Dynamically-tunable memory controller

Abstract

A memory controller circuit arrangement and method utilize a tuning circuit that dynamically controls the timing of memory control operations, rather than simply relying on fixed timing parameters that are either hardwired or initialized upon startup of a memory controller. Dynamic control over the timing of memory control operations typically incorporates memory test control logic that verifies whether or not a memory storage device will reliably operate using the dynamically-selected values of given timing parameters. Then, based upon the results of such testing, such dynamically-selected values are selectively updated and retested until optimum values are found. The dynamically-selected values may be used to set one or more programmable registers, each of which may in turn be used to control the operation of a programmable delay counter that enables a state transition in a state machine logic circuit to initiate performance of a memory control operation by the logic circuit. Dynamic tuning may also utilize a unique binary search engine circuit arrangement that updates one of two registers with an average of the current values stored in such registers based upon the result of a test performed using that average value. By selectively updating such registers, a fast convergence to an optimum value occurs with minimal circuitry.

Description

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 166,004, filed Oct. 2, 1998 by Gary Paul McClannahan, and entitled "MEMORY CONTROLLER WITH PROGRAMMABLE DELAY COUNTER FOR TUNING PERFORMANCE BASED ON TIMING PARAMETER OF CONTROLLED MEMORY STORAGE DEVICE," which application is incorporated by reference herein.[0002] The invention is generally related to integrated circuit device architecture and design, and in particular to the architecture and design of a memory controller for controlling data transfer with a memory storage device.[0003] Computers and other data processing systems rely extensively on various memories to store information used by such systems in performing computer tasks. A memory may be used, for example, to store a portion of a computer program that is executed by a computer, as well as the data that is operated upon by the computer.[0004] Memories may also be found in many of the components of a computer. For example, a microp...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

While a two-dimensional array may be used to represent sets of parameter values, an array may take up a rather large area on an integrated circuit device, particularly due to redundant data in the array.

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