Semiconductor Memory Configuration Data Storage Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing semiconductor memory devices face issues in storing configuration data within the main memory array due to the risk of writing it into repaired areas, which may lead to incorrect reading, as the necessary repair information is not available yet.
Innovation Solution
Storing configuration data in an area of the main memory array known to be free of bad bits, along with a unique signature code that verifies the data's validity, and organizing the configuration page into equal-sized areas with known starting addresses, ensuring data integrity and availability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If configuration data is stored in the main memory array, then the need for separate configuration storage is eliminated, but there is a risk that the data could be written into repaired areas and read incorrectly
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration page is divided into multiple configuration areas, each with a known starting address. The system segments the configuration storage into distinct regions and uses a signature code to identify which area contains valid configuration data, preventing reading from repaired areas.
Solution Approach 2:
A signature code is introduced as an intermediary element to verify the validity of configuration data. The signature code acts as a pointer and verification mechanism, ensuring that the read operation accesses valid configuration data and not data from repaired areas.
2Reliability
If configuration data is stored in fuses or external registers, then data integrity is maintained, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing yields decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration data storage is merged with the main memory array by using a configuration page within the array. This combines the configuration storage function with the existing memory structure, eliminating separate configuration storage components and reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The main memory array is given multiple functions: it serves both as the primary data storage and as the configuration data storage through the configuration page. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate configuration storage devices.
3Measurement precision
If the configuration page is divided into multiple areas with signature codes, then data validity verification is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration page is segmented into multiple configuration areas, each with a known starting address and a signature code. This segmentation allows the system to verify data validity by checking the signature code in each area without significantly increasing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Redundantly repaired semiconductor memory and method in which the configuration data for the memory is stored in an area of the main memory array which is known to be free of bad bits, along with a signature code which serves as a pointer and verifies the validity of the configuration data. In one disclosed embodiment, the data is stored in a configuration memory which is divided into a plurality of areas of equal size and known starting addresses. The number of areas is greater than the number of permitted repairs, and the areas which do not contain defects are available for storing configuration data including device settings, repair information, and the like.