Memory Device Word Line Active Period Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Memory devices face data loss due to word line disturbance, where the activation of an active word line causes fluctuations in adjacent word lines, leading to increased probability of data loss, especially when the active word line is activated for a long period.
Innovation Solution
A memory device with measurement and refresh blocks that count the number of periodic wave transitions and generate codes to measure the active period of word lines, triggering refresh operations when the active period exceeds a threshold, thereby preventing data loss by refreshing adjacent word lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If an active word line is activated for a long period, then productivity is improved, but data loss increases due to word line disturbance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by measuring the active period of word lines in advance and triggering refresh operations before data loss occurs. The measurement block continuously monitors the active period, and when a threshold is detected, the refresh block proactively refreshes adjacent word lines to prevent word line disturbance from causing data loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the measurement block that continuously monitors the active period of word lines and provides this information to the refresh block. Based on this feedback, the system dynamically adjusts refresh operations to occur when the active period exceeds a threshold, creating a closed-loop control system that prevents data loss while maintaining productivity.
2Reliability
If refresh operations are performed frequently, then data loss is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the refresh control mechanism into distinct functional blocks: a measurement block that monitors active periods, a threshold comparison unit that determines when refresh is needed, and a refresh block that executes the actual refresh operation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable data retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement block performs self-service by automatically measuring the active period of word lines and generating appropriate signals without requiring external intervention. The system monitors itself and triggers refresh operations autonomously based on detected thresholds, eliminating the need for complex external control mechanisms.
3Reliability
If measurement and refresh blocks are added, then data loss is prevented, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the measurement and refresh functions into an integrated control system where the measurement block and refresh block work together as a coordinated unit. By combining these functions rather than implementing separate independent systems, the patent reduces manufacturing complexity while achieving reliable data retention through unified measurement and refresh operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory device includes a counter suitable for counting the number of times that a periodic wave is enabled and generating a code, one or more memory banks each including a plurality of word lines, and one or more measurement blocks corresponding to the memory banks, respectively, and suitable for measuring an active period of an activated word line in a corresponding memory bank among the memory banks, wherein each of the measurement blocks measures the active period of the activated word line based on a first value of the code at an activation starting point of the corresponding memory bank and a current value of the code.