Configurable Word-Width Conversion Using Data Line Grouping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory controllers in programmable logic devices (PLDs) are not entirely satisfactory in interfacing circuitry with external memory devices due to differences in word widths, requiring effective data conversion mechanisms to ensure efficient data transfer.
Innovation Solution
A circuit and method that includes a configuration identification structure and interfaces for organizing and converting data between different word widths, using a conversion section to manage incoming data segments and ensure mutual exclusivity of line groups during the conversion process, facilitating seamless data transfer between PLD circuitry and external memory devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If data conversion between different word widths is performed using existing memory controllers in PLDs, then data transfer between PLD circuitry and external memory devices can be achieved, but the conversion efficiency is insufficient and the interface compatibility is limited due to fixed word width configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic word width configuration by making the memory controller's data bus width programmable and adaptable. The controller can dynamically adjust its operational parameters to match different memory device specifications, enabling efficient data conversion between various word widths (e.g., 8-bit, 16-bit, 32-bit) without requiring fixed hardware configurations. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by providing both interface compatibility across different memory types and maintained conversion efficiency through optimized data paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes key operational parameters of the memory controller, specifically the data bus width and timing parameters, to accommodate different memory device specifications. By making these parameters configurable rather than fixed, the system achieves broad interface compatibility while maintaining optimal performance for each specific memory type through parameter optimization.
2Ease of manufacture
If a fixed word width memory controller is used, then the device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but the adaptability to different memory devices with various word widths is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal memory controller that can interface with multiple types of memory devices having different word widths. The controller incorporates programmable data buses and configurable timing parameters that allow it to function with 8-bit, 16-bit, 32-bit, and other word width configurations. This multi-functionality is achieved through systematic design choices that maintain manufacturing simplicity while dramatically expanding device compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory controller employs dynamic configuration capabilities that allow it to adapt its operational characteristics based on the specific memory device being interfaced. The data bus width and timing parameters can be programmed at initialization or configuration time, enabling the same hardware to efficiently serve multiple memory types without requiring separate fixed-width controllers for each memory type.
3Productivity
If data segments are converted without line grouping, then the conversion process is simpler and faster for single configurations, but the system cannot accommodate multiple different word width configurations effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data conversion process into manageable line groups that can be independently configured and processed. By dividing the data bus into configurable segments or groups of lines, the system can efficiently handle multiple word width configurations. Each line group can be independently enabled or disabled based on the required configuration, maintaining high conversion speed for the active configuration while preserving the ability to switch between different word widths.
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments involve a circuit having first and second interfaces, and configurable structure to identify a selected integer number that is one of a plurality of different integer numbers associated with respective different configurations. In one embodiment, a conversion section organizes lines of the second interface into line groups equal in number to the selected integer number, and carries out a conversion operation in which it supplies to each line group a respective incoming data segment received through the first interface. In another embodiment, a conversion section organizes the lines of the first interface into line groups equal in number to the selected integer number, and carries out a conversion operation in which it supplies to the second interface a respective incoming data segment from each line group.