Memory Data Output Timing for Latency-Period Retraining Checks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Memory devices face challenges in efficiently transmitting data to memory controllers for determining the need for retraining operations, leading to potential failures due to skew between data and clock signals caused by changes in operating environments.
Innovation Solution
A memory device with a data output circuit that transmits status data during a latency period in response to a read enable signal, allowing the memory controller to determine if a retraining operation is necessary, thereby improving memory performance by ensuring timely retraining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the memory device transmits status data during the latency period, then the memory controller can determine whether retraining is needed in a timely manner, but the data transmission timing becomes more complex and may cause skew between data and clock signals
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device transmits status data during the latency period, which is the time period between receiving the read command and when the actual data becomes ready. This preliminary transmission of status information allows the memory controller to determine whether retraining is needed before the actual data transmission begins, resolving the contradiction by utilizing otherwise idle time for useful communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The status data acts as an intermediary information carrier that conveys the memory device's state (including whether retraining is needed) to the memory controller without interfering with the main data transmission path. This intermediary mechanism enables timely decision-making while maintaining the integrity of the primary data communication channel.
2Productivity
If the memory device transmits status data during the latency period, then retraining operations can be performed timely, but the data transmission protocol becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the status data transmission with the existing data line infrastructure, combining multiple functions (status communication and data transmission) into a unified protocol framework. This approach improves productivity by enabling timely retraining decisions while avoiding the need for separate dedicated communication channels that would increase system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The data lines are designed to serve multiple purposes: transmitting status data during the latency period and transmitting actual memory data during the active period. This multi-functional use of existing infrastructure improves operational efficiency without proportionally increasing protocol complexity, as the same physical channels handle different types of information at different times.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory device includes a memory cell array configured to store data; and a data output circuit configured to transmit status data to an external device through at least one data line in a latency period in response to a read enable signal received from the external device and transmit the data read from the memory cell array to the external device through the at least one data line in a period subsequent to the latency period.