Memory Controller Dual Clock Read Write Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory systems face limitations in maximizing data transfer frequency between the memory controller and memory chips, particularly due to the constraints imposed by write operations on the frequency used in both write and read operations.
Innovation Solution
The memory system employs a dual clock mechanism, where a higher frequency read clock is used during read operations compared to the write clock used in write operations, allowing for independent optimization of data transfer frequencies in both directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single clock frequency is used for both write and read operations, then the system maintains simplicity in clock management, but the data transfer frequency cannot be optimized for read operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the clock management into separate segments: a first clock for write operations and a second clock for read operations. This segmentation allows each clock to be independently optimized for its specific operation type, resolving the contradiction between maintaining simplicity and enabling frequency optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic clock frequency adjustment by selecting different clock frequencies based on the operation type. The memory controller dynamically switches between using the first clock (lower frequency) for writes and the second clock (higher frequency) for reads, allowing the system to adapt to different performance requirements without permanent complexity.
2Speed
If a higher frequency clock is used for read operations, then read performance is improved, but the system requires separate clock mechanisms increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The memory controller is designed with multi-functionality to handle both write and read operations using different clock frequencies. The controller universally manages data transfer in both directions while adapting the clock frequency according to the operation type, thereby achieving high read speed without requiring separate dedicated hardware for each operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the clock frequency parameter dynamically based on the operation type. For read operations, the system switches to a higher frequency second clock, while for write operations it uses a lower frequency first clock. This parameter change allows speed optimization without permanent structural complexity.
3Productivity
If the write clock frequency limits the read operation frequency, then clock management remains simple, but overall system performance is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the clock frequency management so that write operations use one frequency while read operations use another. This segmentation removes the constraint where write clock frequency limited read performance, allowing each operation type to utilize the optimal frequency without increasing fundamental system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts clock frequency based on operation requirements rather than being constrained by a single fixed frequency. This dynamic approach enables the memory controller to optimize performance for each operation type independently, improving overall productivity while maintaining manageable complexity through software/firmware control.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory system includes a memory chip and a memory controller that controls the memory chip. In a write operation, the memory controller transfers a first timing signal synchronized with a first clock and first data synchronized with the first timing signal to the memory chip. In a read operation, the memory controller transfers a second timing signal synchronized with at least a second clock to the memory chip. The second clock has a frequency different from a frequency of the first clock. In the read operation, the memory chip generates a third timing signal synchronized with the second clock based on the second timing signal, and transfers the third timing signal and second data synchronized with the third timing signal to the memory controller.