Memory Refresh Counter Circuit for Accurate Address Reset

The counter circuit is segmented into multiple counter units, each responsible for specific bits of the address. The first counter unit handles the lowest bit with special reset logic, while subsequent units handle higher bits. This segmentation allows the reset operation to affect only the lowest bit without propagating carries to the second lowest bit, thus preventing missing refresh while maintaining modular circuit design.

An intermediate control signal mechanism is introduced between the reset signal and the counter units. The reset signal is conditioned to generate carry signals only for the first counter unit, while blocking carry propagation to the second counter unit. This intermediary control ensures that the lowest bit is reset without incorrectly incrementing the second lowest bit, resolving the reliability issue without requiring complete redesign of the counter logic.

The memory banks are divided into first banks and second banks, which perform refresh operations at different times. The first banks execute refresh operations during a first time period, while the second banks execute refresh operations during a second time period. This temporal segmentation of refresh operations across bank groups reduces the peak current demand by preventing simultaneous refresh across all banks, while still ensuring complete refresh coverage for all memory banks.

Refresh operations are organized into periodic time periods with different patterns. During a first time period, first banks perform refresh while second banks remain inactive or perform different operations. During a second time period, the pattern is reversed or adjusted. This periodic alternation of refresh operations across different bank groups smooths the current demand over time, reducing peak power consumption while maintaining data accuracy through systematic refresh coverage.