1-of-2.sup.N logic encoding

Abstract

A system of encoding a plurality of logic paths. A number of logic paths are subdivided into groups of N, N being greater than one. Each group of N logic paths is encoded such that an assertion of a given combination of the N logic paths results in a predetermined one out of 2.sup.N signal lines being asserted. Simultaneous assertion of more than one of the 2.sup.N signal lines is defined as an invalid state. A simultaneous non-assertion of all of the 2.sup.N signal lines enables precharging of the signal lines for dynamic operation. 1-of-2.sup.N encoding enables transmission of N variables by firing one out of N wires (rather than every wire, as in static logic, or one out of two wires, as in mousetrap logic). Signal degradation due to noise and coupling is reduced. In a multiplexer, 1-of-2.sup.N encoding reduces the load on the multiplexer's shift lines. Several 1-of-2.sup.N encoded multiplexers may be interconnected to form a self-timed dynamic shift register comprising one or more stages of tiered multiplexers. 1-of-2.sup.N encoding enables closer wire routings within such a shift register. Furthermore, 1-of-2.sup.N encoding can reduce the number of multiplexers required to implement a shift function.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.