FPGA Memory Cell Configuration via Peripheral I/O Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for configuring internal memory cells of integrated circuits are limited in speed and flexibility, particularly in programmable logic devices like FPGAs, where high-speed data transfer and independent configuration of memory cells around the logic fabric are challenging.
Innovation Solution
The configuration of internal memory cells is achieved through a logic fabric using a ring of input/output blocks with shift registers, where a clock signal and data signal are generated and scanned around the periphery, enabling high-speed data transfer and independent configuration of memory cells via a dynamic reconfiguration port.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional configuration methods are used for internal memory cells, then device complexity is reduced, but configuration speed and flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the configuration function with the existing logic fabric by utilizing the same clock and data paths that circulate around the periphery of the logic fabric. Instead of creating separate dedicated configuration paths, the invention combines memory cell configuration with the existing high-speed data transfer infrastructure, thereby achieving high configuration speed without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The logic fabric's clock and data paths serve dual purposes: they function as both the primary data transfer medium for logic operations and as the configuration medium for memory cells. This multi-functionality allows the same infrastructure to support both high-speed data processing and high-speed memory configuration, eliminating the need for separate dedicated configuration infrastructure
2Productivity
If high-speed data transfer is implemented around the logic fabric periphery, then configuration speed improves, but data path complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The existing logic fabric data paths are made universal by enabling them to carry both logic operation data and memory configuration data. The same physical paths that enable high-speed logic processing are repurposed to deliver configuration data to memory cells, achieving high productivity without adding separate dedicated high-speed configuration paths
3Adaptability or versatility
If independent configuration of memory cells is enabled, then flexibility improves, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration capability is segmented at the individual memory cell level, allowing each memory cell to be independently configured through the circulating data path. This segmentation enables flexible independent control of arbitrary sections of memory cells while utilizing the existing simple circulating path structure, avoiding the need for complex centralized control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
Memory cells are designed to self-configure by capturing configuration data from the circulating data path at appropriate clock cycles. Each memory cell autonomously receives and processes its configuration data without requiring complex external control signals, thereby achieving high flexibility with minimal control complexity
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method and apparatus for configuring the internal memory cells of an integrated circuit through the logic fabric are disclosed. For example, an integrated circuit according to one embodiment includes a logic fabric and a plurality of input/output blocks coupled to the logic fabric, wherein the plurality of input/output blocks is positioned around the periphery of the logic fabric. The plurality of input/output blocks therefore forms a ring around the logic fabric, wherein a data path and a clock path are formed along the periphery of the logic fabric through the plurality of input/output blocks.