Memory Device Partial Write Control via Mask Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current semiconductor memory systems face challenges in performing partial write operations efficiently, particularly in units smaller than cache line sizes, which leads to increased power consumption and inefficient data management.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method that includes a partial write command with a partial write enable signal and mask signals, allowing for the storage of data in memory cells based on these signals, enabling partial write operations without the need for separate data mask signals, and optimizing power usage by controlling data strobe signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If partial write operations are performed using traditional methods, then data can be written to memory, but power consumption increases and data management becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the write operation into selective portions by introducing mask signals (DM0-DM3) that divide the data bus into independently controllable segments. Each mask signal controls whether corresponding data bits are written to memory, allowing only necessary portions to be processed and stored, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining efficient data management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial write operations where only the necessary portion of data is written to memory instead of requiring full cache line writes. By using mask signals to enable selective writing of data bits, the system performs exactly the amount of write operation needed, avoiding excessive power consumption from writing unnecessary data while maintaining data management efficiency.
2Productivity
If data is written in units smaller than cache line sizes, then memory usage becomes more efficient, but the complexity of controlling write operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the data mask function with the write enable signal by using the same command interface and integrating mask control logic within the memory device. This combination allows partial write operations to be initiated through a unified command structure rather than requiring separate control mechanisms, thereby improving memory usage efficiency without proportionally increasing control complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask signals serve multiple functions: they enable partial write operations, control data selection, and work in conjunction with write enable signals. This multi-functionality allows the same control structure to handle various write scenarios (full write, partial write, selective bit write) without requiring separate control paths, thus improving memory usage efficiency while keeping control complexity manageable.
3Measurement precision
If separate data mask signals are used for partial write operations, then precise data control is achieved, but the number of signals and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the data mask function with existing write enable signals and command structures. Instead of introducing completely separate mask signal lines, the mask functionality is integrated into the command interface and existing signal pathways, achieving precise data control while minimizing the increase in signal quantity and system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An operation method of a memory device, having a plurality of memory cells, includes receiving a partial write command, which includes a partial write enable signal (PWE) and a plurality of mask signals, during a command/address input interval. A data strobe signal is received through a data strobe line after receiving the partial write command Data is received through a plurality of data lines in synchronization with the data strobe signal during a data input interval. A part of the data is stored in the plurality of memory cells based on the plurality of mask signals, in response to the partial write enable signal, during a data write interval.