DDR5 DQS Interval Timer Circuit for Faster Timing Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing DDR5 DRAM technology faces challenges in accurately measuring the difference between the propagation times of data and data strobe signals within the specified period, necessitating improvements in the DQS interval timer operation to ensure timely and efficient data synchronization.
Innovation Solution
A DQS interval timer system is implemented, comprising an enable control circuit, synchronizer, clock gate circuit, interval counter, and DQS oscillator, which synchronizes and counts internal clock signals to adjust the timing differences between data and data strobe signals, allowing for precise synchronization and efficient data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the DQS interval timer uses a conventional measurement approach, then the propagation time difference can be measured, but the measurement cannot be completed within the specified period
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the interval counter with the specification-defined period value before measurement begins. The timer is pre-synchronized with the DQS signal edge, and the measurement window is pre-established, allowing the system to quickly capture the propagation time difference without setup delays during actual measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical timing measurement systems with a digital interval timer comprising synchronized counters and digital logic circuits. This substitution enables precise measurement of propagation time differences by using digital clock cycles and counter values, achieving both measurement accuracy and fast completion within the specified period
2Reliability
If the DQS interval timer operates with multiple operational cycles, then comprehensive measurement can be achieved, but the operational efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by designing the interval timer to continuously track and measure DQS signal edges without requiring repeated operational cycles. The counter operates continuously, incrementing on each DQS edge, which allows the system to maintain measurement readiness and provide immediate results, eliminating idle cycles between measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The interval timer performs self-service by automatically resetting and re-synchronizing with the DQS signal edges without external intervention. The circuit autonomously captures propagation time differences, manages its own counting sequence, and provides continuous measurement results, reducing the need for multiple controlled operational cycles
Data Source
AI summary
An example apparatus includes a first circuit configured to activate a first control signal responsive to a second control signal and deactivate the first control signal responsive to a third control signal, a second circuit coupled to the first circuit and configured to output a clock signal when predetermined clock cycles elapsed after the first control signal is activated, and a third circuit coupled to the second circuit and configured to count the clock signal. The third circuit is configured to activate the third control signal when a count value reaches a first value and activate a fourth control signal when a count value reaches a second value greater than the first value. The difference between the second value and the first value is the predetermined clock cycles or less.