A multi-bit write pointer that is associated with a first clock can be converted to a single-bit write pointer. A multi-bit read pointer that is associated with a second clock can be converted to a single-bit read pointer. The first clock and the second clock are not synchronized. One or more guard bits can be associated with the single-bit write pointer and/or the single-bit read pointer. The single-bit write pointer and the single-bit read pointer can be compared. According to an embodiment, an error can be detected in response to comparing the single-bit write pointer and the single-bit read pointer.