Name
Abstract | ||
|---|---|---|
Among the different types of dynamic random-access memories (DRAMs), gain-cell embedded DRAM (GC-eDRAM) is a compact, low-power, and CMOS-compatible alternative to conventional static random-access memory (SRAM). GC-eDRAM achieves high memory density, as it relies on a storage cell that can be implemented with as few as two transistors and that can be fabricated without additional process steps. However, since the performance of GC-eDRAMs relies on many interdependent variables, the optimization of the performance of these memories for the integration into their hosting system, as well as the design investigation of future GC-eDRAMs, proves to be highly complex tasks. In this context, modeling tools of memories are key enablers for the exploration of this large design space in a short amount of time. In this article, we present GC-eDRAM modeling tool (GEMTOO), the first modeling tool that estimates timing, memory availability, bandwidth, and area of GC-eDRAMs. The tool considers parameters related to technology, circuits, and memory architecture, and it enables the evaluation of architectural transformations as well as advanced transistor-level effects, such as the increase in the access delay due to the deterioration of the stored data. The timing is estimated with a maximum deviation of 15% from postlayout simulations in a 28-nm FD-SOI technology for different memory sizes and architectures. Moreover, the measured random cycle frequency of a GC-eDRAM fabricated in a 28-nm CMOS bulk process is estimated with a 9% deviation when considering 6-sigma random process variations of the bitcells. The proposed GEMTOO modeling tool is used to show the intricacies in design optimization of GC-eDRAMs, and based on the results, optimal design practices are derived. |
Year | DOI | Venue |
|---|---|---|
2020 | 10.1109/TVLSI.2019.2955933 | IEEE Transactions on Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) Systems |
Keywords | DocType | Volume |
Computer-aided design,embedded dynamic random-access memory (DRAM),gain cell (GC),GC-eDRAM modeling tool (GEMTOO),memory design,memory organization,modeling tool | Journal | 28 |
Issue | ISSN | Citations |
3 | 1063-8210 | 0 |
PageRank | References | Authors |
0.34 | 0 | 5 |
Name | Order | Citations | PageRank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andrea Bonetti | 1 | 14 | 5.89 |
| Roman Golman | 2 | 0 | 2.03 |
| Robert Giterman | 3 | 40 | 9.55 |
| Adam Teman | 4 | 129 | 19.12 |
| A. Burg | 5 | 1426 | 126.54 |