Oscillator Cycle Counting for Faster Write Training Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor devices face challenges in optimizing the timing of write training operations due to voltage and temperature fluctuations, leading to reduced throughput and increased execution time, which affects the accuracy of counting cycles in cyclic signals.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a replica circuit with an oscillator and counter that counts cycles of a signal, allowing for optimized write training timing based on counting operation results, thereby improving throughput and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the counter counts the cycle number of the first signal output by the oscillator, then the counting accuracy is improved, but the execution time is increased due to voltage and temperature fluctuations requiring write training operations
Solution Approach 1:
The counter is configured to change a count value of a cycle number of the first signal to N before the oscillator outputs an N-th cycle of the first signal. This preliminary action allows the counter to anticipate and prepare for the next cycle, reducing the effective measurement time while maintaining accuracy by pre-updating the count value before the actual cycle completes.
Solution Approach 2:
By updating the count value before the N-th cycle output, the system creates a time buffer that compensates for voltage and temperature fluctuations during write training operations. This beforehand cushioning ensures that counting accuracy is maintained even when environmental conditions cause timing variations.
2Manufacturing precision
If write training operations are performed to optimize timing, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the throughput is reduced due to increased execution time
Solution Approach 1:
The counter performs the counting update in advance before the oscillator completes the N-th cycle. This preliminary action reduces the time required for write training operations by having the count value ready beforehand, thereby improving throughput while maintaining timing accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The counter operates continuously to update count values before each cycle, ensuring that timing information is always current without requiring interruptive write training operations. This continuous operation maintains timing precision while minimizing disruptions to throughput.
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor device including an oscillator configured to output a first signal, and circuitry configured to count a cycle number of the first signal OSC. Before the oscillator outputs an N-th (N is an integer equal to or larger than 2) cycle of the first signal, the circuitry changes a count value of the cycle number of the first signal to N.