Semiconductor Memory Port Configuration Area Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional semiconductor memory devices with a large number of input and output ports result in unnecessary circuits and reduced circuit area efficiency, as they do not effectively utilize all ports, leading to suboptimal storage capacity and area utilization.
Innovation Solution
The semiconductor memory device configuration is modified by connecting two two-port memories in a way that allows them to function as a three-port memory, with the number of ports adjusted by modifying metal layers or via layers, enabling increased storage capacity without increasing the circuit area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a semiconductor memory device is designed with a large number of input and output ports to increase area, then the device can support more connections, but unnecessary circuits are created and circuit area efficiency is reduced when not all ports are used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a basic cell structure that can serve multiple port configurations. The same basic cell is used whether the device operates as a two-port, three-port, or four-port memory, allowing the device to adapt to different port requirements without requiring separate circuit designs for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the port configuration adjustable and reconfigurable. The device can dynamically change its operational mode between different port configurations through software control or configuration settings, allowing the port structure to adapt to actual usage requirements rather than being fixed at design time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the basic cell structure is modified to support more ports, then the device can handle more connections, but the circuit area increases and storage capacity per unit area decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a universal basic cell design that maintains the same structure regardless of the total number of ports. Each basic cell contains the essential memory elements (flip-flops, transistors, capacitors) needed for storage operations, and these cells are replicated and connected in different configurations to achieve two-port, three-port, or four-port functionality without changing the fundamental cell structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the memory device into multiple independent basic cells that can be independently configured. Each basic cell is a self-contained unit that can function autonomously, and by connecting multiple such segments in various arrangements, the device achieves different port configurations while maintaining efficient area utilization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a semiconductor memory device with maximum ports is used to accommodate future needs, then adaptability is improved, but circuit area is wasted when fewer ports are actually used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic reconfiguration of the memory device to match actual usage requirements. The device can be programmed or configured at runtime to operate with the appropriate number of active ports, whether two, three, or four, allowing full utilization of circuit resources based on real-time needs rather than being locked into a fixed maximum configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters such as which ports are actively connected and how basic cells are interconnected based on the required functionality. By adjusting connection parameters and operational modes rather than changing the physical hardware structure, the device achieves adaptability while maintaining optimal resource utilization for the current application.
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor memory device according to an embodiment includes first and second storages that enable writing and reading of data. The first decoding line and the third decoding line are electrically connected to each other. The first bit line and the third bit line are electrically connected to each other.