Memory Device Repairable by Soft and Hard Repair Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory devices face challenges in performing instant repair operations due to the use of non-volatile memory circuits, which take time to access data, making it difficult to perform repair operations directly using data stored in these circuits.
Innovation Solution
A memory device architecture that includes a non-volatile memory circuit for storing permanent repair data and a temporary memory circuit for storing soft repair data, with system registers to receive and store data during boot-up, allowing for both permanent and temporary repair operations based on data from these circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If non-volatile memory circuit is used to store repair data, then data retention is improved, but access speed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the repair data storage system into two separate memory circuits: a non-volatile memory circuit for storing hard repair data (permanent repairs) and a volatile memory circuit for storing soft repair data (temporary repairs). This segmentation allows each memory type to be optimized for its specific function - non-volatile memory provides data retention while volatile memory provides fast access speed, thereby resolving the contradiction between data retention and access speed.
2Ease of manufacture
If laser fuse is used for repair storage, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but programmability after packaging deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary storage mechanism (volatile memory circuit) that bridges the gap between the simple but non-reprogrammable laser fuse and the need for post-packaging programmability. The volatile memory circuit can be programmed after packaging through standard interfaces, while the non-volatile memory circuit maintains manufacturing simplicity. This intermediary approach allows the system to benefit from both the simplicity of laser fuses and the flexibility of reprogrammable memory.
3Device complexity
If single memory circuit is used for repair data, then device complexity is reduced, but repair operation flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic repair operation system that can selectively switch between hard repair mode (using non-volatile memory) and soft repair mode (using volatile memory) based on the repair command received. The control circuit dynamically determines which memory circuit to use and which repair strategy to employ, providing flexibility in repair operations. This dynamic approach allows the system to handle both permanent and temporary repair needs without requiring a single complex fixed architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory device includes a non-volatile memory circuit suitable for storing system hard repair data, a temporary memory circuit suitable for storing system soft repair data, a system register circuit suitable for receiving and storing the system hard repair data or the system soft repair data during a boot-up operation, and a memory bank suitable for performing a repair operation based on first data stored in the system register circuit.