Memory Data Output Circuit for Pattern Reads Without Cell Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing semiconductor memory devices, such as SDRAMs, incur increased power consumption and operation duration during special read operations due to the need for accessing memory cells for data patterns, even when normal data is not stored, which affects performance and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor memory device with a data output circuit that outputs fixed data patterns during special read operations without accessing memory cells, thereby reducing power consumption and operation duration by utilizing a multi-purpose register and output control circuit to manage read operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If memory cells are accessed during special read operations to output data patterns, then data patterns can be output, but power consumption increases and operation duration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data pattern storage function from the memory cell array and places it in a dedicated storage unit. During special read operations, only the storage unit is accessed to output data patterns, while memory cell access is eliminated. This extraction resolves the contradiction by removing the harmful energy consumption and time delay associated with accessing memory cells for special read operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a storage unit as an intermediary component between the memory cell array and the data output circuit. This storage unit specifically stores data patterns and serves as a dedicated buffer for special read operations. By using this intermediary, the system avoids direct access to memory cells during special reads, thereby reducing power consumption and operation duration while still enabling data pattern output.
2Productivity
If memory cells are accessed during special read operations, then data patterns can be read, but the operation takes longer time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data pattern storage function from the memory cell array and places it in a dedicated storage unit. During special read operations, only the storage unit is accessed to output data patterns, while memory cell access is eliminated. This extraction resolves the contradiction by removing the harmful energy consumption and time delay associated with accessing memory cells for special read operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-storing data patterns in the storage unit before they are needed. The storage unit is configured to hold data patterns in advance, so when a special read operation is initiated, the data patterns are already available and can be output immediately without requiring time-consuming access to the memory cell array. This preliminary preparation reduces operation duration and increases speed.
Data Source
AI summary
According to example embodiments, a semiconductor memory device includes a memory cell array, a multi-purpose register, a data output circuit, and a mode register. The memory cell array is configured to store data. The multi-purpose register is configured to store a data pattern. The data output circuit is configured to output the stored data during a first output mode and output the stored data pattern during a second output mode. The mode register is configured to set the first or second output mode according to a logic level of a portion of a content of the mode register.