Memory Chip Latency Alignment Under PVT Variation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The synchronization of signal paths in semiconductor memory devices, particularly under varying Process, Voltage, Temperature (PVT) conditions, leads to difficulties in maintaining aligned physical latencies, increasing the risk of signal transmission errors.
Innovation Solution
A latency adjustment method that measures the first latency of a first signal path, decodes it to obtain latency cycles, and controls the second latency of a second signal path to be an integer multiple of the clock cycle, using a latency adjustment apparatus with components for measurement, decoding, and self-align control to synchronize different paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If an ODT path is added to achieve faster data transmission speed, then data transmission performance is improved, but signal path synchronization becomes difficult and transmission error risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the actual latency of the ODT signal path is measured and compared against the reference CLK signal path latency. Based on this comparison, the ODT latency is dynamically adjusted to achieve synchronization. This closed-loop feedback approach ensures that the ODT path maintains proper timing alignment with the clock signal, preventing transmission errors while enabling faster data rates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adjusts the latency parameter of the ODT signal path by modifying the timing characteristics of the ODT signal. This is achieved by controlling the latency of the ODT signal relative to the clock signal, ensuring that the ODT resistance switching occurs at the correct timing. By changing the latency parameter, the system achieves synchronization between different signal paths without compromising transmission speed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If signal path latency is not synchronized under varying PVT conditions, then adaptability to different operating conditions is improved, but signal transmission accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a feedback mechanism that continuously monitors and adjusts signal path latencies under varying PVT conditions. By measuring the actual latency of different signal paths and comparing it against reference values, the system dynamically compensates for PVT-induced variations. This ensures that timing precision is maintained across different operating conditions without requiring separate calibration for each condition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary latency measurement and adjustment during the calibration phase before normal operation. By pre-characterizing the latency of different signal paths under various PVT conditions and storing compensation values, the system can quickly apply the appropriate latency adjustment when operating conditions change, maintaining timing precision without real-time complex calculations.
Data Source
AI summary
A latency adjustment method, a memory chip architecture, and a semiconductor memory are provided. The method includes: measuring a first latency of a first signal path; performing decoding based on the first latency to obtain a number of latency cycles, where the number of latency cycles represents a ratio of the first latency to a clock cycle; and controlling a second latency of a second signal path to be an integer multiple of the clock cycle based on the number of latency cycles.