Variable-Width Memory Interface Controller for Flexible Data Bus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current interfaces between semiconductor processing devices and memory devices are not standardized, requiring custom designs for each type of memory device, limiting flexibility and efficiency in data communication, and often inefficiently handling multiple memory access and clock timing.
Innovation Solution
A standardized interface with adaptable protocols and configurable bus widths for communication between semiconductor processing devices and memory devices, allowing for flexible data transfer and simultaneous access, with the ability to derive timing signals from a synchronous clock signal, and geometric flexibility in die packaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standardized interface is implemented to support multiple memory device types, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases due to the need to handle various memory types and configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The interface controller dynamically configures the bus width and timing parameters based on the detected memory device type and capabilities. The system transitions from a fixed interface configuration to a dynamic one that adapts to different memory devices, resolving the contradiction between standardization and complexity by making the controller flexible rather than static
Solution Approach 2:
The interface controller changes operational parameters such as bus width (1-bit to 32-bit), timing signals, and clock synchronization modes based on the memory device being accessed. This parameter-based adaptation allows a single standardized interface to support multiple memory types without requiring separate dedicated interfaces for each device type
2Measurement precision
If separate lines are used for addresses and data as in prior art, then measurement precision and control are improved, but the quantity of connecting lines increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges address and data transmissions into a unified communication protocol over the same data lines. The interface controller distinguishes between address and data phases through timing and protocol control rather than physical separation, reducing the number of connecting lines while maintaining precise control through the standardized protocol
Solution Approach 2:
The communication protocol is segmented into distinct phases (address phase, data phase, control phase) that occur sequentially over the same physical lines. This temporal segmentation allows precise control of different signal types without requiring separate physical pathways, reducing the overall quantity of connecting lines
3Reliability
If custom interface designs are used for each memory device type, then reliability is improved through optimized performance, but ease of manufacture decreases due to lack of standardization
Solution Approach 1:
The interface controller is designed as a universal component that can communicate with multiple types of memory devices (SRAM, DRAM, flash memory, EEPROM) through a single standardized interface. This multi-functionality maintains reliability through optimized protocols for each memory type while improving ease of manufacture by eliminating the need for custom interface designs for each device type
4Adaptability or versatility
If the interface supports variable bus widths from 1 to 32 bits, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to configurable parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The bus width is dynamically configured based on the memory device capabilities and communication requirements. The interface controller automatically selects the appropriate bus width (1, 2, 4, 8, 16, or 32 bits) without requiring manual configuration, making the system adaptable while keeping the configuration process simple through automated detection and selection
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor device includes an interface controller for communication with a memory device over a communication link. The link includes a plurality of data lines for transmitting data. A plurality of bus width values are defined, each being a selectable number of data lines over which data are to be transmitted. The number of data lines is in the range between one and the number of the plurality of data lines. The interface controller is dynamically configurable to any of the defined bus width values, which becomes the current bus width. The transmission over each data line may be selectably in either direction. The transmission over all data lines corresponding to the current bus width may collectively carry, in at least one direction, command codes, memory addresses, and data in an intermixed manner.