Latency Synchronization in Memory Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Memory devices face latency issues due to the need for synchronization between multiple clock sources, which increases system size and introduces delays, especially when transitioning between power states like power-up, sleep, or standby.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a single clock source for both data and command signals, with a synchronizer that adjusts the clock frequency and synchronizes command signals with the data clock, and powers down when memory banks are closed to conserve power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple clock sources are used for data and command signals, then frequency flexibility is improved, but system size increases and latency is introduced due to synchronization requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple clock sources into a single clock source that generates both data clock signals and command clock signals. This merging eliminates the need for separate clock circuits and synchronization mechanisms, thereby reducing system size while maintaining frequency flexibility through configurable clock division ratios.
Solution Approach 2:
The single clock source is designed to serve multiple functions by generating different clock frequencies for data and command operations. The clock source includes configurable division circuits that can adjust the clock frequency dynamically, allowing one component to replace multiple specialized clock generators while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple clock sources are used for data and command signals, then frequency flexibility is improved, but latency increases due to synchronization requirements
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple clock sources into a single synchronized clock source, the patent eliminates the latency introduced by clock synchronization between separate sources. The single clock source inherently provides synchronized timing for both data and command operations without requiring additional synchronization cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The clock source is configured in advance to generate the appropriate clock frequencies for data and command operations. The division ratios and frequency settings are predetermined and loaded into the clock source before operations begin, eliminating runtime synchronization delays and preparing the timing system proactively.
3Device complexity
If a single clock source is used for both data and command signals, then system size is reduced, but clock frequency adjustment flexibility may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single clock source incorporates dynamic frequency adjustment capabilities through configurable division circuits. The clock source can change its output frequency and division ratios in real-time based on operational requirements, allowing flexible adaptation between data and command clock frequencies without requiring multiple fixed-frequency clock sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the clock source to modify its operating parameters such as division ratios and output frequencies. These parameters can be programmatically adjusted to match different operational modes, maintaining frequency flexibility while using a single clock source, thereby resolving the contradiction between system size reduction and adaptability.
4Reliability
If synchronizer operates continuously to maintain synchronization, then synchronization accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases during idle states
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronizer operates periodically rather than continuously, activating only when synchronization is required (e.g., during mode transitions or clock frequency changes). During idle states where synchronization is already maintained, the synchronizer enters a low-power state, reducing power consumption while preserving synchronization accuracy when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronizer includes self-monitoring functionality that detects when synchronization is already accurate and automatically enters a low-power mode. The system serves itself by monitoring its own synchronization status and adjusting its operational state accordingly, maintaining reliability while minimizing unnecessary power consumption during idle periods.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices for latency synchronization are described. A memory device may receive a data clock signal having a first rate and may generate a second clock signal having a second rate based on the data clock signal. A sampler may sample a first command signal indicating a command, where the second clock signal includes a first delay. A synchronizer may receive a second command signal from the sampler and a third clock signal from the sampler, where the second command signal and the third clock signal include a second delay. The synchronizer may synchronize a first timing of the second clock signal with a second timing of the third clock signal based on receiving the second command signal and the third clock signal and may output a signal including the second command signal and a synchronized clock signal having the second rate based on the synchronization.