Ghost Command Suppression in Half-Frequency Memory Devices

The patent applies preliminary action by generating mask signals in advance during specific pipeline cycles before ghost commands can be incorrectly decoded. The mask circuitry prepares masking patterns that block potential ghost commands before they reach the decoder, preventing erroneous decoding rather than correcting it later. This is evident in the timing diagrams showing mask signals being generated in predetermined cycles based on detected command patterns.

The patent introduces mask signals as an intermediary element between the command input and the decoder. These mask signals act as a mediator that selectively blocks ghost commands from being decoded while allowing valid commands to pass through unchanged. The mask circuitry generates these intermediary signals that interface between the command address bits and the decoding logic, preventing harmful ghost commands without affecting legitimate operations.

The patent implements periodic action by generating mask signals at specific, predetermined intervals in the pipeline cycles rather than continuously analyzing all command data. The mask circuitry operates periodically based on the half-frequency mode timing, generating mask signals only in specific cycles where ghost commands are likely to occur. This periodic operation reduces processing overhead while maintaining effective ghost command suppression at critical moments.

The patent applies preliminary action by preparing and generating mask signals in advance during specific pipeline cycles before the actual command decoding occurs. Historical command data is analyzed proactively to predict potential ghost commands, and mask signals are generated beforehand to block them. This advance preparation prevents ghost commands from reaching the decoder without requiring real-time analysis that would consume excessive processing time.

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the pipeline operation into specific cycles with distinct functions. The mask circuitry operates in predetermined pipeline cycles, generating mask signals only during specific segments of the processing sequence. This segmentation allows the system to focus computational resources on critical cycles where ghost command differentiation is needed, rather than continuously processing all cycles, thereby improving differentiation accuracy while managing complexity through temporal division.

The patent implements periodic action by activating mask signal generation only in specific, repeating pipeline cycles rather than continuously. The mask circuitry follows a periodic pattern synchronized with the half-frequency mode timing, generating mask signals at regular intervals when ghost commands are most likely to occur. This periodic operation improves command differentiation at critical moments while reducing overall device complexity by avoiding continuous mask generation logic.