Data Bus Encoding for Parallel Data Mask Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
In modern high-speed electronic systems, the need for data masking and error detection features like DBI and DM introduces additional pin requirements, leading to tradeoffs between performance, command complexity, and pin count, with existing methods either reducing data bandwidth or increasing complexity when transmitting data masking signals.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves an information transmitting apparatus with a data bit inversion module that modifies data words to include an inversion signal, allowing the transmission of data masking information through existing data channels by using invalid data word states, which are recognizable by the receiver based on predetermined bit patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If dedicated DM pins are provided, then maximum DM bandwidth is achieved, but pin count increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the DM signal transmission with the existing data bus by encoding DM information into invalid data word states. This allows the data bus to carry both data and DM signals simultaneously, eliminating the need for dedicated DM pins while maintaining full DM bandwidth capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The data bus is given multi-functionality by enabling it to transmit both normal data and DM signals. Through the use of invalid data word states, the same physical bus serves dual purposes, reducing pin count without sacrificing DM transmission capability.
2Quantity of substance
If DM is transmitted over normal data pins, then pin count is reduced, but data bandwidth decreases since data and DM cannot be transmitted in parallel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data bus transmission space into valid and invalid states. Normal data words use valid states for data transmission, while invalid states are reserved for DM signal encoding. This segmentation allows simultaneous data and DM transmission without interference, maintaining full data bandwidth.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to the data bus by utilizing the validity state (valid/invalid distinction) as an additional encoding layer. This allows DM information to be transmitted in parallel with data without requiring separate physical pins, effectively doubling the information capacity of the existing bus.
3Productivity
If DM signal is transmitted over address pins, then parallel transmission is enabled, but bandwidth is limited and new commands are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges DM signal transmission with the existing data bus operation, eliminating the need for separate address pin transmission and associated control commands. The DM signal is embedded within the data bus protocol itself, reducing command complexity while maintaining parallel transmission capability.
4Reliability
If DBI and DM features are added, then error detection and data masking capabilities are improved, but command complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by using the data bus itself to carry DM control information. The invalid data word states automatically indicate DM activation without requiring external control signals or complex command sequences, simplifying the overall system operation while maintaining error detection and data masking capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
An information transmitting apparatus is described. An interface includes a first input for a valid data word, a second input for an information to be transmitted, and an output, wherein the interface provides the data word or a data word recognizable as an invalid data word at the output, depending on the information. Accordingly, an information receiving apparatus comprises an interface comprising an input for a data word and an output for an information, wherein the interface derives the information depending on whether the data word is a valid data word or an invalid data word.