Buffered DRAM With Unidirectional Paths for Long Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Emerging memory board/module form factors face challenges with densely packed signals that need to propagate long distances, requiring efficient signal transmission and reception across different directions without interference.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic random access memory (DRAM) device configured to support both long and narrow module form factors, with separate unidirectional read and write data interfaces, and the ability to retransmit or not retransmit signals based on its physical location on the module, using control signals to manage signal flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If signals are densely packed to support emerging memory board/module form factors, then space utilization is improved, but signal interference increases and transmission quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The data interface is segmented into separate unidirectional read and write data interfaces, allowing independent signal transmission paths that reduce interference between signals traveling in different directions
Solution Approach 2:
A buffer is introduced as an intermediary component between the memory array and the data interface, which receives signals from the memory array and selectively retransmits them through the unidirectional interfaces, thereby isolating and managing signal interference
2Length of moving object
If signals need to propagate long distances in long and narrow module form factors, then connectivity is improved, but signal degradation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer acts as an intermediary that receives signals from the memory array and selectively retransmits them through the unidirectional interfaces, thereby isolating and managing signal interference
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer controls signal retransmission based on configuration parameters, enabling dynamic adjustment of signal transmission characteristics to maintain quality over long distances
3Productivity
If separate unidirectional read and write data interfaces are implemented, then signal transmission efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The data interface is segmented into separate unidirectional read and write data interfaces, allowing independent signal transmission paths that reduce interference between signals traveling in different directions
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer is designed to handle multiple functions including signal reception from the memory array, signal retransmission through unidirectional interfaces, and configuration-based control, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the separate interfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A DRAM device may be configured to retransmit or not retransmit zero or more of command/address signals, write data signals, read data signals, and/or data strobe signals. The DRAM device may have separate, unidirectional read data signal and write data signal interfaces. Combined activate and read or write commands may be implemented. The configuration of the DRAM to retransmit or not retransmit signals may be determined by the DRAM device's physical location on a module via hardwired configuration pins. The various configurations allows a DRAM device to be used on both a long and narrow form factor module and a DIMM module.