CeRAM Latching Circuits for Non-Volatile Data Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data storage circuits, such as latches and flip-flops, are volatile and require redundant circuitry and additional power supplies to retain data when power is disconnected, leading to increased space and power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A latching circuitry utilizing a Correlated Electron Switch (CES) element, which is non-volatile and can store data without external power, by transitioning between conductive and insulative states based on applied voltage and current, allowing for data retention even when power is off.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional volatile latches and flip-flops are used for data storage, then data can be stored temporarily during power operation, but additional redundant circuitry and separate power supplies are required to retain data when power is switched off, increasing device complexity and power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the data storage function and data retention function into a single latching circuit by integrating a non-volatile memory element (such as MRAM, PCM, or ReRAM) with the volatile latch circuit. This integration eliminates the need for separate retention circuits and additional power supplies, as the non-volatile element inherently maintains data without external power while the volatile latch provides fast operation during power operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching circuit is designed to perform multiple functions: it operates as a standard volatile latch during power operation for fast data storage and manipulation, and automatically transitions to non-volatile data retention when power is removed. The non-volatile memory element serves dual purposes as both the storage medium and the retention mechanism, eliminating the need for specialized retention circuitry.
2Reliability
If redundant retention circuitry and separate power supplies are added to conventional latches, then data can be retained when power is switched off, but space in the integrated circuit is consumed and overall power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the data storage cell and retention functionality into a single integrated structure using non-volatile memory elements (MRAM, PCM, or ReRAM). This merger eliminates the need for separate retention circuits that would consume additional IC space, as the non-volatile element inherently provides data retention without requiring external retention circuitry or power supplies.
3Reliability
If redundant retention circuitry and separate power supplies are added to conventional latches, then data can be retained when power is switched off, but overall power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates non-volatile memory elements with the latch circuit to create a unified data storage and retention system. This integration eliminates the need for separate power supplies required by conventional retention circuits, as the non-volatile element maintains data without external power. The circuit consumes power only during active write and read operations, significantly reducing overall power consumption compared to conventional approaches that require continuous power for retention.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The CES element enables data storage without the need for redundant circuitry or additional power supplies, reducing space and power consumption while maintaining data integrity even when power is disconnected.
Implementation Method 1
A latching circuitry utilizing a Correlated Electron Switch (CES) element, which is non-volatile and can store data without external power, by transitioning between conductive and insulative states based on applied voltage and current
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a device comprises a latching circuitry, where the latching circuitry comprises at least one correlated electron random access memory (CeRAM) element. The latching circuitry further comprises a control circuit coupled to the at least one CeRAM element. The control circuit is configured to receive at least one control signal. Based on the at least one control signal, perform at least one of storing data into the latching circuitry and outputting data from the latching circuitry.