Memory Circuit Output Buffer Calibration via Data Interface Bypass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current memory systems face challenges in efficiently calibrating and synchronizing data interfaces, particularly in high-speed applications like GDDR5 memory technology, where precise timing and synchronization are crucial for optimal data transmission and storage.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a memory circuit with an output buffer and a controller circuit that allows data to be bypassed through the data interface, enabling flexible calibration and synchronization by using a synchronization circuit to adjust clock signals based on transmit and receive data patterns, thereby optimizing interface parameters without altering the data stored in the memory core.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If data is transmitted through the data interface for calibration, then interface parameters can be calibrated, but data transmission time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data path into two separate paths: a calibration path through the data interface and a normal data transmission path through the command/address interface. This allows calibration operations to occur independently without blocking normal data transmission, resolving the contradiction between calibration accuracy and transmission time.
Solution Approach 2:
The output buffer serves as an intermediary element that receives calibration data from the command/address interface and forwards it to the data interface. This mediator allows calibration data to be prepared and transmitted without interfering with normal data operations, enabling simultaneous calibration and data transmission.
2Measurement precision
If synchronization circuit is added to adjust clock signals, then synchronization precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization circuit is designed to perform multiple functions: it synchronizes the data interface with the clock signal, generates transmit data patterns for calibration, and receives receive data patterns for comparison. By consolidating these functions into a single circuit, the patent achieves high synchronization precision without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization circuit uses internally generated transmit data patterns and compares them with received data patterns to automatically adjust and optimize synchronization parameters. This self-calibrating mechanism eliminates the need for external intervention or complex control logic, achieving high precision while maintaining relatively simple circuit design.
3Productivity
If data bypasses through command/address interface, then calibration speed is improved, but interface reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calibration of the data interface using the command/address interface before normal data transmission begins. By completing all necessary calibration and synchronization adjustments in advance, the patent ensures that subsequent data transmissions through the data interface occur at full speed with guaranteed reliability, resolving the contradiction between calibration speed and transmission reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of a circuit comprises an output buffer, a data interface which is at least in a position to transmit data, the data interface being coupled to an output of the output buffer, a command/address interface coupled to an input of the output buffer, a memory core coupled to the input of the output buffer, and a controller circuit configured to cause data stored within the output buffer to be output to the data interface, further configured to cause data stored within the memory core to be output to the input of the output buffer, so that the data is stored within the output buffer, and further configured to cause provision of data received at the command/address interface to the input of the output buffer, so that the data is stored within the output buffer.