Semiconductor Output Buffer Paths for Faster SDR and DDR Transfers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of logic circuits in semiconductor devices leads to decreased data transfer speed and increased transferring time, limiting the performance of memory devices.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of separate data paths and logic circuits for lower-speed-type (SDR) and higher-speed-type (DDR) data transfers within the data output buffer of semiconductor devices, reducing logic complexity and capacitor loading on critical paths to enhance data transfer speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex logic circuits are used in semiconductor devices, then functionality and versatility are improved, but data transfer speed decreases and transferring time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data transfer path by separating the output buffer logic from the core logic circuits. The output buffer is implemented as a standalone structure with simplified logic that interfaces between the core and external devices, thereby reducing the complexity burden on the critical data transfer path while maintaining overall functionality through modular design
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex logic circuits are used in semiconductor devices, then functionality is improved, but transferring time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the output buffer functionality from the core logic circuits and implements it as a separate, dedicated structure. This extraction removes complex logic operations from the critical data transfer path, thereby reducing transferring time while preserving the necessary functionality through the specialized buffer design
3Speed
If separate data paths for SDR and DDR are implemented, then data transfer speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing different buffer configurations tailored to specific data transfer modes (SDR vs. DDR) within the output buffer structure. Rather than creating entirely separate paths, the buffer is locally optimized with mode-specific logic circuits that activate based on the selected transfer mode, thereby achieving speed optimization without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, methods, circuits, and devices for managing data transfers in semiconductor devices are provided. In one aspect, an integrated circuit includes: a first interface for receiving higher-speed-type data (512), a second interface for receiving lower-speed-type data (522), a first logic circuit coupled to the first interface, a second logic circuit coupled to the second interface, and a driving circuit separately coupled to the first logic circuit and the second logic circuit. The first data interface, the first logic circuit, and the driving circuit are arranged in series to form a first data path for transferring the higher-speed-type data with a first speed (514). The second data interface, the second logic circuit, and the driving circuit are arranged in series to form a second data path for transferring the lower-speed-type data with a second speed (524). The first speed is higher the second speed (524).