Title: Method and structure for detecting recycling of polynomial counters

Abstract: The use of polynomial counters is desirable whenever large counts are required such as in long-interval timers, microprocessors and the like. Determining when such a counter recycles, however, presents a problem because of the large number of stages required and the fact that polynomial counters do not have an overflow, or carry, output. This problem is solved by method and structure in an arrangement comprising a polynomial counter having a prescribed number N of counting stages and 2.sup.N -1 count states and a source of pulses for incrementing the polynomial counter. During counting operations, an indication is stored when a prescribed one of the stages of the polynomial counter assumes a predetermined logic state. The indication is cleared after each group of N of the pulses. A count complete signal, indicating that the polynomial counter has recycled, is generated after the occurrence of a group of N pulses of the indication is not then stored.

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Other info:

Inventors: Moran, John C. (Glen Ellyn, IL, US)

Application Number: 953831
Filing Date: 1978-10-23
Publication_date: 1980-05-13
Assignee: Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated (Murray Hill, NJ)
Primary Class(es): 377/51 377/33, 377/44, 377/54
Other Classes:
US Patent Ref:

2951230	Aug, 1960	Cadden	307/221.
2970226	Jan, 1961	Skelton et al.	307/293.
3818354	Jun, 1974	Tomisawa et al.	328/48.
3849635	Nov, 1974	Freedman	235/92.
3911330	Oct, 1975	Fletcher et al.	307/221.
3959731	May, 1976	Pomerantz et al.	328/129.
3978413	Aug, 1976	Frohwerk	307/221.
3982192	Sep, 1976	Newton et al.	328/129.
4034156	Jul, 1977	Willmore	235/92.
4143327	Mar, 1979	Welsh	328/48.

Other Refs:
Primary Examiner: Boudreau, Leo H.
Assistant Examiner:
Attorney: Herndon; Jerry W.