Content-addressable memory implemented using programmable logic
US6278289A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 1, 2000 |
| Grant date | Aug 21, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 1, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG11C15/00
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Described are systems and methods that take advantage of the run-time reconfigurability of modern programmable logic devices to efficiently implement content-addressable memory (CAM) circuits. Rather than using configurable logic to compare CAM entries stored in flip-flops, a CAM in accordance with the invention uses configurable logic for both data storage and comparison. A CAM in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes a number of programmable look-up tables on a programmable logic device collectively configured to produce a "match" signal in response to data provided on a series of data input terminals. Configuration data determines the particular pattern to which the CAM responds, so new CAM entries are introduced by configuring (or reconfiguring) one or more of the look-up tables. A processor connected to the PLD responds to new CAM entries by executing instructions that first translate the new CAM entries into configuration data and then employ the configuration data to reprogram the PLD.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.