SDRAM Control Module Dynamic Pin Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conventional SDRAM architecture lacks flexibility in verifying and correcting defects, flaws, or errors, especially those related to special functions, making it challenging to diagnose and rectify issues.
Innovation Solution
A control module and method that includes a controller and registers, allowing the SDRAM to switch from a bus data access mode to a dynamic pin (DPIN) operation mode, enabling users to set register values to execute special commands by triggering specific pins, thereby enhancing operational flexibility and error correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional SDRAM controllers are developed to execute required commands and specific functions, then the SDRAM can perform specialized operations, but it becomes very challenging to verify or correct defects, flaws, or errors in the SDRAM's operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic operation mode switching mechanism that allows the SDRAM controller to transition between normal operation mode and test operation mode. In normal mode, the controller executes required commands and specific functions for specialized operations. In test mode, the same controller can execute test commands to verify and correct defects. This dynamic switching capability resolves the contradiction by enabling the system to adapt its functionality based on operational needs without requiring separate hardware for testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the SDRAM controller universal by enabling it to perform multiple functions: both normal data access operations and test/verification operations. The controller can execute different types of commands (normal commands and test commands) and operate in different modes (normal operation mode and test operation mode). This multi-functionality allows a single controller to handle both specialized operations and defect verification, eliminating the trade-off between adaptability and reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the SDRAM controller is designed for specific functions, then it can execute specialized commands, but the device complexity increases making error correction more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic mode switching within the existing controller structure, allowing it to transition between normal operation mode and test operation mode. This approach avoids increasing device complexity by reusing the same controller hardware for both specialized functions and test functions, rather than adding separate test controllers or complex verification infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The SDRAM controller is designed to perform self-verification through test commands that can be executed within the same controller structure. The controller can independently test its own operation and the SDRAM's operation without requiring external verification equipment. This self-service capability reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for separate verification systems while maintaining the ability to execute specialized functions.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a control module and a control method thereof for an SDRAM. The control module includes at least one register and a controller. The controller is configured to: control the SDRAM to switch from a bus data access mode to a dynamic pin (DPIN) operating mode; setting value of the at least one register under the DPIN operating mode; and control the SDRAM according to the value of the at least one register.