A data recovery system for a serial digital data link includes a data sampler, compare logic, a phase controller, and a phase shifter. The data sampler samples input data three times in a bit time which time is determined by clock pulses generated by the phase shifter, and recovers digital data according to a predetermined decision criterion. The compare logic compares the output of the data sampler according to a predetermined method. Phase controller uses the output of the compare logic and generates phase control signals. The phase shifter uses the phase control signals and makes three different phase clocks from input clock. The input clock can be an external clock, or can be recovered from the external clock or input data stream.