Compilable address magnitude comparator for memory array self-testing
US7073112B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 8, 2003 |
| Grant date | Jul 4, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 13, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG11C2029/1802
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus that improves Built-In-Self-Test (BIST) flexibility. A compilable address magnitude comparator facilitates BIST testing of different size memory arrays without requiring customization of the BIST controller. The compilable address magnitude comparator is compiled within the compilable memory arrays of the ASIC to allow a single BIST controller to test multiple sizes of memory arrays without requiring that the BIST controller be compilable. The compilable magnitude address comparator overrides the self-test signal from the BIST when the BIST attempts to test addresses not existing in the memory. The BIST is prevented from writing to addresses that do not exist, and does not receive error signals from those addresses. The BIST controller is able to test memory arrays without regard for their particular size. A single BIST controller can be used to test multiple memory arrays of different sizes in the ASIC, reducing device complexity.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.