Retrieval Memory Address Continuity via Conversion Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
The TCAM device's address information output becomes discontinuous when adjusting the entry data width, leading to gaps in the address space, making address management complex and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A retrieval memory system with multiple retrieval blocks and an output control unit that adjusts the address information to ensure continuity based on the entry data size, using conversion circuits to shift block addresses and maintain a continuous address space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the entry data width is adjusted in TCAM device, then the retrieval functionality is enhanced, but the address information becomes discontinuous creating gaps in address space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a conversion circuit as an intermediary component between the TCAM array and the output interface. This conversion circuit receives the raw address information from the TCAM array and performs bit-shifting operations to generate continuous address information, thereby mediating between the variable entry data width and the requirement for continuous address space management
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of address information by performing bit-shifting operations. When the entry data width is adjusted, the conversion circuit dynamically shifts the address bits to maintain continuity. For example, when entry data width changes from 32 bits to 64 bits, the address information is shifted accordingly to eliminate gaps and maintain a continuous address space
2Quantity of substance
If multiple arrays are used to increase TCAM capacity, then the storage capacity is improved, but the address management complexity increases due to discontinuous address information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the address management of multiple TCAM arrays into a unified continuous address space. The conversion circuits in each array coordinate their address outputs so that multiple arrays (e.g., Array 0, Array 1, Array 2) present a seamless continuous address range to the external interface, eliminating the need for complex discontinuous address management
Solution Approach 2:
The conversion circuit acts as an intermediary that handles the address translation and coordination between multiple TCAM arrays and the external system. It performs the necessary bit-shifting and address synthesis to present a unified continuous address space, shielding the external system from the underlying multi-array complexity
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a retrieval memory that can easily manage address information. A retrieval memory which retrieves whether or not inputted retrieval data matches entry data stored in a memory cell array and outputs address information corresponding to matched entry data includes a plurality of retrieval blocks and an output control unit for outputting the address information. The address information includes a block address for specifying at least one of the retrieval blocks and a logical address corresponding to entry data in the specified retrieval block. The output control unit outputs address information that is reset so that the address information corresponding to the entry data becomes continuous in an address space based on a size of the entry data.