Memory Write Buffer Path That Bypasses DQ Pins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory systems face increased signaling overhead and complexity in write operations due to the use of DQ pins and timing components, leading to higher latency and larger footprints.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a WRP buffer that receives commands and data from registers directly, bypassing DQ pins, to perform write operations, reducing signaling overhead and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If DQ pins and timing components are used for write operations, then data can be written to memory cells, but signaling overhead and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes DQ pins and timing components from the write operation path. By using a dedicated write path that bypasses DQ pins and utilizes write-specific latches and multiplexers, the signaling overhead and timing complexity associated with dual-purpose DQ pins are eliminated, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining write operation reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the data path into separate write and read paths. Write data is routed through dedicated write latches and multiplexers controlled by write enable signals, while read data uses separate read latches and multiplexers. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each path, reducing signaling complexity for write operations without affecting read operations
2Productivity
If DQ pins are used for write operations, then data transmission is possible, but latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by using write latches that capture write data in advance and hold it ready for transmission. The write data is latched on the rising edge of the clock signal before the actual write operation, allowing the data to be prepared and staged in advance, thereby reducing the critical path latency and enabling faster write operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces write latches and write multiplexers as intermediary components between the DQ pins and the memory array. These intermediaries buffer and condition the write data, allowing for synchronized data capture and streamlined transmission to the memory cells, which reduces overall write latency by eliminating direct long-path signaling
3Adaptability or versatility
If more signaling components are added for write operations, then data writing capability is enhanced, but footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing write latches and multiplexers that can handle multiple write scenarios (different data sources, different memory banks) through a single unified write path. The write multiplexers selectively route data from various sources to the appropriate memory locations, providing enhanced write capability without requiring separate dedicated paths for each scenario, thus minimizing footprint
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the write data path with the existing memory interface structure by integrating write latches into the existing latch network and using the same clock and control signal infrastructure. This consolidation allows the write functionality to be added without proportionally increasing the footprint, as shared resources are utilized across read and write operations
4Manufacturing precision
If complex timing signals are used for write operations, then precise data writing is achieved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic clock signals to control write operations, with write latches triggered on specific clock edges (rising or falling). This periodic timing mechanism provides precise synchronization without requiring complex continuous timing signals, as the regular clock rhythm naturally establishes precise timing intervals, reducing the energy required for timing control while maintaining write precision
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices for techniques for performing write operations are described. A controller of a memory system may generate a first command to write first data to a first set of memory cells of a memory array of the memory system. The controller may transmit the first command to a first buffer of the memory system. The first buffer may receive the first command and may generate the first data based on second data from a first address of a register. The first buffer may transmit the first data to the first set of memory cells, via a first buffer, based on the first command.