GIO Termination Control Circuit for Speed-Dependent Power Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing semiconductor memory apparatuses face increased power consumption due to the need for a GIO termination circuit in each global input/output line, which is activated regardless of the operation speed, leading to unnecessary current consumption.
Innovation Solution
A termination control circuit that determines the operation speed based on the external clock signal frequency and CAS latency information, activating the GIO termination circuit only when a certain combination is satisfied, thereby reducing power consumption by turning off the circuit when not needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the GIO termination circuit is activated in each global input/output line, then the transition time of the GIO line is shortened and coupling noise is reduced, but the power consumption increases due to unnecessary current consumption when not operating at high speed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the GIO termination circuit's operation state changeable based on operating conditions. The control circuit dynamically adjusts the termination circuit between activated and deactivated states according to the external clock frequency and CAS latency, ensuring the circuit only consumes power when actually needed for high-speed operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the GIO termination circuit based on external conditions. By monitoring external clock frequency and CAS latency parameters, the system adjusts the termination circuit's activation state, transitioning from a fixed always-on state to a conditionally activated state that optimizes power consumption while maintaining performance when needed.
2Loss of time
If the GIO termination circuit is always activated, then the data access time is reduced, but the current consumption increases unnecessarily during low-speed operations
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit dynamically determines the activation state of the GIO termination circuit based on real-time operating parameters (external clock frequency and CAS latency). This dynamic control ensures the circuit is activated only when the combination of frequency and latency indicates high-speed operation requirements, eliminating unnecessary current consumption during low-speed operations while maintaining fast access times when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the external clock frequency and CAS latency parameters to control the GIO termination circuit's activation. The control circuit continuously monitors these parameters and adjusts the termination circuit state accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes both data access time and power consumption based on actual operating conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A termination control circuit for a global input/output line includes a speed determination unit configured to output a termination enable signal which is activated in response to a frequency of an external clock signal and CAS latency information; and a pulse generation unit configured to output a driving signal for driving a termination circuit for the global input/output line in response to a termination control signal and the termination enable signal.