Memory Module Signal Line Layout for Crosstalk Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

As semiconductor modules shrink in size to accommodate high-density, high-performance data processing systems, the reduced layout margin for signal lines on printed circuit boards leads to issues like crosstalk and signal noise, necessitating innovative layout techniques to maintain signal integrity.

Innovation Solution

The proposed solution involves a semiconductor module layout with integrated circuit devices on a printed circuit board, decoupling parts, connecting terminals, and signal lines arranged in specific distance regions to minimize crosstalk, where decoupling parts include damping resistors or capacitors to suppress noise, and signal lines are formed on internal layers via holes to maximize spacing and reduce noise interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If the size of a memory module is decreased to achieve miniaturization, then the module size is reduced, but the layout margin of signal lines is reduced causing crosstalk and signal noise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvememory module sizeVSAvoidsignal integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes multi-layer PCB architecture to route signal lines through different vertical layers, allowing signal lines to be separated in the vertical dimension while maintaining compact horizontal footprint. This enables miniaturization without compromising signal integrity by providing additional spatial dimensions for signal routing and isolation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the PCB into multiple functional layers with dedicated signal line routes, power planes, and ground planes. By segmenting the signal paths across different layers and using via holes for inter-layer connections, the design achieves compact module size while maintaining adequate signal line spacing to prevent crosstalk.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If the number of connecting pins is increased to accommodate high-density data processing, then data processing capability is improved, but the layout space for each pin is reduced leading to signal distortion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata processing capabilityVSAvoidsignal line layout precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs multi-layer PCB construction to provide additional vertical space for routing signal lines. By distributing connecting pins and their associated signal lines across multiple layers, the design accommodates a higher number of pins without reducing the lateral spacing between adjacent signal lines, thereby maintaining manufacturing precision and signal quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent nests signal lines within a multi-layer structure where internal layers carry signal traces and external layers provide connecting pins. This nested arrangement allows high pin density on the surface while maintaining adequate spacing between signal lines on internal layers, resolving the conflict between pin count and layout precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Area of stationary object

If signal lines are placed closer together to reduce module size, then area is reduced, but crosstalk and signal noise increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovePCB areaVSAvoidcrosstalk and signal noise
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions signal line routing from a two-dimensional planar arrangement to a three-dimensional multi-layer configuration. By routing signals on different vertical layers and using via holes for connections, the design reduces the horizontal area occupied by signal lines while maintaining adequate vertical and lateral spacing to minimize crosstalk and electromagnetic interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces ground planes and power planes as intermediary structures between signal lines on adjacent layers. These intermediary planes act as shields that reduce electromagnetic coupling between signal lines, enabling closer spacing without increasing crosstalk, thus reducing PCB area while maintaining signal quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This layout effectively reduces signal crosstalk and noise, enhancing signal integrity and allowing for more compact, high-performance semiconductor modules with improved data transfer capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

decoupling parts spaced from the integrated circuit devices in a second direction, where decoupling parts include damping resistors or capacitors to suppress noise

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDamping: Damping

Data Source

PatentUS8520422B2Semiconductor modules and signal line layout methods thereof
Publication Date: 2013.08.27 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US8520422B2 patent drawing
  • US8520422B2 patent drawing
  • US8520422B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A memory module and a layout method of the memory module. The memory module includes memory devices connected to corresponding tabs through corresponding damping resistors formed on a printed circuit board and includes a first signal line group in a first region between the memory devices and the damping resistors and a second signal line group in a second region between the corresponding damping resistors and the connecting terminals.