Memory Interface Termination Control with Unified Command Decoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity in controlling termination circuits in memory devices, which leads to increased burdens on memory controllers and complicates the design of memory systems, as the control methods for turn-on/off and resistance value changes are managed differently through ODT signals and command signals.
Innovation Solution
A unified control method for termination circuits in memory devices, where a termination command is used to enable a termination control unit to decode and manage termination operations, simplifying the control of termination units and resistance values across interface pads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate ODT signals and command signals are used to control termination circuits, then termination operations can be performed, but the control complexity increases and the burden on memory controllers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate ODT signals and command signals into a unified command structure. The memory controller issues a single command that simultaneously controls both the termination circuit state and resistance value, eliminating the need for separate signal paths and reducing control complexity while maintaining reliable termination operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The unified command structure serves multiple functions: it controls termination circuit activation/deactivation, sets termination resistance values, and coordinates timing operations. This multi-functional approach replaces the previous separate signaling mechanisms, reducing the burden on memory controllers while achieving the same termination control objectives.
2Reliability
If separate ODT signals and command signals are used to control termination circuits, then termination operations can be performed, but the design of memory systems becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges separate ODT signal paths and command signal paths into a unified command interface. This consolidation simplifies the overall system design by reducing the number of signal lines, control logic units, and coordination mechanisms required, making memory system design more straightforward while maintaining reliable termination control.
3Measurement precision
If termination circuits are controlled through separate signals, then precise control is achieved, but the burden on memory controllers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The unified command structure performs multiple control functions simultaneously: it activates/deactivates termination circuits, sets resistance values, and manages timing. This multi-functional command reduces the number of separate control operations the memory controller must manage, easing the controller burden while maintaining precise termination control through the integrated command parameters.
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor device includes a plurality of first input units configured to receive a command, a second input unit configured to receive a termination command, a termination control unit configured to be enabled by the termination command and decode the command to control a termination operation, and a termination unit configured to be controlled by the termination control unit and terminate an interface pad.