Memory Module Controller Timing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional memory systems require a long time to initialize memory modules and struggle with controlling interface timing due to the need for external memory controllers, which limits performance and makes it difficult to handle various memory devices with different interface timings.
Innovation Solution
A memory system with a memory module controller that stores and controls interface timing information within the memory module, using a packet-type serial method to provide data and generate memory signals, allowing for independent initialization and timing control of memory devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If an external memory controller is used to control memory modules, then the memory system can operate with conventional architecture, but the operation speed is reduced and performance is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the memory controller functionality directly into the memory module by integrating a controller circuit on the same substrate as the memory devices. This eliminates the need for separate external controllers and reduces signal transmission distance, thereby improving operation speed while maintaining manageable complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a buffer memory as an intermediary component between the memory devices and the external interface. This buffer memory mediates data transfer operations, allowing the integrated controller to manage multiple memory devices efficiently without compromising speed, thus resolving the contradiction between improved speed and controlled complexity.
2Loss of time
If memory initialization and timing information is stored in external SPD, then memory information can be collected and processed, but the initialization time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-storing timing control information directly in the buffer memory within the memory module, rather than requiring external SPD retrieval during initialization. This allows the integrated controller to immediately access and apply timing parameters, significantly reducing initialization time while keeping the storage architecture simple through internal memory integration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple memory devices with different interface timings are used, then memory module capacity and versatility are improved, but timing control becomes difficult and errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning dedicated timing control parameters to each memory device type within the module. The integrated controller reads device-specific timing information from the buffer memory and applies customized timing sequences for each device, enabling support for multiple device types with different interface timings while maintaining high timing control accuracy and preventing errors.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory system for controlling interface timing in a memory module and a related timing control method are disclosed. The memory system comprises a memory module having a memory module controller configured to control interface timing of a plurality of memory devices in accordance with memory information and memory signal information. The memory information includes memory initialization information and interface timing information for the plurality of memory devices.