Memory Data Signal Mirroring for PCB Routing Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory systems face challenges in maintaining signal integrity and reducing size and power consumption while managing complex signal routing between memory devices on a printed circuit board, particularly due to the need for descrambling signals across different sides of the board.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a data signal mirroring method within memory devices, where a mirroring component configures data inputs/outputs based on received data patterns, allowing for electronic mirroring of signals to simplify routing and reduce the complexity of signal connections across the PCB.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional signal routing methods are used across different sides of the PCB, then signal integrity can be maintained, but the routing complexity and descrambling requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by introducing a mirroring mechanism that creates a symmetric reflection of data signals across the PCB. Memory devices on opposite sides of the PCB are configured with mirrored data input/output pins, allowing signals to be routed symmetrically through the PCB layers. This symmetric routing approach simplifies the routing structure while maintaining signal integrity, as the mirrored configuration eliminates the need for complex descrambling operations that would otherwise be required to maintain signal integrity across asymmetric routing paths.
2Quantity of substance
If memory devices are arranged to maximize capacity, then storage capability increases, but the number of pins and routing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the data signal routing functions by implementing a shared mirrored data bus structure. Multiple memory devices on opposite sides of the PCB share common mirrored data input/output pins through the PCB's routing layers. This merging approach allows multiple memory devices to access the same physical routing paths through symmetric reflection, significantly reducing the total number of unique pins required while maintaining the capacity to support multiple memory devices. The mirrored configuration enables compact arrangement of memory devices without proportionally increasing pin count.
3Productivity
If traditional data signal routing is used, then data transmission can be achieved, but power consumption increases due to complex descrambling operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potential harm of mirrored signal routing (which might seem to complicate signal integrity) into a benefit by using the mirroring symmetry to simplify the routing structure. The mirrored data input/output pin configuration allows data signals to be transmitted through symmetric PCB routing paths that are easier to implement and consume less power. By configuring memory devices with mirrored pins, the system eliminates the need for complex descrambling operations that would otherwise be required to maintain signal integrity, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining data transmission capability.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices, and systems for data signal mirroring are described. One or more methods include receiving a particular data pattern on a number of data inputs/outputs of a memory component, and responsive to determining that a mirrored version of the particular data pattern is received by the memory component, configuring the number of data inputs/outputs to be mirrored.