Semiconductor Memory Variable Preamble Configuration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Semiconductor memory apparatuses face challenges in maintaining reliable operation across various frequencies without compromising power efficiency, particularly due to inaccuracies in data clock signal edge positioning at higher frequencies.

Innovation Solution

The method involves setting a preamble, which is the number of clock cycles between the first edge of the data clock signal and the first latched bit, using a configuration instruction, allowing for adjustable latency and preamble values to optimize edge positioning accuracy across different frequencies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the number of preamble cycles is increased to improve edge positioning accuracy at higher frequencies, then measurement precision improves, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveedge positioning accuracyVSAvoidpreamble duration
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the preamble length dynamic and adaptable by allowing configuration of different preamble values (e.g., 1, 2, or 3 clock cycles) based on operating conditions. The system can adjust the preamble duration dynamically depending on frequency range and edge positioning requirements, rather than using a fixed preamble length for all operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of preamble length from a fixed value to a configurable variable. By allowing the preamble value to be changed based on operating frequency and accuracy requirements, the system optimizes the balance between edge positioning accuracy and time loss for different operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If the operating frequency is increased to improve productivity, then productivity improves, but measurement precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperating frequencyVSAvoidedge positioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the preamble length based on the operating frequency. At higher frequencies where edge positioning accuracy deteriorates, the system can increase the preamble value to compensate, while at lower frequencies it can reduce the preamble to minimize time loss, thus maintaining optimal performance across different frequency ranges.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent allows changing the preamble parameter according to operating frequency. By configuring appropriate preamble values for different frequency ranges, the system maintains acceptable edge positioning accuracy even when operating at higher frequencies for improved productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If a fixed predetermined preamble is used to simplify device complexity, then device complexity decreases, but adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepreamble configurationVSAvoidfrequency range adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic preamble configuration system where the preamble value can be adjusted based on operating conditions. This is achieved through configuration instructions (such as mode register set instructions) that allow the system to adapt the preamble length to different frequency ranges and application requirements, providing versatility without significant complexity increase.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The configuration instruction mechanism serves multiple functions: it sets the preamble length, configures latency, and adapts the system to different operating frequencies. This multi-functional approach allows a single configuration system to handle various operating conditions, reducing the need for separate configuration mechanisms for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7499371B2Semiconductor memory system with a variable and settable preamble f
Publication Date: 2009.03.03 POLARIS INNOVATIONS LTD
  • US7499371B2 patent drawing
  • US7499371B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a method for operating a semiconductor memory apparatus, comprising: transmitting a command instruction, particularly a write instruction and/or a read instruction, to the semiconductor memory apparatus; transmitting a data signal to and/or from the semiconductor memory apparatus; and transmitting a data clock signal is transmitted for the purpose of latching the data signal; wherein the preamble (P), which is the number of clock cycles between the first edge of the data clock signal (WQDS) and the first bit (D0) of the data signal (DQ), can be set. The invention also relates to a semiconductor memory system comprising a semiconductor memory apparatus and a processor unit configured to perform the method.