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US6288969B1
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Multi-port random access memory
Assignee: Ciena Luxembourg SARL
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Filing: 1997-07-24
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Granted: 2001-09-11
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Expires: 2017-07-24
Abstract
Abstract Disclosed is an architecture of a RAM (random access memory) with BIST (built-in self test) or functional test function. The RAM has a memory cell for storing differential or single-ended binary data and bit line signals are fully differential or single-ended. Shadow write is applied to read only and read-write bit lines. With the test function, port-to-port bit line shorts and port-to-port word line shorts are sensitized.
Inventors
- 👤 Robert George Gibbins
- 👤 Garnet Frederick Randall Gibson
- 👤 Steven William Wood
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-06 12:28
CPC Classifications
G; G11; G11C; G11C29/00; G11C29/02; G11C29/04; G11C29/50; G11C8/00; G11C8/16
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 12
Claim 1
Independent Claim
117 words
A multi-port RAM (random access memory) comprising: RAM cells of m rows by n columns, each RAM cell including storage means for storing differential binary data, the RAM cells being coupled to respective row and column lines of each port, m and n being integers; data write means for storing differential binary data in the RAM cells selected by signals on the row and column lines of a port; data read means for reading the differential binary data stored in the RAM cells selected by signals on the row and column lines of a port; and voltage driving means for applying a predetermined level voltage onto selected ones of the column lines in a shadow write mode.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
117 words
A multi-port RAM (random access memory) comprising: RAM cells of m rows by n columns, each RAM cell including storage means for storing differential binary data, the RAM cells being coupled to respective row and column lines of each port, m and n being integers; data write means for storing differential binary data in the RAM cells selected by signals on the row and column lines of a port; data read means for reading the differential binary data stored in the RAM cells selected by signals on the row and column lines of a port; and voltage driving means for applying a predetermined level voltage onto selected ones of the column lines in a shadow write mode.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
28 words
The multi-port RAM of claim 1 , further comprising test means for determining whether or not the differential binary data read from the RAM cells is expected data.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
35 words
The multi-port RAM of claim 1 , wherein the voltage driving means comprises means for driving the predetermined level voltage onto all column lines of at least one selected port in the shadow write mode.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
23 words
The multi-port RAM of claim 1 , wherein the storage means for storing differential binary data is a dynamic random access memory element.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
23 words
The multi-port RAM of claim 1 , wherein the storage means for storing differential binary data is a static random access memory element.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
37 words
The multi-port RAM of claim 1 , wherein the voltage driving means comprises selective drive means for driving the predetermined level voltage onto selected column lines of at least one selected port in the shadow write mode.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
83 words
The multi-port RAM of claim 6 , wherein the selective drive means comprises: M sets of N voltage application means for each port, M and N being integers, the voltage application means being coupled with the respective column lines; and activating means for activating at least one selected one of the voltage application means of the respective set in the shadow write mode, so that the activated voltage application means driving the predetermined level voltage onto the column line which is coupled therewith.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
25 words
The multi-port RAM of claim 7 , wherein M is 2 and the activating means alternatively activates one set of the N voltage application means.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
38 words
The multi-port RAM of claim 8 , wherein the voltage application means comprises switching means which causes the respective column line to be the predetermined voltage level, in response to a control signal provided by the activating means.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
51 words
The multi-port RAM of claim 9 , wherein: each of the switching means comprises a FET (field effect transistor), the drain-source of which is coupled between the respective column line and a terminal for the predetermined level voltage; and the control signal is selectively applied to the gates of the FETs.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
24 words
The multi-port RAM of claim 10 , further comprising means for providing the ground level voltage to the terminal for the predetermined level voltage.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2004-09-10 | 2005-03-12 | 2005-09-11 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2008-09-10 | 2009-03-12 | 2009-09-11 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2012-09-10 | 2013-03-12 | 2013-09-11 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |