Block Diagram of 8284

Explain the generation of Clock, Ready and Reset Signals using 8284 Clock Generator

with No Comment Microprocessor & Interface

The 8284 Clock Generator is an integrated circuit (IC) designed to generate clock, ready, and reset signals for microprocessor systems. It plays a crucial role in managing the timing and synchronization aspects of a microprocessor-based system. Here’s an explanation of how the 8284 generates these signals:

Block Diagram of 8284

Clock Signal (CLK)

  • The 8284 generates the clock signal (CLK) for the microprocessor. The CLK signal is essential for synchronizing the operations of the microprocessor and other components in the system.
  • The clock frequency is determined by an external crystal oscillator(repetitive) or an RC(resistors and capacitors) network connected to the 8284. The oscillator(repetitive) or RC(resistors and capacitors) network provides the basic frequency reference for the clock generation.

Real-Life Example (For Better Understanding)

In a dance performance, the dancers need to move in sync with the music’s beat. The 8284, in this analogy, is like the music, providing a steady beat (CLK) for the dancers (microprocessor and other components) to coordinate their movements.

Ready Signal (RDY)

  • The Ready signal (RDY) is generated by the 8284 to indicate whether the microprocessor is ready to accept a new instruction or data. RDY is crucial for controlling the flow of data and instructions between the microprocessor and external devices.
  • The 8284 monitors the microprocessor’s internal status and generates the RDY signal accordingly. If the microprocessor is not ready to accept new data or instructions, the RDY signal is asserted (high). When the microprocessor is ready, the RDY signal is de-asserted (low).

Real-Life Example (For Better Understanding)

Imagine a busy intersection. When the traffic light is green (RDY low), vehicles (data and instructions) can move through the intersection smoothly. When the light turns red (RDY high), the vehicles pause, allowing the microprocessor to catch up before processing more information.

Reset Signal (RESET)

  • The Reset signal (RESET) is used to initialize the microprocessor and other components in the system. When the system is powered on or when a reset condition is triggered, the RESET signal is asserted to ensure a controlled and predictable startup state.
  • The 8284 generates the RESET signal, and it typically remains active for a short duration after power-up or when the microprocessor is being reset. The duration of the reset pulse may be internally controlled or externally configured.

Real-Life Example (For Better Understanding)

Consider a board game where players occasionally need to reset the pieces to their starting positions. The 8284, acting as the game master, initiates a reset (RESET signal) to bring all components back to their initial state, ready for a new round of play.

In summary, the 8284 Clock Generator is responsible for generating the clock signal, indicating the readiness of the microprocessor through the Ready signal (RDY), and initiating a controlled reset through the Reset signal (RESET). These signals are crucial for maintaining the proper operation and synchronization of a microprocessor-based system.