Semiconductor Memory Data Output Circuit Layout Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing semiconductor memory apparatus faces challenges in reducing layout area and data output time due to the need for local data bus lines to transmit data among sense amplifiers, which complicates circuit design and increases data output time as memory capacity increases.
Innovation Solution
A data output circuit that includes a first control signal generating unit and a data selecting unit to select and output data from data lines corresponding to the currently set unit data output mode, eliminating the need for local data bus lines by using a first control signal based on the row address and a read command to directly output data through the data lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If local data bus lines are used to transmit data among sense amplifiers, then data can be transmitted between sense amplifiers, but layout area increases and circuit design becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the local data bus lines from the memory bank structure, extracting the data transmission function from the traditional bus-based approach. Sense amplifiers directly output data to external pads through simplified connections, eliminating the need for intermediate local data bus infrastructure and reducing layout complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The data lines are designed to serve multiple functions: they act as sense amplifier outputs, data transmission paths, and direct connections to external pads. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate local data bus lines, reducing overall circuit complexity while maintaining data transmission capability.
2Reliability
If local data bus lines are used to transmit data among sense amplifiers, then data can be transmitted between sense amplifiers, but circuit design becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the local data bus lines from the memory bank structure, extracting the data transmission function from the traditional bus-based approach. Sense amplifiers directly output data to external pads through simplified connections, eliminating the need for intermediate local data bus infrastructure and reducing layout complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The data lines are designed to serve multiple functions: they act as sense amplifier outputs, data transmission paths, and direct connections to external pads. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate local data bus lines, reducing overall circuit complexity while maintaining data transmission capability.
3Reliability
If local data bus lines are used to transmit data among sense amplifiers, then data can be transmitted between sense amplifiers, but data output time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the local data bus lines from the memory bank structure, extracting the data transmission function from the traditional bus-based approach. Sense amplifiers directly output data to external pads through simplified connections, eliminating the need for intermediate local data bus infrastructure and reducing layout complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a direct data path that allows data to skip the intermediate local data bus transmission stage. Sense amplifier outputs are directly connected to external pads, allowing data to rush through the output path without the time delay associated with multiple bus transmission stages.
Data Source
AI summary
The data output circuit for a semiconductor memory apparatus includes a first control signal generating unit configured to generate a first control signal according to a row address and a read command; and a data selecting unit configured to select data from a data line corresponding to a presently selected unit data output mode among data lines according to the first control signal or a second control signal, and output the data.