Dual-Path Latch Circuit for High-Speed Memory Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
As semiconductor operation speed increases, the layout margin of circuit configurations decreases, and current consumption rises, posing challenges for efficient data output in semiconductor memory apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
A latch circuit and transmission circuit design that includes a first detection unit for normal read operations and a second detection unit for state information read operations, allowing for output signal generation regardless of control clock signal transitions, along with a serializer for outputting serialized signals, which helps in maintaining layout margin and reducing current consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If operation speed increases, then productivity improves, but layout margin decreases and current consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch circuit is divided into two separate detection units: a first detection unit for normal read operations that responds to clock signal transitions, and a second detection unit for state information read operations that operates independently of clock transitions. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized for its specific function, reducing overall current consumption while maintaining high operation speed
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit dynamically switches between two operational modes based on the type of read operation being performed. During normal read operations, the first detection unit operates with clock signal transitions for high-speed data output. During state information read operations, the second detection unit operates without clock transitions to reduce current consumption, providing adaptive power management
2Productivity
If operation speed increases, then productivity improves, but layout margin decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the detection functionality into two specialized units, each unit can be minimized in size for its specific purpose. The first detection unit is optimized for clock-synchronized operations, while the second is optimized for asynchronous state information reading, allowing efficient use of layout space even at high operation speeds
Solution Approach 2:
The second detection unit extracts the state information reading function from the main clock-synchronized detection path. This separation removes the requirement for large layout margins that would be needed if a single unified detection unit had to handle both normal and state information reads at high speeds
Data Source
AI summary
The present technology may include a first detection unit configured to generate an output signal by detecting a level of an input terminal in response to a transition of a control clock signal during a normal read operation, and a second detection unit configured to generate the output signal by detecting the level of the input terminal regardless of the transition of the control clock signal during a state information read operation.