Semiconductor Memory Device Variable Preamble Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional semiconductor memory devices face challenges in synchronizing the strobe state of a data strobe signal due to a fixed generation cycle of the preamble state, which can lead to abnormal operations if the generation cycle is increased without considering the operating frequency.

Innovation Solution

A semiconductor memory device and method that allow for variable generation cycles of the preamble state of the data strobe signal by adjusting the clock cycle, enabling flexible synchronization with the operating frequency through setting CAS latency, burst length, and preamble cycle signals during mode setting operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If the generation cycle of the preamble state is increased, then the synchronization time is improved, but the operating frequency compatibility deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynchronization timeVSAvoidoperating frequency compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the preamble generation cycle variable rather than fixed. The control circuit dynamically adjusts the preamble generation cycle based on the operating frequency of the memory device, allowing the system to adapt its timing characteristics to different frequency requirements while maintaining proper synchronization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of preamble generation cycle from a fixed value to a variable parameter that can be adjusted according to operating frequency. The control circuit receives frequency information and modifies the preamble cycle parameter accordingly, enabling the system to optimize synchronization time for each operating frequency while maintaining compatibility across different frequency ranges.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If the preamble state generation cycle is fixed, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to abnormal operations at different frequencies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol circuit complexityVSAvoidoperation reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The control circuit implements dynamic adjustment of the preamble generation cycle based on detected operating frequency. This dynamic approach prevents abnormal operations that would occur with a fixed cycle at different frequencies, thereby improving reliability without requiring overly complex manual configuration systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control circuit automatically detects the operating frequency and self-adjusts the preamble generation cycle without external intervention. This self-service mechanism ensures reliable operation across different frequencies while keeping the overall device complexity manageable, as the system autonomously configures itself based on its operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS7778094B2Semiconductor memory device and latency signal generating method thereof
Publication Date: 2010.08.17 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US7778094B2 patent drawing
  • US7778094B2 patent drawing
  • US7778094B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A latency signal generating method and a corresponding semiconductor memory device, among other things, are disclosed. Such a method includes: receiving a clock signal for the semiconductor memory device; receiving a mode characterization signal; providing the DQS; and adapting the duration of a preamble state of the DQS according to the mode characterization signal to promote conformance of a strobe state of the DQS with the clock signal.