Apparatus for implementing a buffered daisy chain connection between a memory controller and memory modules
US6317352A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 18, 2000 |
| Grant date | Nov 13, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 18, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02D10/00
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A plurality of memory modules interface through a daisy-chain providing a point-to-point connection for each memory module. The first and the last memory module in the daisy chain each connect to a separate memory controller port forming a ring circuit. A distinct set of signals connect the memory modules in each direction. A junction circuit in each memory module provides line isolation, a coupling to the adjoining memory modules in the daisy chain, or in the case of the first and last memory module in the daisy chain, a memory module and a memory controller, and a data synchronization circuit. Each junction circuit provides as well as voltage conversion so that the memory devices on a memory module operate at a different voltage than the memory controller, and multiplexing/de-multiplexing so that a lesser number of lines interface with each junction circuit.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.