Programmable Logic Memory Controller with Preconfigured Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory controller solutions for programmable logic devices (PLDs) are not entirely satisfactory as they either require a standalone external device or are created during field programming, lacking a dedicated memory controller circuit before programming, which can lead to inefficiencies in data transfer between the PLD and external memory devices.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a dedicated memory controller circuit within the field programmable circuitry of the PLD before field programming, allowing for efficient data transfer between the PLD fabric and external memory devices through a control, interface, and data storage portion, with separate and independently configurable command and data ports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a memory controller is implemented as a standalone external device, then the PLD can interface with external memory devices, but the system complexity increases and data transfer efficiency decreases due to additional interfacing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the memory controller functionality directly within the PLD device, merging previously separate components (PLD and external memory controller) into a single integrated unit. This integration eliminates the need for complex external interfacing while improving data transfer efficiency between the PLD fabric and external memory devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a memory controller is created during field programming, then the PLD can adapt to different memory configurations, but the programming complexity increases and the device lacks a dedicated memory controller circuit before programming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dedicated memory controller circuit that is pre-configured within the PLD before field programming occurs. This preliminary provision of the memory controller eliminates the need to create it during programming, reducing programming complexity while maintaining adaptability through configurable interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory controller is designed with universally configurable interfaces that can adapt to different memory configurations and PLD architectures. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware controller to serve various memory types and configurations without requiring complex programming to create the controller itself.
3Productivity
If general purpose circuit components are used to create a memory controller during field programming, then the PLD can be programmed to include memory control functionality, but the data transfer performance is insufficient compared to a dedicated memory controller circuit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the dedicated memory controller circuit directly with the PLD fabric, creating a unified architecture that enables high-performance data transfer. The controller is integrated at the circuit level rather than being software-emulated, providing hardware-accelerated memory access while maintaining configurability through programmable interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A technique is provided for memory control in a device having programmable circuitry, including providing a dedicated memory controller circuit in the device before the programmable circuitry is field programmed. Another technique involves fabricating a device, where the fabricating involves forming programmable circuitry that includes a dedicated memory controller circuit before the circuitry is field programmed.