Semiconductor Data Output Circuit Mode Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor devices face challenges in efficiently managing data output through shared I/O lines with different burst lengths, as existing technologies require additional I/O lines when switching between modes, leading to increased layout area and operational complexity.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor system that includes a memory circuit and data output circuit capable of outputting internal data with different burst lengths through shared I/O lines by controlling internal currents based on logic level combinations, allowing data to be transmitted in both '×8' and '×16' modes without the need for additional I/O lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional I/O lines are used to support different burst lengths, then the device can operate in multiple modes, but the layout area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing I/O lines universal by enabling them to serve different burst length modes (×4, ×8, ×16) through configuration bits rather than dedicating separate lines for each mode. The data output circuit is designed to dynamically adjust its operation based on the configured burst length, allowing the same physical I/O infrastructure to handle multiple operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the data output circuit based on configuration bits that define the burst length. By modifying internal control parameters rather than physical connections, the system adapts to different modes (×4, ×8, ×16) using the same I/O lines, thereby avoiding layout area expansion while maintaining multi-mode compatibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional I/O lines are provided for different burst lengths, then mode switching is supported, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic control mechanisms where the data output circuit adjusts its behavior based on configuration bits and control signals. The circuit can dynamically switch between different burst length operations (×4, ×8, ×16) by interpreting control parameters, eliminating the need for complex static routing logic that would be required if separate I/O lines were provided for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent simplifies device complexity by changing operational parameters through software-controlled configuration bits rather than requiring complex hardware switching mechanisms. The data output circuit responds to parameter changes in the control signals and configuration registers, providing mode switching capability through flexible parameter interpretation rather than complex structural changes.
3Area of stationary object
If shared I/O lines are used for different burst lengths, then layout area is reduced, but data output control becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the data output circuit continuously monitors configuration bits and control signals to determine the appropriate burst length operation. This feedback loop allows the circuit to automatically adjust its output behavior based on the configured mode, simplifying the control logic compared to what would be needed without such feedback, while still supporting multiple burst lengths through shared I/O lines.
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor device includes a memory circuit and a data output circuit. The memory circuit outputs first internal data having a first burst length in a first mode and outputs the first internal data and second internal data in a second mode. A sum of the first and second internal data has a second burst length. The data output circuit outputs the first internal data as first output data through a first input/output line in the first mode. The data output circuit outputs the first internal data as the first output data through the first I/O line and outputs the second internal data as second output data through a second I/O line in the second mode. The data output circuit controls an internal current according to a logic level combination of the first and second internal data to generate the first and second output data in the second mode.