Configurable-Port Memory Cells for Efficient Resource Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Programmable integrated circuits waste hardware resources when dual-port memory elements are configured in single-port mode, as certain hardware such as sense amplifiers and word line drivers are not utilized efficiently.
Innovation Solution
Configurable-port memory cells with first and second latching circuits based on cross-coupled inverters, controlled by a mode signal to switch between single-port and dual-port operations, allowing for efficient use of hardware resources by enabling or disabling transistors to adapt the number of ports based on operational needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dual-port memory elements are used to provide flexibility for both single-port and dual-port operations, then adaptability is improved, but hardware resources are wasted when operating in single-port mode
Solution Approach 1:
The memory element dynamically reconfigures its port configuration based on operational mode. In dual-port mode, both write drivers and sense amplifiers are active; in single-port mode, only one set is activated while the other is disabled, allowing the same hardware to adapt to different operational requirements without waste
Solution Approach 2:
The memory element is designed with universal functionality to operate in both single-port and dual-port modes using the same physical hardware. The first and second write drivers, along with first and second sense amplifiers, can serve different purposes depending on the mode, maximizing hardware utility across different operational scenarios
2Adaptability or versatility
If dual-port memory elements are used to support both single-port and dual-port operations, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The memory element is segmented into distinct functional blocks: first latching circuit, second latching circuit, first write driver, second write driver, first sense amplifier, and second sense amplifier. This segmentation allows independent control and activation of different components based on operational mode, managing complexity through modular organization
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate write drivers and sense amplifiers are provided for dual-port operation, then adaptability is improved, but hardware resource waste occurs in single-port mode
Solution Approach 1:
The write drivers and sense amplifiers dynamically switch between active and inactive states based on operational mode. Control logic enables or disables specific drivers and amplifiers to match the current port configuration, ensuring that hardware resources are utilized efficiently without being wasted on inactive components
Data Source
AI summary
Integrated circuits may include configurable-port memory cells. The configurable-port memory cells may be operable in single-port mode and multiport mode. Each configurable-port memory cell may be coupled to first and second pairs of data lines. The configurable-port memory cell may include a first latching circuit having a first data storage node and a second latching circuit having a second data storage node. The first latching circuit may be coupled to the first pair of data lines through a first set of access transistors, whereas the second latching circuit may be coupled to the second pair of data lines through a second set of access transistors. An additional transistor may be coupled between the first and second data storage nodes. The configurable-port memory cell is configured in the single-port mode if the additional transistor is turned off and is configured in the dual-port mode if the additional transistor is turned on.