Memory Controller Phase Optimization for Signal Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
In data transmission and reception systems, especially when multiple memory controllers are involved, the strobe point between the DQS and DQ signals can fluctuate due to power supply noise and operation timing noise, leading to suboptimal data signal acquisition timing, especially in systems with multiple memory modules connected via transmission lines, causing impedance mismatch and signal reflection.
Innovation Solution
A data transmission and reception system that includes a central processing unit (CPU) and multiple memory controllers, which determine and optimize the phase combination of the DQS signal relative to the DQ signal using a reference voltage, adjusting delay taps for the DQS, DQ, and memory clock signals to ensure optimal data acquisition by identifying the combination of phases that provides the widest voltage range for successful data signal acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple memory controllers are connected to increase memory capacity, then memory system capability is improved, but noise interference increases causing strobe point fluctuation and data acquisition failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the strobe point timing parameter based on detected noise conditions. The memory controller modifies the phase relationship between DQS and DQ signals to compensate for noise-induced timing variations, thereby maintaining reliable data acquisition despite increased noise from multiple memory controllers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the memory controller monitors data acquisition success and noise conditions, then adjusts strobe point timing accordingly. This closed-loop control enables the system to adapt to noise variations caused by multiple memory controllers operating simultaneously
2Device complexity
If strobe point timing is fixed to simplify control, then control complexity is reduced, but data acquisition reliability deteriorates due to timing fluctuations from power supply noise and operation timing noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from fixed strobe point timing to dynamic timing adjustment. The system continuously adapts the strobe point phase relationship between DQS and DQ signals based on real-time noise conditions and acquisition results, enabling reliable operation despite timing fluctuations without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary timing calibration and noise characterization before normal operation. By pre-adjusting strobe point parameters based on detected conditions, the system establishes optimal timing margins that maintain reliability during subsequent operations without requiring continuous complex control
3Device complexity
If delay taps are not adjusted to maintain simple signal routing, then routing complexity is reduced, but signal quality deteriorates due to impedance mismatch and reflection in multi-module systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adjusts delay tap parameters to compensate for signal quality degradation in multi-module systems. By modifying the timing delay parameters of DQS, DQ, and clock signals, the system optimizes signal integrity and reduces reflection effects without changing the physical routing structure
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes: a first device; a second device connected to the first device via a transmission line; and control devices that are coupled to the first and second devices and control transmission and reception of a data signal and a timing signal between the first device and the second device, wherein the first device: determines a combination of phases with which a range of a voltage of determination as to whether the data signal is acquired is wider than a range of a voltage in which the data signal is acquired in other combinations of phases in information including combinations of phases in which a phase of the timing signal is specified for each data line in the transmission line, when the second device is operated according to the combinations of phases based on the information; and controls the second device based on the combination of the phases.