Command Decoder for Semiconductor Memory Snoop Read Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In semiconductor memory devices, existing technologies require one device to disable its data input buffer during read operations, which can interfere with the operation of another device sharing a common transmission line, leading to inefficiencies and potential data loss.
Innovation Solution
A command decoder circuit that generates a snoop read control signal and internal snoop read command, allowing one semiconductor memory device to perform a read operation without disabling its input buffer, even when another device is performing a snoop read operation, by using a transmission mode control signal to manage buffer states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a semiconductor memory device disables its data input buffer during read operations to prevent interference on common transmission lines, then data integrity is maintained, but operational efficiency and throughput deteriorate due to unnecessary buffer disabling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic buffer management where the data input buffer is enabled or disabled based on real-time detection of read operations from other devices. The snoop read control signal dynamically adjusts buffer state according to actual operational needs, transitioning from static buffer disabling to adaptive buffer control that maintains reliability while improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms through snoop read detection circuits that monitor transmission line activity and generate control signals accordingly. When a read operation is detected on a common transmission line, the feedback signal triggers buffer disabling only for that specific device, allowing other devices to maintain buffer enabled state and continue operations efficiently.
2Productivity
If individual transmission lines are used for each semiconductor memory device to eliminate buffer disabling requirements, then operational efficiency is maintained, but device complexity and transmission line requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the data input buffer universal by enabling it to serve multiple purposes: normal data reception when enabled, and snoop read operation participation when another device performs read. The buffer and associated circuits are designed to handle both standard data bus operations and snoop read detection, eliminating the need for separate individual transmission lines while maintaining operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces snoop read control signals as intermediaries that mediate between read operations and buffer control. These control signals act as mediators that coordinate buffer behavior across multiple devices sharing common transmission lines, enabling efficient operation without requiring complex individual transmission line configurations for each device.
3Reliability
If the data input buffer is disabled during read operations to prevent data loss, then data security is ensured, but time is lost due to buffer state changes and operational interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary snoop read detection that identifies read operations before they complete, allowing the system to prepare buffer control actions in advance. By detecting the read operation early and generating control signals proactively, the buffer can be managed more efficiently, reducing the time buffer state changes take and minimizing operational interruptions while maintaining data security.
Data Source
AI summary
A command decoder includes a snoop read control signal generation unit that generates a snoop read control signal from a internal chip select signal according to a level of a transmission mode control signal, and an internal snoop read command generation unit that generates an internal snoop read command by driving a first node in response to an internal command and the snoop read control signal.