Memory Device Refresh Command Queueing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Memory devices face increased power consumption and decreased bandwidth due to the inability to execute access commands during the row refresh time (tRFC), leading to inefficiencies in re-opening rows after refresh operations.
Innovation Solution
The memory device stores information such as row addresses and commands during tRFC, allowing for simultaneous or concurrent re-opening of rows and execution of commands after the refresh operation, reducing the timing and power consumption associated with re-opening rows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the memory device waits for the refresh operation to complete before re-opening rows, then data integrity is maintained, but power consumption increases and bandwidth decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device stores row addresses and commands in advance during the refresh operation (tRFC period). This preliminary storage of information allows the device to immediately re-open rows and execute commands without waiting for the refresh to complete, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining data integrity through the pre-planned sequence of operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory device continues to perform useful actions during the refresh operation by storing addresses and commands in the command queue. Instead of remaining idle during tRFC, the device utilizes this period productively, enabling seamless continuation of operations after refresh without increasing power consumption or reducing bandwidth.
2Reliability
If the memory device waits for the refresh operation to complete before re-opening rows, then data integrity is maintained, but bandwidth decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Row addresses and commands are stored in advance during the refresh operation. This preliminary action enables the memory device to immediately execute multiple operations after refresh without waiting for the refresh to complete, thereby maintaining data integrity while maximizing bandwidth utilization through continuous productive operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory device maintains continuous productive action by storing commands during refresh and executing them immediately afterward. This eliminates idle time and maintains high bandwidth utilization while ensuring data integrity through the structured sequence of pre-planned operations.
3Ease of operation
If multiple access commands are issued to re-open rows after refresh, then complete row access is achieved, but timing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device merges multiple row re-opening operations and command executions into a single coordinated sequence that occurs immediately after refresh. By combining these operations and executing them in a streamlined manner using pre-stored addresses and commands, the device achieves complete row access while minimizing the total timing required.
Solution Approach 2:
Addresses and commands are stored in advance during refresh, enabling the memory device to execute multiple row access operations in a coordinated, time-efficient sequence immediately after refresh. This preliminary preparation eliminates timing delays that would otherwise be required to sequence multiple access commands.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices for refresh-related activation in memory are described. A memory device may conduct a refresh operation to preserve the integrity of data. A refresh operation may be associated with a refresh time where the memory device is unable to execute or issue any commands (e.g., access commands). By posting (e.g., saving) one or more commands and/or row addresses during the refresh time, the memory device may be configured to execute the saved commands and/or re-open one or more rows associated with the saved row addresses at a later time (e.g., upon completion of the refresh operation). Accordingly, fewer commands may be issued to activate the memory cells after the refresh time.