Memory Device Replicated Cell Segmentation for In-Memory Computing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In-Memory Computing faces challenges due to wide current distributions in memory cells, leading to inaccurate bit reading and increased computational noise and power consumption.
Innovation Solution
The method involves selecting a target memory cell and at least one replicated memory cell within the same memory string, replicating the target weight value to the replicated cells, and performing reading or computing operations on both cells simultaneously.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If In-Memory Computing is implemented with current memory cells, then data access speed is improved, but current distribution becomes wide leading to reduced reading accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the memory string into multiple segments by introducing replicated memory cells. Instead of reading a single memory cell, the system reads multiple replicated cells in parallel, effectively segmenting the reading operation. This segmentation allows the current distributions from multiple cells to combine constructively, narrowing the overall current distribution and improving reading accuracy while maintaining fast access speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs copying by creating replicated memory cells that store identical weight values as the target memory cell. These replicated cells are then read simultaneously with the target cell during computing operations. The copying of weight values to multiple cells allows for current distribution narrowing through parallel reading, resolving the contradiction between fast access and reading accuracy.
2Productivity
If In-Memory Computing is implemented with current memory cells, then data processing is enabled, but computational noise increases affecting computation accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the computing operation by reading multiple replicated memory cells simultaneously instead of a single cell. This segmentation divides the computational noise into multiple smaller noise components that cancel each other out through parallel reading, thereby reducing overall computational noise while maintaining data processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
By copying weight values to replicated memory cells, the patent enables the system to perform computations with reduced noise. The replicated cells provide redundant information that helps cancel computational noise, improving computation accuracy while preserving data processing productivity.
3Speed
If In-Memory Computing is implemented with current memory cells, then real-time analysis is achieved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the memory string into multiple replicated cells that are read in parallel. This segmentation allows the system to achieve real-time analysis speeds while reducing power consumption because the current distributions from multiple cells combine constructively, reducing the total current required compared to reading a single cell with wider current distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The copying of weight values to replicated memory cells enables real-time analysis with reduced power consumption. The replicated cells provide parallel reading paths that reduce overall current requirements while maintaining fast access speeds, thereby reducing power consumption without sacrificing real-time processing capability.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure discloses a memory device and an operation method thereof. A target memory cell and at least one replicated memory cell belonging to the same memory string are selected. A target weight value written into the target memory cell is replicated to the at least one replicated memory cell, wherein the target memory cell and the at least one replicated memory cell store the target weight value. In response to a command of reading or computing on the target memory cell received by the memory device, reading or computing is performed on the target memory cell and the at least one replicated memory cell simultaneously.