U.S. patent application number 15/978594 was filed with the patent office on 2019-11-14 for frequency-adjusting circuit, electronic memory, and method for determining a refresh frequency for a plurality of dram chips.
The applicant listed for this patent is NANYA TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION. Invention is credited to CHUAN-JEN CHANG, WEN-MING LEE.
Application Number | 20190348108 15/978594 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 64744527 |
Filed Date | 2019-11-14 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190348108 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CHANG; CHUAN-JEN ; et
al. |
November 14, 2019 |
FREQUENCY-ADJUSTING CIRCUIT, ELECTRONIC MEMORY, AND METHOD FOR
DETERMINING A REFRESH FREQUENCY FOR A PLURALITY OF DRAM CHIPS
Abstract
The present disclosure provides a frequency-adjusting circuit
comprising a temperature-sensing module, a computing module and a
storage module. The temperature-sensing module is configured to
measure temperatures of a plurality of DRAM chips. The storage
module is coupled between the temperature-sensing module and the
computing module, and is configured to store the temperatures of
the plurality of DRAM chips. The computing module is coupled to the
temperature-sensing module and is configured to compare the
temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips measured by the
temperature-sensing module to determine a first temperature, to
compare previous temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips read
from the storage module to determine a second temperature, and to
compare the first temperature with the second temperature to
determine a refresh frequency for the plurality of DRAM chips.
Inventors: |
CHANG; CHUAN-JEN; (BAOSHAN
TOWNSHIP, TW) ; LEE; WEN-MING; (TOUFEN CITY,
TW) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NANYA TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION |
NEW TAIPEI CITY |
|
TW |
|
|
Family ID: |
64744527 |
Appl. No.: |
15/978594 |
Filed: |
May 14, 2018 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G11C 5/04 20130101; G06F
13/1636 20130101; G11C 11/40626 20130101; G11C 11/40611
20130101 |
International
Class: |
G11C 11/406 20060101
G11C011/406 |
Claims
1. A frequency-adjusting circuit, comprising: a temperature-sensing
module configured to measure temperatures of a plurality of DRAM
chips; and a computing module coupled to the temperature-sensing
module and configured to determine a refresh frequency for the
plurality of DRAM chips; wherein the computing module is configured
to compare the temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips measured
by the temperature-sensing module to determine a first temperature,
to compare previous temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips to
determine a second temperature, to compare the first temperature
and the second temperature to obtain a first temperature
difference, and to determine the refresh frequency based on a
comparison between the first temperature difference and a first
preset temperature difference.
2. The frequency-adjusting circuit of claim 1, wherein the
computing module includes a first comparing unit coupled to the
temperature-sensing module and configured to compare the
temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips to obtain the first
temperature, which is a highest temperature of the temperatures of
the plurality of DRAM chips.
3. The frequency-adjusting circuit of claim 2, wherein the
computing module further includes a second comparing unit
configured to compare the previous temperatures of the plurality of
DRAM chips to obtain the second temperature, which is a highest
temperature of the previous temperatures of the plurality of DRAM
chips.
4. The frequency-adjusting circuit of claim 3, wherein the
computing module further includes: a first computing unit coupled
to the first comparing unit and the second comparing unit, and
configured to obtain the first temperature difference based on the
first temperature and the second temperature; a third comparing
unit coupled to the first computing unit, and configured to compare
the first temperature difference with the first preset temperature
difference; and a selection unit coupled to the first comparing
unit, the second comparing unit and the third comparing unit, and
configured to obtain a third temperature based on results of a
comparison between the first temperature difference and the first
preset temperature difference.
5. The frequency-adjusting circuit of claim 4, wherein the
computing module further includes a second computing unit coupled
to the selection unit, and configured to compare the third
temperature with a preset temperature set to determine the refresh
frequency.
6. The frequency-adjusting circuit of claim 5, wherein: the preset
temperature set includes at least one preset temperature defining a
first temperature range and a second temperature range; and the
second computing unit is configured to output a first preset
frequency if the third temperature falls within the first
temperature range, and the second computing unit is configured to
output a second preset frequency if the third temperature falls
within the second temperature range.
7. The frequency-adjusting circuit of claim 6, wherein: the preset
temperature set further includes a second preset temperature
difference, and a second temperature difference is defined as a
difference between the third temperature and the at least one
preset temperature; and when the third temperature is increasing
and falls within the second temperature range, the second computing
unit is configured to output the first preset frequency if the
second temperature difference is less than the second preset
temperature difference, and the second computing unit is configured
to output the second preset frequency if the second temperature
difference is equal to or greater than the second preset
temperature difference.
8. The frequency-adjusting circuit of claim 6, wherein: the preset
temperature set further includes a second preset temperature
difference, and a second temperature difference is defined as a
difference between the third temperature and the at least one
preset temperature; and when the third temperature is decreasing
and falls within the first temperature range, the second computing
unit is configured to output the second preset frequency if the
second temperature difference is less than the second preset
temperature difference, and the second computing unit is configured
to output the first preset frequency if the second temperature
difference is equal to or greater than the second preset
temperature difference.
9. An electronic memory, comprising: a plurality of DRAM chips; and
a frequency-adjusting circuit coupled to the plurality of DRAM
chips, and configured to measure temperatures of the plurality of
DRAM chips to determine a refresh frequency for the plurality of
DRAM chips, wherein the frequency-adjusting circuit includes: a
temperature-sensing module configured to measure temperatures of
the plurality of DRAM chips, and a computing module coupled between
the temperature-sensing module and the plurality of DRAM chips, and
configured to determine the refresh frequency for the plurality of
DRAM chips; and wherein the computing module is configured to
compare the temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips measured by
the temperature-sensing module to determine a first temperature, to
compare previous temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips to
determine a second temperature, to compare the first temperature
and the second temperature to obtain a first temperature
difference, and to determine the refresh frequency based on a
comparison between the first temperature difference and a first
preset temperature difference.
10. The electronic memory of claim 9, wherein the computing module
includes a first comparing unit coupled to the temperature-sensing
module and configured to compare the temperatures of the plurality
of DRAM chips to obtain the first temperature, which is a highest
of the temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips.
11. The electronic memory of claim 10, wherein the computing module
further includes a second comparing unit configured to compare the
previous temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips to obtain the
second temperature, which is a highest of the previous temperatures
of the plurality of DRAM chips.
12. The electronic memory of claim 11, wherein the computing module
further includes: a first computing unit coupled to the first
comparing unit and the second comparing unit, and configured to
obtain the first temperature difference based on the first
temperature and the second temperature; a third comparing unit
coupled to the first computing unit, and configured to compare the
first temperature difference with the first preset temperature
difference; and a selection unit coupled to the first comparing
unit, the second comparing unit and the third comparing unit, and
configured to obtain a third temperature based on results of a
comparison between the first temperature difference and the first
preset temperature difference.
13. The electronic memory of claim 12, wherein the computing module
further includes a second computing unit coupled to the selection
unit, and configured to compare the third temperature with a preset
temperature set to determine the refresh frequency.
14. The electronic memory of claim 13, wherein: the preset
temperature set includes at least one preset temperature defining a
first temperature range and a second temperature range; and the
second computing unit is configured to output a first preset
frequency if the third temperature falls within the first
temperature range, and the second computing unit is configured to
output a second preset frequency if the third temperature falls
within the second temperature range.
15. The electronic memory of claim 14, wherein: the preset
temperature set further includes a second preset temperature
difference, and a second temperature difference is defined as a
difference between the third temperature and the at least one
preset temperature; and when the third temperature is increasing
and falls within the second temperature range, the second computing
unit is configured to output the first preset frequency if the
second temperature difference is less than the second preset
temperature difference, and the second computing unit is configured
to output the second preset frequency if the second temperature
difference is equal to or greater than the second preset
temperature difference.
16. The electronic memory of claim 14, wherein: the preset
temperature set further includes a second preset temperature
difference, and a second temperature difference is defined as a
difference between the third temperature and the at least one
preset temperature; and when the third temperature is decreasing
and falls within the first temperature range, the second computing
unit is configured to output the second preset frequency if the
second temperature difference is less than the second preset
temperature difference, and the second computing unit is configured
to output the first preset frequency if the second temperature
difference is equal to or greater than the second preset
temperature difference.
17. A method for determining a refresh frequency for a plurality of
DRAM chip, comprising: determining a first temperature; determining
a second temperature; comparing the first temperature with the
second temperature to obtain a first temperature difference;
comparing the first temperature difference with a first preset
temperature difference; maintaining the refresh frequency of the
plurality of DRAM of the plurality of DRAM chips when the first
temperature difference is less than the first preset temperature;
and changing the refresh frequency of the DRAM chips when the first
temperature difference is equal to or greater than the first preset
temperature difference.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein: the step of determining the
first temperature includes: measuring temperatures of the plurality
of DRAM chips, comparing the temperatures of the plurality of DRAM
chips, and selecting a highest of the temperature of the plurality
of DRAM chips as the first temperature; and the step of determining
the second temperature includes: reading previous temperatures of
the plurality of DRAM chips, comparing the previous temperatures of
the plurality of DRAM chips, and selecting a highest of the
previous temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips as the second
temperature.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein when the first temperature
difference is less than the first preset temperature difference, a
third temperature obtained by comparing the first temperature
difference with the first preset temperature difference is
determined to be the same as the second temperature, and when the
first temperature difference is equal to or greater than the first
preset temperature difference, the third temperature is determined
to be the same as the first temperature.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: comparing the third
temperature with a preset temperature set; and determining to
change the refresh frequency for the plurality of DRAM chips based
on results of a temperature comparison between the third
temperature and the preset temperature set.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a circuit, a memory, and a
method for determining a refresh frequency, and more particularly,
to a frequency-adjusting circuit, an electronic memory, and a
method for determining a refresh frequency for a plurality of
dynamic random access memory (DRAM) chips.
DISCUSSION OF THE BACKGROUND
[0002] A conventional electronic memory includes eight DRAM chips
and a controller. When the controller reads temperatures of the
DRAM chips to, determine a refresh frequency for the DRAM chips, a
controlling system can shut down due to error because the read
temperatures of the DRAM chips are different from each other.
[0003] A conventional method for solving the system-shutdown
problem is to maintain the temperatures of all the DRAM chips at a
preset temperature.
[0004] However, when the temperatures of the DRAM chips are
maintained at the preset temperature, the refresh frequency for the
DRAM chips is also, fixed. As a result, with any decrease in the
temperatures of the DRAM chips, the fixed refresh frequency would
lead to a power-consumption problem. Therefore, there is a need to
find a solution to the power-consumption problem.
[0005] This Discussion of the Background section is for background
information only. The statements in this Discussion of the
Background are not an admission that the subject matter disclosed
in this section constitutes a prior art to the present disclosure,
and no part of this section may be used as an admission that any
part of this application, including this Discussion of the
Background section, constitutes prior art to the present
disclosure.
SUMMARY
[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a
frequency-adjusting circuit. The frequency-adjusting circuit
comprises a temperature-sensing, module, and, a computing module.
The temperature-sensing module is configured to measure
temperatures of a plurality of DRAM chips. The computing module is
coupled to the temperature-sensing module and is configured to
determine a refresh frequency for the plurality of DRAM chips. In
some embodiments, the computing module is configured to compare the
temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips measured by the
temperature-sensing module to determine a first temperature, to
compare previous temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips to
determine a second temperature, and to determine the refresh
frequency based on the first temperature and the second
temperature.
[0007] In some embodiments, the computing module includes a first
comparing unit coupled to the temperature-sensing module and
configured to compare the temperatures of the plurality of DRAM
chips to obtain the first temperature, which is a highest of the
temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips.
[0008] In some embodiments, the computing module further includes a
second comparing unit configured to compare the previous
temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips to obtain the second
temperature, which is a highest of the previous temperatures of the
plurality of DRAM chips.
[0009] In some embodiments, the computing module further includes a
first computing unit, a third comparing unit and a selection unit.
In some embodiments, the first computing unit is coupled to the
first comparing unit and the second comparing unit, and is
configured to obtain a first temperature difference based on the
first temperature and the second temperature. In some embodiments,
the third comparing unit is coupled to the first computing unit,
and is configured to compare the first temperature difference with
a first preset temperature difference. In some embodiments, the
selection unit is coupled to the first comparing unit, the second
comparing unit and the third comparing unit, and is configured to
obtain a third temperature based on results of a comparison between
the first temperature difference and the first preset temperature
difference.
[0010] In some embodiments, the computing module further includes a
second computing unit coupled to the selection unit and to a second
storage unit, wherein the second computing unit is configured to
compare the third temperature with a preset temperature set to
determine the refresh frequency.
[0011] In some embodiments, the preset temperature set includes at
least one preset temperature defining a first temperature range and
a second temperature range. In some embodiments, the second
computing unit, is configured to output a first preset frequency if
the third temperature falls within the first temperature range, or
a second preset frequency if the third temperature falls within the
second temperature range.
[0012] In some embodiments, the preset temperature set further
includes a second preset temperature difference, and a second
temperature difference is defined as a difference between the third
temperature and the at least one preset temperature. In some
embodiments, when the third temperature is increasing and falls
within the second temperature range, the second computing unit is
configured to output the first preset frequency if the second
temperature difference is less than the second preset temperature
difference, and configured to output the second preset frequency if
the second temperature difference is equal to or greater than the
second preset temperature difference.
[0013] In some embodiments, the preset temperature set further
includes a second preset temperature difference, and a second
temperature difference is defined as a difference between the third
temperature and the at least one preset temperature. In some
embodiments, when the third temperature is decreasing and falls
within the first temperature range, the second computing unit is
configured to output the second preset frequency if the second
temperature difference is less than the second preset temperature
difference, and configured to output the first preset frequency if
the second temperature difference is equal to or greater than the
second preset temperature difference.
[0014] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides an
electronic memory. The electronic memory comprises a plurality of
DRAM chips, and a frequency-adjusting circuit coupled to the
plurality of DRAM chips and, configured to measure temperatures of
the, plurality of DRAM chips to determine a refresh frequency for
the plurality of DRAM chips. In some embodiments, the
frequency-adjusting circuit includes a temperature-sensing module
and a computing module. In some embodiments, the
temperature-sensing module is configured to measure temperatures of
the plurality of DRAM chips. In some embodiments, the computing
module is coupled between the temperature-sensing module and the
plurality of DRAM chips, and is configured to determine the refresh
frequency for the plurality of DRAM chips. In some embodiments, the
computing module is configured to compare the temperatures of the
plurality of DRAM chips measured by the temperature-sensing module
to determine a first temperature, to compare previous temperatures
of the plurality of DRAM chips to determine a second temperature,
and to determine the refresh frequency based on the first
temperature and the second temperature.
[0015] In some embodiments, the computing module includes a first
comparing unit, coupled to the temperature-sensing module and
configured to compare the temperatures of the plurality of DRAM
chips to obtain the first temperature, which is a highest of the
temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips.
[0016] In some embodiments, the computing module further includes a
second comparing unit configured to compare the previous
temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips to obtain the second
temperature, which is a highest of the previous temperatures of the
plurality of DRAM chips.
[0017] In some embodiments, the computing module further includes a
first computing unit, a third comparing unit and a selection unit.
In some embodiments, the first computing unit is coupled to the
first comparing unit and the second comparing unit, and is
configured to obtain a first temperature difference based on the
first temperature and the second temperature. In some embodiments,
the third comparing unit is coupled to the first computing unit,
and is configured to compare the first temperature difference with
a first preset temperature difference. In some embodiments, the
selection unit is coupled to the first comparing unit, the second
comparing unit and the third comparing unit, and is configured to
obtain a third temperature based on results of a comparison between
the first temperature difference and the first preset temperature
difference.
[0018] In some embodiments, the computing module further includes a
second computing unit coupled to the selection unit, wherein the
second computing unit is configured to compare the third
temperature with a preset temperature set to determine the refresh
frequency.
[0019] In some embodiments, the preset temperature set includes at
least one preset temperature defining a first temperature range and
a second temperature range. In some embodiments, the second
computing unit is configured to output a first preset frequency if
the third temperature falls within the first temperature range, and
to output a second preset frequency if the third temperature falls
within the second temperature range.
[0020] In some embodiments, the preset temperature set further
includes a second preset temperature difference, and a second
temperature difference is defined as a difference between the third
temperature and the at least one preset temperature. In some
embodiments, when the third temperature is increasing and falls
within the second temperature range, the second computing unit is
configured to output the first preset frequency if the second
temperature difference is less than the second preset temperature
difference, and to output the second preset frequency if the second
temperature difference is equal to or greater than the second
preset temperature difference.
[0021] In some embodiments, the preset temperature set further
includes a second preset temperature difference, and a second
temperature difference is defined as a difference between the third
temperature and the at least one preset temperature. In some
embodiments, when the third temperature is decreasing and falls
within the first temperature range, the second computing unit is
configured to output the second preset frequency if the second
temperature difference is less than the second preset temperature
difference, and to output the first preset frequency if the second
temperature difference is equal to or greater than the second
preset temperature difference.
[0022] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method
for determining a refresh frequency for a plurality of DRAM chips.
The method comprises the following steps. First, a first
temperature is determined. Next, a second temperature is
determined. Subsequently, the first temperature is compared with
the second temperature to obtain a first temperature difference.
Next the first temperature difference is compared with a first
preset temperature difference to obtain a third temperature.
Finally, the refresh frequency for the plurality of DRAM chips is
determined based on the third temperature.
[0023] In some embodiments, the step of determining the first
temperature includes the following sub-steps. First, temperatures
of the plurality of DRAM chips are measured. Next, the temperatures
of the plurality of DRAM, chips are compared. Finally, a highest of
the temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips is selected as the
first temperature. In some embodiments, the step of determining the
second temperature includes the following sub-steps. First,
previous temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips are read.
Next, the previous temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips are
compared. Finally, a highest of the previous temperatures of the
plurality of DRAM chips is selected as the second temperature.
[0024] In some embodiments, when the first temperature difference
is less than the first preset temperature difference, the third
temperature is determined to be the same as the second temperature,
and when the first temperature difference is equal to or greater
than the first preset temperature difference, the third temperature
is determined to be the same as the first temperature,
[0025] In some embodiments, the step of determining the refresh
frequency for the plurality of DRAM chips based on the third
temperature includes the following sub-steps. The third temperature
is compared with a preset temperature set. The refresh frequency
for the plurality of DRAM chips is then determined based on results
of a temperature comparison between the third temperature and the
preset temperature set.
[0026] With the above-mentioned configurations of the
frequency-adjusting circuit, a representative temperature of the
plurality of DRAM chips can be determined in order to solve the
system-shutdown problem without incurring a power-consumption
problem, and a refresh frequency for the plurality of DRAM chips
can be determined based on the representative temperature of the
plurality of DRAM chips. Consequently, the disadvantages of a
conventional electronic memory can be alleviated.
[0027] The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and
technical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the
detailed description of the disclosure that follows may be better
understood. Additional features and technical advantages of the
disclosure are described hereinafter, and form the subject of the
claims of the disclosure. It should be appreciated by those skilled
in the art that the concepts and specific embodiments disclosed
maybe utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other
structures, or processes, for carrying out the purposes of the
present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in
the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the
spirit or scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028] A more complete understanding of the present disclosure may
be derived by referring to the detailed description and claims. The
disclosure should also be understood to be coupled to the figures
reference numbers, which refer to similar elements throughout the
description.
[0029] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an electronic memory in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a DRAM chip in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a frequency-adjusting circuit
in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a computing module of the
frequency-adjusting circuit in accordance with some embodiments of
the present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a second computing unit of the
computing module of the frequency-adjusting circuit in accordance
with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of another computing module of the
frequency-adjusting circuit in accordance with some embodiments of
the present disclosure.
[0035] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of another second computing unit
of another computing module of the frequency-adjusting circuit in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating a method for determining
a refresh frequency for a plurality of DRAM chips in accordance
with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0037] FIG. 9 is a schematic plot showing the relationship between
a representative temperature of the plurality of DRAM chips and the
refresh frequency for the plurality of DRAM chips in accordance
with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0038] FIG. 10 is another schematic plot showing the relationship
between the representative temperature of the plurality of DRAM
chips and the refresh frequency for the plurality of DRAM chips in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0039] FIG. 11 is another schematic plot showing the relationship
between the representative temperature of the plurality of DRAM
chips and the refresh frequency for the plurality of DRAM chips in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] Embodiments, or examples, of the disclosure illustrated in
the drawings are now described using specific language. It shall be
understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is
hereby intended. Any alteration or modification of the described
embodiments, and any further applications of principles described
in this document, are to be considered as normally occurring to one
of ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosure relates.
Reference numerals may be repeated throughout the embodiments, but
this does not necessarily mean that feature(s) of one embodiment
apply to another embodiment, even if they share the same reference
numeral.
[0041] It shall be understood that, although the terms first,
second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various
elements, components, regions layers or sections, these elements,
components, regions, layers or sections are not limited by these
terms. Rather, these terms are merely used to distinguish one
element, component, region, layer or section from another region,
layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer
or section discussed below could be termed a second element,
component, region, layer or section without departing from the
teachings of the present inventive concept.
[0042] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be
limited to the present inventive concept. As used herein, the
singular forms "a," "an" and "the" are intended to include the
plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates
otherwise. It shall be further understood that the terms
"comprises" and "comprising," when used in this specification,
point out the presence of stated features, integers, steps,
operations, elements, or components, but do not preclude the
presence or addition of one or more other features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, components, or groups thereof.
[0043] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an electronic memory 100 in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the electronic memory 100
includes a plurality of DRAM chips 9. In some embodiments, the
electronic memory 100 includes eight DRAM chips 9, while, in some
other embodiments, the quantity of the plurality of DRAM chips 9
included in the electronic memory 100 may be varied.
[0044] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a DRAM chip 9 of the
electronic memory 100 in accordance with some embodiments of the
present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, each
of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 includes a memory array 91; a row
decoder 92 coupled to the memory array 91; an address buffer 93
coupled to the row decoder 92; a plurality of sensing amplifiers 94
coupled to the memory array 91; an buffer 95 coupled to the sensing
amplifiers 94 a column decoder 96 coupled to the sensing amplifiers
94; a command decoder 97 coupled to the address buffer 93, the
column decoder 96, the sensing amplifiers 94 and the I/O buffer 95;
a plurality of word lines 98 extending through the memory array 91;
and a plurality of bit lines 99 extending through the memory array
91 and intersecting the plurality of word lines 98.
[0045] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a frequency-adjusting circuit
10 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
In some embodiments, the frequency-adjusting circuit 10 is coupled
to the command decoders 97 of the plurality of DRAM chips 9.
Referring to FIG. 3, the frequency-adjusting circuit 10 comprises a
temperature-sensing module 11, a computing module 12 and a storage
module 13. In some embodiments, the temperature-sensing module 11
is configured to measure temperatures of the plurality of DRAM
chips 9. In some embodiments, the computing module 12 is coupled
between the temperature-sensing module 11 and the plurality of
DRAM, chips 9, and is configured to determine a refresh frequency
(F) for the plurality of DRAM chips 9. In some embodiments, the
storage module 13 is coupled between the temperature-sensing module
11 and the computing module 12, and is configured to store the
temperatures of is the plurality of DRAM chips 9.
[0046] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the computing module 12 of the
frequency-adjusting circuit 10 in accordance with some embodiments
of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 4, in some
embodiments, the computing module 12 includes a first comparing
unit 121, a second comparing unit 122, a third comparing unit 124,
a first, computing unit 123, a second computing unit 127 and a
selection unit 126.
[0047] In some embodiments, the first comparing unit 121 is coupled
to the temperature-sensing module 11 and is configured to compare
the temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 to obtain a first
temperature (T1), which is a highest of the temperatures of the
plurality of DRAM chips 9.
[0048] In some embodiments, the second comparing unit 122 is
coupled to the storage module 13 and is configured to compare
previous temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 to obtain a
second temperature (T2), which is a highest of the previous
temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips 9, wherein the previous
temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 are stored in the
storage module 13.
[0049] In some embodiments, the first computing unit 123 is coupled
to the first comparing unit 121 and the second comparing unit 122,
and is configured to compute the first temperature (T1) and the
second temperature (T2) to obtain a first temperature difference
(Td1).
[0050] In some embodiments, the third comparing unit 124 is coupled
to the first computing unit 123 and a first storage unit 125, and
is configured to compare the first temperature difference (Td1)
with a first preset temperature difference (Tpd1), where the first
preset is temperature difference (Tpd1) is a given numerical
value.
[0051] In some embodiments, the selection unit 126 is a multiplexer
coupled to the first comparing unit 121, the second comparing unit
122 and the third comparing unit 124, and is configured to obtain a
third temperature (T3) based on results of a comparison between the
first temperature difference (Td1) and the first preset temperature
difference (Tpd1). In some embodiments, the third temperature (T3)
is defined as a representative temperature of the DRAM chips 9.
[0052] In some embodiments, if the first temperature difference
(Td1) is less than the first preset temperature difference (Tpd1),
the selection unit 126 selects the second temperature (T2) as the
third temperature (T3), and the refresh frequency (F) remains
unchanged; alternatively, if the first temperature difference (Td1)
is equal to or greater than the first preset temperature difference
(Tpd1), the selection unit 126 selects the first temperature (T1)
as the third temperature (T3), and the refresh frequency (F) is
changed. In some embodiments, this design can prevent the
electronic memory 100 from frequently changing the refresh
frequency (F) of the plurality of DRAM chips 9, thereby mitigating
the issue of the electronic memory 100 shutting down when
frequently updating the third temperature (T3).
[0053] In some embodiments, the second computing unit 127 is
coupled to the selection unit 126 and the plurality of DRAM chips
9, and is configured to determine the refresh frequency (F) based
on the third temperature (T3). In some embodiments, the second
computing unit 127 compares the third temperature (T3) with a
preset temperature set (Tps) to determine the refresh frequency
(F), wherein the preset temperature set (Tps) includes a first
preset temperature (Ta), a second preset temperature (Tb) and a
third preset temperature (Tc), in some other embodiments, the
quantity of preset temperatures included in the preset temperature
set (Tps) may be varied.
[0054] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the second computing unit 127
of the computing module 12 of the frequency-adjusting circuit 10 in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 5, in some embodiments, the second computing unit
127 includes a first comparing block 1271 and a processing block
1272. The first comparing block 1271 is coupled to the selection
unit 126 and the second storage unit 128, and is configured to
compare the third temperature (T3) with the first preset
temperature (Ta), the second preset temperature (Tb) and the third
preset temperature (Tc). The processing block 1272 is coupled to
the first comparing block 1271 and the plurality of DRAM chips 9,
and is configured to determine the refresh frequency (F) for the
plurality of DRAM chips 9 based on a comparison information from
the first comparing block 1271.
[0055] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of another computing module 12' of
the frequency-adjusting circuit 10 in accordance with some
embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 6, in some
embodiments, the computing module 12' is substantially similar to
the computing module 12 except for the details of the, second
computing unit 127'.
[0056] In some embodiments, the second computing unit 127' is
coupled to the selection unit 126 and the plurality of DRAM chips
9, and is configured to determine the refresh frequency (F) based
on the third temperature (T3). In some embodiments, the second
computing unit 127' compares the third temperature (T3) with the
preset temperature set (Tps) to determine the refresh frequency
(F), wherein the preset temperature set (Tps) further includes a
second preset temperature difference (Tpd2) and a third preset
temperature difference (Tpd3). In some other embodiments, the
quantity of preset temperatures included in the preset temperature
set (Tps) may be varied.
[0057] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the second computing unit 127
of the computing module 12' of the frequency-adjusting circuit 10
in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 7, in some embodiments, the second computing unit
127' includes a first comparing block 1271', a selection block
1272', a first computing block 1273', a second comparing block
1274' and a processing block 1275'.
[0058] In some embodiments, the first comparing block 1271' is
coupled to the selection unit 126 and the second storage unit 128,
wherein the first comparing block 1271' is configured to compare
the third temperature (T3) with the first preset temperature (Ta),
the second preset temperature (Tb) and the third preset temperature
(Tc).
[0059] In some embodiments, the selection block 1272' is coupled to
the first comparing block 1271' and the second storage unit 128,
wherein the selection block 1272' is configured to output one of
the second preset temperature difference (Tpd2) and the third
preset temperature difference (Tpd3) based on a comparison
information from the first comparing block 1271'.
[0060] In some embodiments, the first computing block 1273' is
coupled to the selection unit 126, the second storage unit 128 and
the first comparing block 1271', wherein the first computing block
1273' is configured to generate one of a second temperature
difference (Td2) and a third temperature difference (Td3) from the
third temperature (T3), the first preset temperature (Ta) and the
second preset temperature (Tb) based on the comparison information
from the first comparing block 1271'. In some embodiments, the
second temperature difference (Td2) is defined as the difference
between the third temperature (T3) and the first preset temperature
(Ta), and the third temperature difference (Td3) is defined as the
difference between the third temperature (T3) and the second preset
temperature (Tb).
[0061] In some embodiments, when the representative temperature of
the DRAM chips 9 is increasing and between the first preset
temperature (Ta) and the second preset temperature (Tb), the first
computing block 1273' generates the second temperature difference
(Tp2) and the selection block 1272' outputs the second, preset
temperature difference (Tpd2).
[0062] In some embodiments, when the representative temperature of
the DRAM chips 9 is increasing and between the second preset
temperature (Tb) and the third preset temperature (Tc), the first
computing block 1273' generates the third temperature difference
(Tp3) and the selection block 1272' outputs the third preset
temperature difference (Tpd3).
[0063] In some embodiments, when the representative temperature of
the DRAM chips 9 is decreasing and less than the first preset
temperature (Ta), the first computing block 1273' generates the
second temperature difference (Tp2) and the selection block 1272'
outputs the second preset temperature difference (Tpd2).
[0064] In some embodiments, when the representative temperature of
the DRAM chips 9 is decreasing and between the first preset
temperature (Ta) and the second preset temperature (Tb), the first
computing block 1273' generates the third temperature difference
(Tp3) and the selection block 1272' outputs the third preset
temperature difference (Tpd3).
[0065] In some embodiments, the second comparing block 1274' is
coupled to the first computing block 1273' and the selection block
1272', wherein the second comparing block 1274' is configured to
compare one of the second temperature difference (Td2) and the
third temperature difference (Td3) with a corresponding one of the
second preset temperature difference (Tpd2) and the third preset
temperature difference (Tpd3).
[0066] In some embodiments, the processing block 1275' is coupled
to the first comparing block 1271', the second comparing block
1274' and the plurality of DRAM chips 9, wherein the processing
block 1275' is configured to determine the refresh frequency (F)
for the plurality of DRAM chips 9 based on a comparison information
from the first comparing block 1271' and the second comparing block
1274'.
[0067] In some embodiments, the first preset temperature (Ta), the
second preset temperature (Tb), the third preset temperature (Tc),
the second preset temperature difference (Tpd2) and the third
preset temperature difference (Tpd3) are given numerical
values.
[0068] FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating a method 2 for
determining w the refresh frequency (F) for the plurality of DRAM
chips 9 in, accordance with some embodiments of the present
disclosure. Referring to FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5 and FIG, 8, in some
embodiments, the method 2 includes a step 21, in which the first
temperature (T1) is determined; a step 22, in, which the second
temperature (T2) is determined; a step 23, in which the first
temperature (T1) is compared with the second temperature (T2) to
obtain the first temperature difference (Td1); a step 24, in which
the first temperature difference (Td1) is compared with the first
preset temperature difference (Tpd1) to obtain the third
temperature (T3); and a step 25, in which the refresh frequency (F)
is determined for the DRAM chips 9 based on the third temperature
(T3).
[0069] In some embodiments, the step of determining the first
temperature (T1) comprises the following sub-steps. First, the
temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 are measured. Next,
the temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 are sent to the
computing module 12. Next, the temperatures of the plurality of
DRAM chips 9 are simultaneously stored in the storage module 13.
Next, the temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 are
compared with each other. Finally, the highest of the temperatures
of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 is selected as the first
temperature (T1).
[0070] In some embodiments, the step of determining the second
temperature (T2) comprises the following sub-steps. First, the
previous temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 are read
from the storage module 13. Next, the previous temperatures of the
plurality of DRAM chips 9 are compared with each other. Finally,
the highest of the previous temperatures of the plurality of DRAM
chips 9 is selected as the second temperature (T2).
[0071] In some embodiments, the step of determining the refresh
frequency (F) for the plurality of DRAM chips 9 comprises the
following sub-steps. First, the third temperature (T3) is compared
with the preset temperature set (Tps). Next, the refresh frequency
(F) for the plurality of DRAM chips 9 is determined based on
results of a temperature comparison between the third temperature
(T3) and the preset temperature set (Tps).
[0072] Referring to FIG. 6, FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, in some embodiments,
the sub-step of determining the refresh frequency (F) for the
plurality of DRAM chips 9 based on the results of the temperature
comparison between the third temperature (T3) and the preset
temperature set (Tps) comprises the following sub-steps. First, the
preset temperature range within which the third temperature (T3)
falls is confirmed. Next, the second temperature difference (Td2)
is compared with the second preset temperature difference (Tpd2).
Finally, a corresponding frequency is selected as the refresh
frequency (F).
[0073] In some embodiments, during a refresh frequency-determining
process, the third temperature (T3) is first compared with the
first, second and third preset temperatures (Ta, Tb, Tc) to confirm
which preset temperature range the third temperature falls within.
Next, the corresponding frequency is selected as the refresh
frequency (F). Subsequently, a refresh frequency information is
output to the plurality of DRAM chips 9.
[0074] In some embodiments, during the process of determining the
refresh frequency, after the preset temperature range within which
the third temperature falls is confirmed, one of the second
temperature difference (Td2) and the third temperature difference
(Td3) is obtained. Subsequently, the one of the second temperature
difference (Td2) and the third temperature difference (Td3) is
compared with the corresponding one of the second preset
temperature difference (Tpd2) and the third preset temperature
difference (Tpd3). Finally, the corresponding frequency is selected
as the refresh frequency (F). In some embodiments, after the
refresh frequency (F) is determined, a refresh frequency
information is output to the plurality of DRAM chips 9.
[0075] In some embodiments, when the representative temperature of
the DRAM chips 9 is increasing and is between the first preset
temperature (Ta) and the second preset temperature (Tb), the second
temperature difference (Td2) is compared with the second present
temperature difference (Tpd2).
[0076] In some embodiments, when the representative temperature of
the DRAM chips 9 is increasing and is between the second preset
temperature (Tb) and the third preset temperature (Tc), the third
temperature difference (Td3) is compared with the third preset
temperature difference (Tpd3).
[0077] In some embodiments, when the representative temperature of
the DRAM chips 9 is decreasing and is less than the first preset
temperature (Ta), the second temperature difference (Td2) is
compared with the second present temperature difference (Tpd2).
[0078] In some embodiments, when the representative temperature of
the DRAM chips 9 is decreasing and is between the first preset
temperature (Ta) and the second preset temperature (Tb), the third
temperature difference (Td3) is compared with, the third present
temperature difference (Tpd3).
[0079] FIG. 9 is a schematic plot showing the relationship between
the representative temperature and the refresh frequency (F) for
the plurality of DRAM chips 9 in accordance with some embodiments
of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the preset
temperature set includes at least one preset temperature defining a
first temperature range and a second temperature range; for
example, the first preset temperature (Ta) defines a first
temperature range (RT1) and a second temperature range (RT2).
Referring to FIG. 9, in some embodiments, the preset temperature
set (Tps) defines a plurality of preset temperature ranges. In some
embodiments, the first preset temperature (Ta) and zero degrees
Celsius define a first temperature range (RT1), the first and
second preset temperatures (Ta, Tb) define a second temperature
range (RT2), and the second and third preset temperatures (Tb, Tc)
define a third temperature range (RT3).
[0080] Referring to FIG. 9, in some embodiments, the refresh
frequency (F) for the, plurality of DRAM chips 9 is determined to
be a first preset frequency (Fa) if the third temperature (T3)
falls within the first temperature range (RT1), a second preset
frequency (Fb) if the third temperature (T3) fails within the
second temperature range (RT2), or a third preset frequency (Fc) if
the third temperature (T3) falls within the third temperature range
(RT3). In some, embodiments, the first preset frequency (Fa) is
less than the second preset frequency (Fb), and the second preset
frequency (Fb) is less than the third preset frequency (Fc).
[0081] FIG. 10 is a schematic plot showing the relationship between
the representative temperature of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 and
the refresh frequency (F) for the plurality of DRAM chips 9 in
accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
Referring to FIG. 10, in some embodiments, when the representative
temperature of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 is increasing, and if
the second temperature difference (Td2) is less than the second
preset temperature difference (Tpd2), then the refresh frequency
(F) for the DRAM chips 9 is determined to be the first preset
frequency (Fa), even if the third temperature (T3) falls within the
second temperature range (RT2). In some embodiments, when the
second temperature difference (Td2) is less than the second preset
temperature difference (Tpd2), i.e., when the temperature variation
between the present measurement and the previous measurement is
sufficiently small (less than Tpd2), then it is not necessary to
change the refresh frequency (F); therefore, the refresh frequency
(F) for the plurality of DRAM chips 9 is maintained at the first
preset frequency (Fa) in order to alleviate an operating burden of
the electronic memory 100.
[0082] Referring to FIG. 10, in some embodiments, when the
representative temperature of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 is
increasing, and if the third temperature (T3) falls within the
second temperature range (RT2) and the second temperature
difference (Td2) is equal to or greater than the second preset
temperature difference (Tpd2), then the refresh frequency (F) for
the DRAM chips 9 is determined to be the second preset frequency
(Fb). In some embodiments, when the second temperature difference
(Td2) is equal to or greater than the second preset temperature
difference (Tpd2), i.e., when the temperature variation between the
present measurement and the previous measurement is sufficiently
large (equal to or greater than Tpd2), then it is necessary to
change the refresh frequency (F); therefore, the refresh frequency
(F) for the plurality of DRAM chips 9 needs to be increased to the
second preset frequency (Fb) in order to prevent a data loss.
[0083] Referring to FIG. 10, in some embodiments, when the
representative temperature of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 is
increasing, and if the third temperature difference (Td3) is less
than the third preset temperature difference (Tpd3), then the
refresh frequency (F) for the DRAM chips 9 is determined to be the
second preset frequency (Fb), even if the third temperature (T3)
falls within the third temperature range (RT3). In some
embodiments, when the third temperature difference (Td3) is less
than the third preset temperature difference (Tpd3), i.e., when the
temperature variation between the present measurement and the
previous measurement is sufficiently small (less than Tpd3), then
it is not necessary to change the, refresh frequency (F);
therefore, the refresh frequency (F) for the plurality of DRAM
chips 9 is maintained at the second preset frequency (Fb) order to
alleviate the operating burden of the electronic memory 100.
[0084] Referring to FIG. 10, in some embodiments, when the
representative temperature of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 is
increasing, and if the third temperature (T3) falls within the
third temperature range (RT3) and the third temperature difference
(Td3) is equal to or greater than the third preset temperature
difference (Tpd3), then the refresh frequency (F) for the DRAM
chips 9 is determined to be the third preset frequency (Fc). In
some embodiments, when the third temperature difference (Td3) is
equal to or greater than the third preset temperature difference
(Tpd3), i.e., when the temperature variation between the present
measurement and the previous measurement is sufficiently large
(equal to or greater than Tpd3), then it is necessary to change the
refresh frequency (F); therefore, the refresh frequency (F) for the
plurality of DRAM chips 9 needs to be increased to the third preset
frequency (Fc) in order to prevent data loss.
[0085] FIG. 11 is another schematic plot showing the relationship
between the representative temperature of the plurality of DRAM
chips 9 and the refresh frequency (F) for the plurality of DRAM
chips 9 in accordance with some embodiments of the present
disclosure. Referring to FIG. 11, in some embodiments, when the
representative temperature of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 is
decreasing, and if the third temperature, difference (Td3) is less
than the third preset temperature difference (Tpd3), then the
refresh frequency (F) for the DRAM chips 9 is determined to, be the
third preset frequency (Fc), even if the third temperature (T3)
falls within the second temperature range (RT2). In some
embodiments, when the third temperature difference (Td3) is less
than the third preset temperature difference (Tpd3), i.e., when the
temperature variation between the present measurement and the
previous measurement is sufficiently small (less than Tpd3), then
it is not necessary to change the refresh frequency (F); therefore,
the refresh frequency (F) for the plurality of DRAM chips 9 is
maintained at the third preset frequency (Fc) in order to alleviate
the operating burden of the electronic memory 100.
[0086] Referring to FIG. 11, in some embodiments, when the
representative temperature of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 is
decreasing, and if the third temperature (T3) falls within the
second temperature range (RT2) and the third temperature difference
(Td3) is equal to or greater than the third preset temperature
difference (Tpd3), then the refresh frequency (F) for the DRAM
chips 9 is determined to be the second preset frequency (Fb). In
some embodiments, when the third temperature difference (Td3) is
equal to or greater than the third preset temperature difference
(Tpd3), i.e., when the temperature variation between the present
measurement and the previous measurement is sufficiently large
(equal to or greater than Tpd3), it is necessary to change the
refresh frequency (F); therefore, the refresh frequency (F) for the
plurality of DRAM chips 9 needs to be decreased to the second
preset frequency (Fb) in order to prevent a power-consumption
problem.
[0087] Referring to FIG. 11, in some embodiments, when the
representative temperature of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 is
decreasing, and if the second temperature difference (Td2) is less
than the second preset temperature difference (Tpd2), then the
refresh frequency (F) for the DRAM chips 9 is determined to be the
second preset frequency (Fb), even if the third temperature (T3)
falls within the first temperature range (RT1). In some
embodiments, when the second temperature difference (Td2) is less
than the second preset temperature difference (Tpd2), i.e., when
the temperature variation between the present measurement and the
previous measurement is sufficiently small (less than Tpd2), it is
not necessary to change the refresh frequency (F); therefore, the
refresh frequency (F) for the plurality of DRAM chips 9 is
maintained at the second preset frequency (Fb) in order to
alleviate the operating burden of the electronic memory 100.
[0088] Referring to FIG. 11, in some embodiments, when the
representative temperature of the plurality of DRAM chips 9 is
decreasing, and if the third temperature (T3) falls within the
first temperature range (RT1) and the second temperature difference
(Td2) is equal to or greater than the second preset temperature
difference (Tpd2), then the refresh frequency (F) for the DRAM
chips 9 is determined to be the first preset frequency (Fa). In
some embodiments, when the second temperature difference (Td2) is
equal to or greater than the second preset temperature difference
(Tpd2), i.e., when the temperature variation between the present
measurement and the previous measurement is sufficiently large
(equal to or greater than Tpd2), then it is necessary to change the
refresh frequency (F); therefore, the refresh frequency (F) for the
plurality of DRAM chips 9 needs to be decreased to the first preset
frequency (Fa) in order to prevent the power-consumption
problem.
[0089] In some embodiments, because the third temperature (T3) is
the highest of the temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips 9,
when the representative temperature is decreasing and when the
third temperature difference (Td3) between the third temperature
(T3) and the second preset temperature (Tb) is equal to or greater
than the third preset temperature difference (Tpd3), then the third
temperature difference (Td3) between each of the temperatures of
the plurality of DRAM chips 9 and the second preset temperature
(Tb) is determined to be equal to or greater than the third preset
temperature difference (Tpd3).
[0090] Similarly, in some embodiments, when the representative
temperature is decreasing and when the second temperature
difference (Td2) between the third temperature (T3) and the first
preset temperature (Ta) is equal, to or greater than the second
preset temperature difference (Tpd2), then the second temperature
difference (Td2) between each of the temperatures of the plurality
of DRAM chips 9 and the first preset temperature (Ta) is determined
to be equal to or greater than the second preset temperature
difference (Tpd2).
[0091] Similarly, in some embodiments, when the representative
temperature is increasing and when the second temperature
difference (Td2) between the third temperature (T3) and the first
preset temperature (Ta) is equal to or greater than, the second
preset temperature difference (Tpd2), then the second temperature
difference (Td2) between each of the temperatures of the plurality
of DRAM chips 9 and the first preset temperature (Ta) is determined
to be equal to or greater than the second preset temperature
difference (Tpd2).
[0092] Similarly, in some embodiments, when the representative
temperature is increasing and when the third temperature difference
(Td3) between the third temperature (T3) and the second preset
temperature (Tb) is equal to or greater than the third preset
temperature difference (Tpd3), then the third temperature
difference (Td3) between each of the temperatures of the, plurality
of DRAM chips 9 and the second preset temperature (Tb) is
determined to be, equal to or greater than the third preset
temperature difference (Tpd3).
[0093] In some embodiments, the second, preset temperature
difference (Tpd2) is the same as the third preset temperature
difference (Tpd3), while, in sonic other embodiments, the second
preset temperature difference (Tpd2) may be different from the
third preset temperature difference (Tpd).
[0094] In some embodiments, the second preset temperature
difference (Tpd2) set when the representative temperature is
increasing is the same as the second preset temperature difference
(Tpd2) set when the representative temperature is decreasing. In
some other embodiments, the second preset temperature difference
(Tpd2) set when the representative temperature is increasing may be
different from the second preset temperature difference (Tpd2) set
when the representative temperature is decreasing.
[0095] In some embodiments, the third preset temperature difference
(Tpd3) set when the representative temperature, is increasing is
the same as the third preset temperature difference (Tpd3) set when
the representative temperature is decreasing. In some other
embodiments, the third preset temperature difference (Tpd3) set
when the representative temperature is increasing may be different
from the third preset temperature difference (Tpd3) set when the
representative temperature is decreasing.
[0096] In some embodiments, the storage module 13, the first
storage unit 125 and the, second storage unit 128 are configured as
registers. In some other embodiments, the configurations of the
storage module 13, the first storage unit 125 and the second
storage unit 128 may be varied.
[0097] In some embodiments, the first storage unit 125 provides the
first preset temperature difference (Tpd1) to the third comparing
unit 124. In some embodiments, the second storage unit 128 provides
the preset temperature set (Tps) to the, second computing unit 127.
In some other embodiments, the arrangements of the first and second
storage units 125 and 128 may be varied.
[0098] In some embodiments, the first preset temperature (Ta) is 45
degrees Celsius, the second preset temperature (Tb) is 85 degrees
Celsius, the third preset temperature (Tc) is 95 degrees Celsius,
and the first, second and third preset temperature differences
(Tpd1, Tpd2, Tpd3) are 5 degrees Celsius. In some other
embodiments, the value of the first preset temperature (Ta), the
second preset temperature (Tb), the third preset temperature (Tc),
the first preset temperature difference (Tpd1), the second preset
temperature difference (Tpd2) and the third preset temperature
difference (Tpd3) may be varied.
[0099] In conclusion, with the configurations of the
frequency-adjusting circuit 10, the representative temperature of
the DRAM chips 9 can be determined without incurring the
system-shutdown problem, and the refresh frequency (F) for the DRAM
chips 9 can be determined based on the representative temperature
of the DRAM chips 9. Consequently, the objective of the disclosure
is achieved.
[0100] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a
frequency-adjusting circuit. The frequency-adjusting circuit
comprises a temperature-sensing module and a computing module. The
temperature-sensing module is configured to measure temperatures of
a plurality of DRAM chips. The computing module is coupled to the
temperature-sensing module and is configured to determine a refresh
frequency for the plurality of DRAM chips. In some embodiments, the
computing module is configured to compare the temperatures of the
plurality of DRAM chips measured by the temperature-sensing module
to determine a first temperature, to compare previous temperatures
of the plurality of DRAM chips to determine a second temperature,
and to determine, the refresh frequency based on the first
temperature and the second temperature.
[0101] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an electronic
memory. The electronic memory comprises a plurality of DRAM chips,
and a frequency-adjusting circuit coupled to the plurality of DRAM
err chips and configured to measure temperatures of the plurality
of DRAM chips to determine a refresh frequency for the plurality of
DRAM chips. In some embodiments, the frequency-adjusting circuit
includes a temperature sensing module and a computing module. In
some embodiments, the temperature-sensing module is configured to
measure temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips. In some
embodiments, the computing module is coupled between the
temperature-sensing module and the plurality of DRAM chips, and is
configured to determine the refresh frequency for the plurality of
DRAM chips. In some embodiments, the computing module is configured
to compare the temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips measured
by the temperature-sensing module to determine a first temperature,
to compare previous temperatures of the plurality of DRAM chips
determine a second temperature, and to determine the refresh
frequency based on the first temperature and the second
temperature.
[0102] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for
determining a refresh frequency for a plurality of DRAM chips. The
method comprises the following steps. First, a first temperature is
determined. Next, a second temperature is determined. Subsequently,
the first temperature is compared with the second temperature to
obtain a first temperature difference. Next, the first temperature
difference is compared with a first preset temperature difference
to obtain a third temperature. Finally, the refresh frequency for
the plurality of DRAM chips is determined based on the third
temperature.
[0103] Although the present disclosure and its advantages have been
described in detail, it should be understood that various changes,
substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing
from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the
appended claims. For example, many of the processes discussed above
can be implemented in different methodologies and replaced by other
processes, or a combination thereof.
[0104] Moreover, the scope of the present application is not
intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the
process, machine, manufacture, and composition of matter, means,
methods and steps described in the specification. As one of
ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the present
disclosure, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of
matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be
developed, that perform substantially the same function or achieve
substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments
described herein may, be utilized according to the present
disclosure. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to
include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture,
compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.
* * * * *