Memory Interface Circuitry Non-Power-of-2 Data Rate Configuration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Memory system designers face limitations in independently configuring core and interface data rates due to signal integrity issues associated with high-volume and low-cost packaging interconnects, making it difficult to achieve optimal bandwidth without new and costly packaging technologies.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a semiconductor memory system with integrated circuit devices that allow for a non-power-of-2 ratio between core and interface data rates, achieved through spatial or temporal distribution of data bits and flexible clock signal generation, enabling independent adjustment of core and interface data rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If power-of-2 relationships are implemented in pin counts and link data rates, then straightforward configuration is achieved, but flexibility in balancing pin counts and link rates is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic configuration capabilities that allow the memory system to adjust core I/O paths and link rates independently in real-time. The system transitions from static power-of-2 relationships to dynamic configurable relationships, enabling designers to optimize for different operating conditions without being constrained by fixed ratios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the system by allowing core I/O paths and link rates to be configured independently rather than being locked into power-of-2 relationships. This enables continuous adjustment of parameters like pin counts and data rates to achieve optimal performance for specific applications.
2Productivity
If link data rate is doubled while halving the number of interface links, then total bandwidth is maintained, but signal integrity issues arise with high-volume and low-cost packaging interconnects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the interface into multiple independent configurable links rather than relying on a few high-speed links. By dividing the total bandwidth across more links with lower individual rates, the system maintains productivity while improving signal integrity on each link segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the number of active links and their individual rates based on signal integrity requirements. When packaging interconnects show degradation, the system can reduce link rates or activate additional links to maintain reliable operation while preserving total bandwidth.
3Adaptability or versatility
If independent configuration of core and interface data rates is enabled, then design flexibility is significantly improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal configuration framework that handles multiple configuration scenarios through a unified interface. The same basic infrastructure supports various modes of operation (different core I/O paths, different link rates, different combinations), reducing the need for separate specialized circuits for each configuration type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces configuration intermediaries (control logic, state machines, or software interfaces) that manage the complexity of independent parameter adjustment. These intermediaries abstract the complexity from the user while enabling fine-grained control of core I/O paths and link rates.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit device is disclosed including core circuitry and interface circuitry. The core circuitry outputs in parallel a set of data bits, while the interface circuitry couples to the core circuitry. The interface circuitry receives in parallel a first number of data bits among the set of data bits from the core circuitry and outputs in parallel a second number of data bits. The ratio of the first number to the second number is a non-power-of-2 value.