Protocols
Skid Buffer
A single-entry buffer that decouples pipeline stages, enabling ready signal registration for timing closure.
Detailed Explanation
In valid-ready pipelines, the ready signal often forms a critical path back to the source. Registering ready directly would cause data loss. The skid buffer captures data when the downstream isn't ready, breaking the ready path timing while maintaining correct protocol behavior.
The buffer stores one entry. When downstream asserts ready, data passes through. When downstream deasserts ready but upstream data arrives, the buffer captures it. The source sees ready deasserted (buffer full) until downstream accepts the buffered data.