Memory Latency Switching for Feature-Dependent Read and Write Timing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Memory devices with additional features often incur slower read and write latencies, leading to undesirable performance when these features are disabled, necessitating a way to tailor latencies for various use cases.

Innovation Solution

Memory devices are equipped with control circuitry that selects from multiple sets of latencies based on the number of enabled features, optimizing performance by applying appropriate latency values for different operational configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If additional memory operation features are enabled, then functionality and sophistication are improved, but read and write latencies increase causing slower performance

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidlatency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic latency adjustment by providing multiple latency settings that can be selected based on which optional features are enabled. The memory device transitions from a static latency configuration to a dynamic one where latencies are adjusted in real-time according to the operational feature set, resolving the contradiction between functionality and performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the latency parameter based on the configuration of optional features. By providing a first set of latencies for when optional features are disabled and a second set for when they are enabled, the system adapts timing parameters to match operational requirements, balancing enhanced functionality with acceptable performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If optional memory features are enabled, then operational capabilities are enhanced, but device performance deteriorates due to slower latencies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational capabilitiesVSAvoidperformance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts latency parameters based on the operational mode. When optional features are enabled, the memory device switches to a second set of latencies appropriate for those features; when disabled, it uses a first set optimized for baseline performance, thus maintaining productivity across different operational capability levels

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by providing different latency values based on feature configuration. This allows the memory device to optimize its timing parameters for each operational scenario, ensuring that productivity is maximized for the given set of enabled features rather than being constrained by a conservative fixed latency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250383802A1Memory devices with multiple sets of latencies and methods for operating the same
Publication Date: 2025.12.18 LODESTAR LICENSING GROUP LLC
  • US20250383802A1 patent drawing
  • US20250383802A1 patent drawing
  • US20250383802A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods, systems, and apparatuses related to memory operation with multiple sets of latencies are disclosed. A memory device or system that includes a memory device may be operable with one or several sets of latencies (e.g., read, write, or write recovery latencies), and the memory device or system may apply a set of latencies depending on which features of the memory device are enabled. For example, control circuitry may be configured to enable one or more features during operations on a memory array, and the control circuitry may apply a set of latency values based on a number or type of features that are enabled. The sets of latency values may depend, for example, on whether various control features (e.g., dynamic voltage frequency scaling) are enabled, and a device may operate within certain frequency ranges irrespective of other characteristics (e.g., mode register values) or latencies applied.