Memory Controller State Machine for Shared Pin Arbitration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dedicating processor resources to coordinate multiple memory controllers impairs system performance and occupies valuable pin connections, necessitating an improved system and method for controlling memory operations.
Innovation Solution
A system with a first memory controller and a state machine that requests control of shared pins between non-volatile and volatile memory devices, using a multiplexer to dynamically select data paths and adjust clock frequencies to optimize resource usage and reduce power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If processor resources are dedicated to coordinate multiple memory controllers, then memory control coordination is improved, but system performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The memory controllers are equipped with embedded state machines that autonomously manage pin sharing and coordination between memory devices. Each controller independently tracks pin usage states and automatically grants or denies access without requiring processor intervention, thereby eliminating the performance penalty associated with dedicated processor resources while maintaining reliable coordination.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple memory controllers are connected to multiple memory devices, then memory device connectivity is improved, but pin connection availability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements pin sharing between multiple memory controllers by merging the physical pin resources into a common pool. The embedded state machines in each controller coordinate access to shared data pins, allowing multiple memory devices to be connected through fewer physical pins than would traditionally be required, thereby improving connectivity while reducing pin connection complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically allocates shared pins between different memory controllers based on operational needs. The state machines continuously monitor and adjust pin assignment in real-time, allowing the same physical pins to serve different memory devices at different times, thus maximizing pin utilization and reducing the total number of pins required.
3Productivity
If shared pins are used between memory controllers, then pin usage efficiency is improved, but control coordination complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Each memory controller incorporates an embedded state machine that autonomously manages its own pin access requests and grants. The state machines independently track the state of shared pins, automatically coordinate access without external arbitration, and handle error conditions, thereby simplifying control coordination despite the complexity of shared pin usage.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for controlling memory operations is disclosed. In a particular embodiment, the system includes a memory controller that can request control of a contact that is shared between a first memory device and a second memory device. In a particular embodiment, the memory controller includes a state machine to request and receive control of the contact. In another particular embodiment, the first memory device is a non-volatile memory device and the second memory device is a volatile memory device.