Valid data strobe detection technique

A method of outputting a valid data strobe contained within a strobe signal, the method comprising:

• determining whether samples of the strobe signal are at a first or second logic level and providing an output in response thereto by periodically sampling the strobe signal and comparing the samples with a predetermined reference signal, wherein periodically sampling the strobe signal comprises setting a sampling frequency of the strobe signal by generating a sampling clock signal, wherein the sampling frequency of the strobe signal determines a measurement accuracy of the strobe signal, and wherein sampling of the strobe signal takes place at a time that corresponds to either a rising edge or a falling edge of the sampling clock signal;
• determining the number of consecutive strobe signal samples for which the samples are at the second logic state;
• detecting a valid data strobe upon reaching a predetermined number of consecutive strobe signal samples at the second logic state, wherein the consecutive strobe signal samples are taken at a time that corresponds to either a rising edge or a falling edge of the sampling clock signal;
• and
• outputting a valid data strobe upon the detection thereof.

An apparatus for detecting a valid data strobe contained within a strobe signal, the apparatus comprising:

• a voltage detector to detect whether a measured voltage level of the strobe signal is above or below a preselected threshold level and to provide an output in response thereto;
• a sample and hold unit coupled to the voltage detector to sample and hold the strobe signal detected by the voltage detector;
• a sampling clock unit coupled to the sample and hold unit to generate a sampling clock signal, wherein the sampling clock signal sets a sampling frequency of the strobe signal for the sample and hold unit, wherein the sampling frequency determines a measurement accuracy of the strobe signal, and wherein the strobe signal is sampled by the sample and hold unit at a time that corresponds to either a rising edge or a falling edge of the sampling clock signal;
• a valid strobe detector coupled to the sample and hold unit to detect a valid strobe signal upon receiving a predetermined number of consecutive valid strobe signal samples from the sample and hold unit, wherein the strobe signal samples are taken at a time that corresponds to either a rising edge or a falling edge of the sampling clock signal;
• and
• a time delay unit coupled to the valid strobe detector to determine strobing time window for the strobe signal;
• wherein the output of the sample and hold unit comprises a plurality of outputs, and wherein the valid strobe detector comprises a NAND gate having inputs respectively connected to the plurality of outputs of the sample and hold unit.