Hierarchical Memory Device Architecture for Power and Latency Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microprocessor systems face performance bottlenecks due to power dissipation at the input/output interface during data transmission, necessitating simultaneous power and timing optimization to address bus latency, especially in communication with system memory and mass-storage devices.
Innovation Solution
A hierarchical memory device architecture with multiple interfaces, including RAM, NAND, Network, Storage, and Peripheral Interfaces, that supports high-speed communication, error correction, and adaptive power management, enabling efficient data transactions and optimized bus operations through advanced signaling methods and error correction schemes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If data is transmitted between CPU and system memory, then data transaction is enabled, but power dissipation increases at the input/output interface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the memory system into multiple hierarchical levels (L1, L2, L3 caches and main memory), allowing data transactions to be completed at the closest possible level to the processor core. This segmentation reduces the frequency and volume of high-power transactions over long-distance system buses, thereby reducing overall power dissipation while maintaining data transaction capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary cache memory structures between the processor and main memory. These intermediaries buffer and manage data transactions, allowing the processor to access frequently used data from low-latency cache memory rather than requiring high-power transactions with main memory, thus reducing power dissipation at the I/O interface.
2Loss of time
If bus latency is reduced, then timing performance is improved, but power dissipation increases due to increased transaction frequency
Solution Approach 1:
The hierarchical memory structure segments the memory access path into multiple levels with progressively lower speeds but higher capacity. By placing frequently accessed data in faster cache memory levels, the system achieves low bus latency for critical operations without requiring all memory transactions to use the high-speed (and high-power) system bus, thus balancing timing performance with power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by providing different memory access characteristics for different data types and access patterns. Frequently accessed data receives high-speed access through cache memory, while less frequently accessed data uses slower main memory access paths. This localized optimization reduces overall bus latency for critical operations while minimizing the power impact of slower access paths.
3Adaptability or versatility
If interface complexity is increased to support multiple memory types, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal interface circuitry that can handle multiple memory types (SRAM, SDRAM, DDR SDRAM, RDRAM) through a single unified interface design. The interface uses standardized control signals and timing mechanisms that work across different memory technologies, providing adaptability without requiring separate dedicated interfaces for each memory type, thus controlling device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface circuitry dynamically adapts to different memory types through configurable timing parameters and control signal sequences. The system can adjust its operation mode based on the detected memory type, enabling a single interface design to work with multiple memory technologies without requiring hardwired complexity for each specific memory type.
Data Source
AI summary
In various embodiments, a hierarchical memory device having multiple interfaces with different memory formats and may include a Phase Change Memory (PCM) device. An input port and an output port connect the hierarchical memory device in a daisy-chain hierarchy and/or a hierarchical tree structure with other memories. Standard non-hierarchical memory devices can also attach to the output port of the hierarchical memory device. Other embodiments are discussed.