GDDR Memory Expansion via CMT Connector for Replaceable Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current GDDR memory implementations do not allow for memory replacement or upgrade in graphics and GPU accelerator applications, necessitating the replacement of the entire card in case of memory failure or to increase memory capacity, which is costly.
Innovation Solution
The use of CMT connectors with a dedicated pinout for GDDR-based memory enables the addition or replacement of memory modules, supporting a split channel concept with multiple devices and allowing for memory expansion without replacing the entire card.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GDDR memory is soldered down to a PCB on a graphics or accelerator card, then the memory is fixed and stable, but the memory cannot be replaced or upgraded in case of failure or to increase capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The memory system is segmented into a GPU card portion and a separate memory module portion. The memory is mounted on a memory module with its own PCB rather than being permanently soldered to the GPU card, allowing the memory module to be independently replaced or upgraded while keeping the GPU card intact.
Solution Approach 2:
A CMT connector serves as an intermediary component between the GPU card and the memory module. This connector provides both mechanical attachment and electrical connectivity, enabling the memory module to be securely connected while maintaining the capability for replacement and upgrade without affecting the GPU card.
2Quantity of substance
If the entire card including GPU is replaced to upgrade memory, then memory capacity increases, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the memory into a separate replaceable module, users can upgrade only the memory component rather than replacing the entire GPU card. This allows memory capacity to be increased while avoiding the high cost of replacing the complete card assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory component is extracted from the integrated GPU card structure and placed on a separate module that can be independently upgraded. This extraction allows memory capacity expansion without the need to replace expensive GPU components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If GDDR memory is used on an SO-DIMM, then memory can be replaced, but bandwidth and reliability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The CMT connector acts as a specialized intermediary that provides both mechanical support and high-speed electrical connectivity between the GPU card and memory module. This connector design enables memory replacement while maintaining the bandwidth and reliability requirements for GDDR memory applications.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for GDDR (Graphics Double Date Rate) memory expander using compression mount technology (CMT) connectors. A CMT connector with a dedicated pinout for GDDR-based memory is provided that enables end users and manufacturers to change the amount of GDDR memory provided with a GPU card, accelerator card, or apparatus having other form factors. Memory could also be replaced in the event of a failure. In addition, embodiments are disclosed that support a split channel concept where there could be multiple devices (e.g., GDDR modules) with dedicated signals routed to each module.