With Flip-flop Or Sequential Device Patents (Class 326/40)
  • Patent number: 7009423
    Abstract: A programmable logic device (PLD), such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) has a logic core surrounded on one or more sides by an input/output (I/O) interface having one or more programmable I/O buffers (PIBs). At least one PIB can be programmed to perform two or more of (a) a pass-through data input mode, (b) an input register mode; (c) a double data rate (DDR) input mode, (d) one or more demux input modes, (e) one or more DDR demux input modes. In addition or alternatively, at least one PIB can be programmed to perform two or more of (a) a pass-through data output mode, (b) an output register mode, (c) a DDR output mode, (d) one or more mux output modes, and (e) one or more DDR mux output modes. As such, devices of the present invention are flexible enough to support both low-rate and high-rate interface applications, while efficiently using device resources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Lattice Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventors: William B. Andrews, Fulong Zhang, Harold Scholz
  • Patent number: 7002369
    Abstract: An aspect of the present invention simplifies the implementation of complex clock designs in field programmable devices (FPD). To implement a circuit logic containing base sequential elements (e.g., D flip-flops) with corresponding circuit clocks, a number of modified sequential elements equaling the number of base sequential elements may be employed. Each modified sequential element (contained in FPD) receives a global clock, corresponding circuit clock and a data value. A base sequential element (contained in modified sequential element) transitions to a next state only after occurrence of a transition on a corresponding circuit clock and the transition to said next state may be timed according to the global clock. By timing the transitions according to the global clock, several undesired results may be avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Venkatesh Natarajan, Ameet Suresh Bagwe
  • Patent number: 7003660
    Abstract: An example method of controlling a data processing system having a cellular structure. The method includes transmitting a first configuration word to a first processing unit in the cellular structure. The method also includes processing data with the first processing unit in accordance with the first configuration word. The method also includes transmitting a second configuration word to the first processing unit. The method also includes transmitting a reconfiguration signal to the first unit, the reconfiguration signal indicating that the first unit should begin processing data in accordance with the second configuration word. If the first processing unit has completed processing data in accordance with the first configuration word prior to when the reconfiguration signal is received by the first processing unit, data may be processed by the first processing unit in accordance with the second configuration word.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: PACT XPP Technologies AG
    Inventors: Martin Vorbach, Volker Baumgarte, Gerd Ehlers, Frank May, Armin Nückel
  • Patent number: 6998872
    Abstract: Lookup table (LUT) circuits can optionally be configured as two or more smaller LUTs having independent input signals. A LUT circuit includes a tristate buffer circuit coupled between first and second multiplexer stages. The data input of the tristate buffer circuit is provided as a first output signal from the LUT circuit. The output of the second multiplexer stage provides the second LUT output signal. The tristate buffer circuit can include a tristate buffer with a pullup and a pulldown on the output terminal. To configure the circuit as a single LUT, the buffer is enabled (tristate disabled), and both the pullup and pulldown are turned off. To configure the circuit as two separate LUTs, the buffer is tristated and either the pullup or the pulldown is enabled. Additional multiplexer stages and tristate buffer circuits can be included to enable the division of the circuit into larger numbers of LUTs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Xilinx, Inc.
    Inventors: Manoj Chirania, Venu M. Kondapalli
  • Patent number: 6987401
    Abstract: A programmable logic device (PLD) includes a compare-select circuitry. The compare-select circuitry includes logic elements 1 through N. Each logic element comprises a compare circuitry and a selector circuitry. The compare circuitry compares two inputs of the logic element and generates a compare output signal of the logic element. The selector circuitry provides one of the two inputs of the logic element as an output in response to a selection signal. The selection signal for all logic elements (i.e., logic elements 1 through N) constitutes the compare output signal of the Nth logic element. A median-calculation apparatus is also disclosed. The median-filter apparatus includes at least one insertion-sort circuitry. The at least one insertion-sort circuitry performs insertion-sorting of a set of input numbers corresponding to that insertion-sort circuitry to generate a corresponding set of sorted numbers. Each of the sorted set of numbers includes a median value of the corresponding set of input numbers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Altera Corporation
    Inventors: Martin Langhammer, Jonah Graham
  • Patent number: 6980028
    Abstract: A field programmable gate array having a plurality of input/output pads and dedicated input/output first-in/first-out memory. The dedicated input/output first-in/first-out memory comprising a plurality of input/output clusters coupled to the input/output pads of the field programmable gate array and a plurality of input/output block controllers coupled to said input/output clusters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Actel Corporation
    Inventors: William C. Plants, Arunangshu Kundu
  • Patent number: 6980025
    Abstract: A function generator is described that can be configured as a combinational logic, sequential logic, or routing cell. The function generator couples to a plurality of selector blocks that select a wire from a plurality of inputs. The selected wires are inputs to a function generator. The function generator, when configured as a combinational logic cell, can generate any function of its inputs. The function generator, when configured as a sequential logic cell, behaves as a register, where any of the inputs can be directed to input data, clear, clock enable, or reset signals. The register is configurable to a falling or rising edge flip-flop or a positive or negative level sensitive latch. As a routing element, logic cells selects one of its inputs. The output of the programmable cell can fan out to one or more inputs of another integrated cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Velogix, Inc.
    Inventors: Hare Krishna Verma, Ashok Vittal
  • Patent number: 6980027
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a field programmable gate array that has a plurality of dedicated first-in/first-out memory logic components. The field programmable gate array includes a plurality of synchronous random access memory blocks that are coupled to a plurality of dedicated first-in/first-out memory logic components and a plurality of random access memory clusters that are programmably coupled to the plurality of dedicated first-in/first-out memory logic components and to the plurality of synchronous random access memory blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Actel Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel Elftmann, Theodore Speers, Arunangshu Kundu
  • Patent number: 6980026
    Abstract: Structures and methods that can be used to reduce power consumption in programmable logic devices (PLDs). Varying delays on the input paths of a PLD lookup table (LUT) can cause the nodes within the LUT (including the LUT output signal) to change state several times each time the input signals change state. Therefore, a programmable logic block for a PLD is provided that registers the LUT input signals instead of, or in addition to, the LUT output signal. The delays on the input paths are equalized and “glitching” on the LUT nodes is greatly reduced or eliminated. Thus, power consumption is reduced. Methods are also provided of reducing power consumption in PLDs by replacing single-bit registers on LUT output signals with multi-bit registers on LUT input signals, or by including multi-bit input registers in addition to the single-bit output registers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Xilinx, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen M. Trimberger
  • Patent number: 6978427
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for implementing fast sum-of-products logic in a field programmable gate array (FPGA) is disclosed. The method includes literal-sharing decomposition of the sum-of-products logic to reduce the number of configurable logic block (CLB) slices required to implement wide fan-in logic functions on an FPGA. The decomposition is performed by combining product terms having similar literal patterns. The apparatus includes a CLB including a plurality of slices and a second-level logic (separate from the slices) circuit to combine the outputs of the slices. Typically, the second-level logic is an OR gate or its equivalent that implements the sum portion of the sum-of-products expression. Alternatively, a combining gate may be included within the slice to combine the output of the slice with the output of another slice preceding the first slice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: Xilinx, Inc.
    Inventor: Alireza S. Kaviani
  • Patent number: 6976160
    Abstract: During a reset condition or prior to system initialization of an FPGA-based system (100), a FPGA (102) can be pre-configured by loading a value from a memory cell (108) into at least one flip-flop (312) of the FPGA, which represents a configuration register for an FPGA memory controller (106). The FPGA memory controller can be configured using the value loaded in the flip-flop. The value loaded into the flip-flop from the memory cell can be a default value previously stored in the memory cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Xilinx, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Yin, Mehul R. Vashi
  • Patent number: 6970012
    Abstract: A programmable logic device (PLD) having heterogeneous programmable logic blocks. In one embodiment, the PLD includes programmable interconnect circuitry and programmable input-output circuitry coupled to the programmable interconnect circuitry. An array of programmable logic blocks is coupled to the interconnect circuitry. Each programmable logic block includes a plurality of programmable logic elements coupled to the interconnect circuitry. Each of the programmable logic elements is programmable to implement a common set of functions, and at least one but less than all of the programmable logic elements is programmable to implement a set of supplemental functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Xilinx, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick J. Crotty, Tao Pi
  • Patent number: 6963224
    Abstract: The invention relates to a reflexive optical screen that can show bright images with efficiency, and a viewing system that incorporates the same, and provides a reflexive optical screen 10 comprising a plurality of zonal V-grooved reflecting surfaces substantially concentrically located within a given surface and having a retrorelection action. Each of the zonal V-grooved reflecting surfaces comprises mutually orthogonal two conical facets 2 and 3 in a section orthogonal to a ridgeline of a V groove, and the conical facets 2 and 3 of each of the zonal V-grooved reflecting surfaces are located such that a bisector 5 for angles that the two conical facets 2 and 3 make in a section of each of the zonal V-grooved reflecting surfaces is oriented in the direction of a light ray incident on a position thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventor: Takayoshi Togino
  • Patent number: 6963221
    Abstract: Methods and circuitry for implementing high speed first-in first-out (FIFO) structures. In one embodiment, a FIFO is disclosed that allows the frequency of one clock, e.g., the write clock, to be different than (e.g., half) that of the other (read) clock. In another embodiment a FIFO is presented that can be set and/or reset asynchronously. Other embodiments are disclosed wherein the read and write pointers are effectively monitored to ensure proper timing relationship, to detect loss of clock as well as to detect other abnormal FIFO conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Broadcom Corporation
    Inventors: Afshin Momtaz, Xin Wang, Jun Cao, Armond Hairapetian, David Chung
  • Patent number: 6963220
    Abstract: Methods and circuitry for implementing high speed first-in first-out (FIFO) structures. In one embodiment, a FIFO is disclosed that allows the frequency of one clock, e.g., the write clock, to be different than (e.g., half) that of the other (read) clock. In another embodiment a FIFO is presented that can be set and/or reset asynchronously. Other embodiments are disclosed wherein the read and write pointers are effectively monitored to ensure proper timing relationship, to detect loss of clock as well as to detect other abnormal FIFO conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Broadcom Corporation
    Inventors: Afshin Momtaz, Xin Wang, Jun Cao, Armond Hairapetian, David Chung
  • Patent number: 6960936
    Abstract: The configurable electronic device comprises a configurable electronic device includes at least one configurable basic assembly. The basic assembly includes a programmable circuit having a plurality of programmable elements, and a first configurable interconnection network for mutually connecting the programmable circuits. A plurality of configurable arithmetic cells are mutually connected by a second configurable interconnection network. A third configurable interconnection network links the programmable circuit and the configurable arithmetic cells. A control bus is between the programmable circuit and the configurable arithmetic cells, and also extends within the configurable arithmetic cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics SA
    Inventor: Joël Cambonie
  • Patent number: 6958624
    Abstract: A bypassable latch circuit consumes less power in the bypass mode than it does in the latched mode. The circuit includes a flip-flop whose output is routed to an input of a multiplexer. The other input of the multiplexer is the input of the flip-flop as well. The multiplexer is used to select as the latch output either the registered or latched flip-flop output, or the flip-flop input. The flip-flop is modified by replacing the inverter at the flip-flop clock input with a logic gate that accepts as inputs both the clock input and a control input. The control input can cause the flip-flop to ignore the clock, preventing switching that consumes power by charging and discharging capacitive elements in the flip-flop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Altera Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory Starr, Martin Langhammer, Chiao Kai Hwang
  • Patent number: 6958625
    Abstract: A programmable logic device configurable to implement a finite state machine includes a hardwired microsequencer for executing microinstructions to sequence the finite state machine. The hardwired microsequencer includes a sequence memory for storing the microinstructions and a program counter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Lattice Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventor: Edward A. Ramsden
  • Patent number: 6954084
    Abstract: A large scale integrated (LSI) or a very large scale integrated (VLSI) logic circuit, such as a fully programmable gate array (FPGA), comprises a plurality of polysilicon thin film transistors TFTs. The circuit, which may include a delay circuit, is asynchronous and does not comprise a clock. Thus, operations to be performed by the TFTs need not be performed within a single clock period—rather the operation of each stage of TFTs in the circuit is dependent on receiving a signal either from an input to the circuit or from a preceding stage in the circuit. Problems with variations in the threshold voltage between the TFTs are therefore avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Mujahid Islam
  • Patent number: 6946985
    Abstract: The invention CONCERNS a device for reconfiguring an assembly of N basic electronic modules associated with k redundant modules comprising: N multiplexers each having a first terminal (di) capable of being connected to k+1 second terminals connected to the k+1 input/output terminals of a sequenced group of modules consisting of a basic module (Ui) and k other modules; N+k triggers (Fi) indicating a good or faulty condition of one of the N+k modules; and logic means associated with each multiplexer of rank j, where j is an integer ranging between 0 and N, to determine the number of triggers of rank 0 to j indicating a faulty condition, to determine the number of modules of the sequenced group associated with the module of rank j, to be counted to find a number of good modules equal to the first number, and to convert the first terminal of the multiplexer to its second terminal of rank equal to the second number.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: IROC Technologies
    Inventor: Michael Nicolaidis
  • Patent number: 6946872
    Abstract: Method and circuitry for implementing high speed multiple-data-rate interface architectures for programmable logic devices. The invention partitions I/O pins and their corresponding registers into independent multiple-data rate I/O modules each having at least one pin dedicated to the strobe signal DQS and others to DQ data signals. The modular architecture facilitates pin migration from one generation of PLDs to the next larger generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Altera Corporation
    Inventors: Philip Pan, Chiakang Sung, Joseph Huang, Yan Chong, Bonnie I. Wang
  • Patent number: 6943580
    Abstract: A logic element includes memory elements, multiplexers, and controls. The multiplexers are arranged in levels including a highest level of multiplexers with inputs connected to the memory elements and outputs connected to inputs of a next-to-highest level of multiplexers and a first level of multiplexers with inputs connected to outputs of a second level of multiplexers and at least one output. The controls are connected to the multiplexers. In a first operational mode the controls determine a first-mode output at the at least one output of the first level of multiplexers, and in a second operational mode the controls determine a plurality of second-mode outputs at selected outputs of multiplexers not at the first level of multiplexers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Altera Corporation
    Inventors: David Lewis, Bruce Pedersen, Sinan Kaptanoglu, Andy Lee
  • Patent number: 6943579
    Abstract: A programmable logic device includes at least one RAM block generating a first multi-bit calculation result which may, but does not necessarily, involve a multiplication of two operands. A shift operation is driven by a second multi-bit calculation result shifts the second multi-bit calculation result by at least one bit to generate a shifted second multi-bit calculation result. A multi-bit adder coupled to the at least one RAM block adds the shifted second multi-bit calculation result to the first multi-bit calculation result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Altera Corporation
    Inventors: Asher Hazanchuk, Benjamin Esposito
  • Patent number: 6940306
    Abstract: Methods and circuitry for implementing high speed first-in first-out (FIFO) structures. In one embodiment, a FIFO is disclosed that allows the frequency of one clock, e.g., the write clock, to be different than (e.g., half) that of the other (read) clock. In another embodiment a FIFO is presented that can be set and/or reset asynchronously. Other embodiments are disclosed wherein the read and write pointers are effectively monitored to ensure proper timing relationship, to detect loss of clock as well as to detect other abnormal FIFO conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Broadcom Corporation
    Inventors: Afshin Momtaz, Xin Wang, Jun Cao, Armond Hairapetian, David Chung
  • Patent number: 6937064
    Abstract: An embodiment of this invention pertains to a versatile and flexible logic element and logic array block (“LAB”). Each logic element includes a programmable combinational logic function block such as a lookup table (“LUT”) and a flip-flop. Within the logic element, multiplexers are provided to allow the flip-flop and the LUT to be programmably connected such that either the output of the LUT may be connected to the input of the flip-flop or the output of the flip-flop may be connected to the input of the LUT. An additional multiplexer allows the output of the flip-flop in one logic element to be connected to the input of a flip-flop in a different logic element within the same LAB. Output multiplexers selects between the output of the LUT and the output of the flip-flop to generate signals that drive routing lines within the LAB and to routing lines external to the LAB.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Altera Corporation
    Inventors: David M. Lewis, Paul Leventis, Andy L. Lee, Henry Kim, Bruce Pedersen, Chris Wysocki, Christopher F. Lane, Alexander Marquardt, Vikram Santurkar, Vaughn Betz
  • Patent number: 6928387
    Abstract: A circuit and method for distributing events in an event stream. A circuit for distributing events in a signal into a plurality of channels of circuitry capable of timestamping events is described. The circuit includes a first plurality of flip-flops arranged in a cascading configuration. The cascading configuration distributes a primary event stream into a first plurality of secondary event streams on each successive rising edge of the primary event stream. The circuit also includes a second plurality of flip-flops arranged in another cascading configuration for distributing the primary event stream. The primary event stream is distributed into a second plurality of secondary event streams on each successive falling edge of said primary event stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Credence Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Burnell G. West
  • Patent number: 6924662
    Abstract: This invention discloses a cell forming part of a customizable logic array device, the cell including at least first (34) and second multiplexers, each having a select input and an output, at least two inverters (42, 52), each having an input and an output, and electrical connections (26, 54), selectably connecting the output of the first multiplexer to either the select input of the second multiplexer or to the at least two inverters. A customizable logic array device including a plurality of cells, each cell including at least first and second multiplexers is also disclosed. The invention additionally discloses a cell forming part of a customizable logic array device, the cell including a pair of identical logic portion located on opposite sides of a driver portion. The driver portion includes at least two drivers, each having an input and an output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Chip Express (Israel) Ltd.
    Inventors: Lior Amarilio, Ariela Benasus, Michael Barshay, Tomer Refael Ben-Chen
  • Patent number: 6924665
    Abstract: A logic device re-programmable without terminating operation. In the logic device, a logic circuit is configured and maintained based on logic circuit configuration data for implementing a desired function. The logic device comprises: a memory holding the logic circuit configuration data for configuring and maintaining the logic circuit; and an address controller for writing, in an unused area of the memory, logic circuit configuration data for configuring and maintaining one or more additional logic circuits without terminating operation of the logic device. It is an object of the present invention to provide a logic device in which data re-writing, such as addition of functions and correction of problems, is available as required, without terminating operation of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Mitsurou Nakajima, Takayasu Mochida
  • Patent number: 6924663
    Abstract: A programmable logic device with ferroelectric configuration memories storing multiple configuration data sets. The device has programmable logic blocks, interconnections, and I/O blocks to provide desired logic functions. Those building blocks can be dynamically reconfigured by changing the selection of configuration data stored in the device's integral configuration memories. The configuration memories are divided into groups, so that they can be loaded concurrently with multiple configuration data streams. To protect the content of configuration memories from unauthorized access, the device employs an authentication mechanism that uses security IDs stored in the configuration memories. The device has a memory controller to provide an appropriate power supply sequence for ferroelectric memory cells to ensure the reliable data retention when the device is powered up or shut down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Shoichi Masui, Michiya Oura, Tsuzumi Ninomiya, Wataru Yokozeki, Kenji Mukaida
  • Patent number: 6922078
    Abstract: A programmable logic device includes a plurality of logic blocks organized into a cluster. Each logic block may form product terms of a fixed input width. The cluster is configured to provide input width cascading between the blocks. In addition, the cluster is configured to provide depth cascading such that sum of all the product terms from one logic block may be cascaded to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Lattice Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventor: Om P. Agrawal
  • Patent number: 6914450
    Abstract: A register-file bit read apparatus includes a decoder operable to receive a number of address-bit signals and responsively assert a select signal on one of M select lines. Each select line corresponds to a respective one of M register-file cells. The apparatus also includes a multiplexer having Q output nodes and M selectors. Each selector is coupled to one of the select lines and that select line's corresponding register-file cell. The selectors are in Q groups, each coupled to a respective one of the multiplexer's output nodes. The apparatus also includes an output logic gate having Q inputs, coupled to respective ones of the multiplexer output nodes. The multiplexer includes Q pull-ups, each of which is coupled to a respective one of the multiplexer output nodes and is operable to drive its multiplexer output node responsive to one of the address-bit signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Sam Gat-Shang Chu, Peter Juergen Klim, Michael Ju Hyeok Lee, Jose Angel Paredes
  • Patent number: 6909417
    Abstract: A level shifter 13 is provided for each of SR flip flops F1 constituting a shift register 11. The level shifter 13 increases a voltage of a clock signal CK. This arrangement reduces a distance for transmitting a clock signal whose voltage has been increased, as compared with a construction in which a voltage of a clock signal is increased by a single level shifter and the signal is transmitted to each of the flip flops; consequently, a load capacity of the level shifter can be smaller. Furthermore, each of the level shifters is operated during a pulse output of the previous level shifter 13, and the operation is suspended at the end of the pulse output. Thus, the level shifters 13 can operate only when it is necessary to apply a clock signal CK to the corresponding SR flip flop F1. As a result, even when an amplitude of a clock signal is small, it is possible to reduce power consumption of the shift resister under normal operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hajime Washio, Yasushi Kubota, Kazuhiro Maeda, Yasuyoshi Kaise, Michael James Brownlow, Graham Andrew Cairns
  • Patent number: 6903574
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed herein to provide access to memory cells within a programmable logic device. For example, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a serial memory interface is associated with each special functional block within a programmable logic device to provide access to configuration memory cells of the special functional block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Lattice Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventors: Zheng (Jeff) Chen, Fulong Zhang, Harold Scholz
  • Patent number: 6903572
    Abstract: A switch circuit that is simple in constitution and capable of reliably controlling a switch cell is provided. Since the gate terminal G1 of a transistor M1 in a switch cell SC is connected only to the terminal 37 of a transistor M2, when the transistor M2 is set to off, the moving path of the charge accumulated at the gate G1 of the transistor M1 is shut off. Consequently, even if the transistor M2 is set to an on state and immediately set back to an off state, the transistor M1 remains for some period of time in an on or off state corresponding to the switching data given through a bit line BL. It is possible to cause the transistor M1 to remain in an on or off state for a specified period of time without disposing a specific circuit for temporary storing the switching data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Rohm Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Nozawa, Shinzo Koyama, Yoshikazu Fujimori
  • Patent number: 6904471
    Abstract: A programmable logic controller with enhanced and extended the capabilities. A digital input filter implement filters with considerable less logic by simulating the action of a capacitor being driven by a constant current source whose output voltage is sensed by a comparator with a large amount of hysteresis. A pulse catch circuit captures the input pulse even though the update occurs between scan cycles. A pulse output controller includes a hardware pipeline mechanism to allow for smooth, hardware-controlled transitions from wave-form to wave-form. A free port link allows the user to control the port either manually or by operation of a user program. In order to provide higher performance for communication using PPI protocol, the PLC includes a built-in protocol. An n-bit modem protocol ensures data integrity without use of a parity type data integrity system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Steven Boggs, Temple L. Fulton, Steve Hausman, Gary McNabb, Alan McNutt, Steven W. Stimmel
  • Patent number: 6897680
    Abstract: A programmable logic device has many regions of programmable logic, together with relatively general-purpose, programmable, interconnection resources that can be used to make interconnections between virtually any of the logic regions. In addition, various types of more local interconnection resources are associated with each logic region for facilitating the making of interconnections between adjacent or nearby logic regions without the need to use the general-purpose interconnection resources for those interconnections. The local interconnection resources support flexible clustering of logic regions via relatively direct and therefore high-speed interconnections, preferably in both horizontal and vertical directions in the typically two-dimensional array of logic regions. The logic region clustering options provided by the local interconnection resources are preferably boundary-less or substantially boundary-less within the array of logic regions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Altera Corporation
    Inventors: James Schleicher, James Park, Sergey Shumarayev, Bruce Pedersen, Tony Ngai, Wei-Jen Huang, Victor Maruri, Rakesh Patel
  • Patent number: 6897678
    Abstract: A programmable logic device is provided that contains circuitry that may be used for observing logic signals from programmable logic circuits on the device for testing the operation of the device. Circuitry is also provided that may be used for preloading data into various circuits on the device. The logic signal observing circuitry may allow registered signals to be observed, may allow combinatorial signals to be observed, or may allow both registered and combinatorial signals to be observed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Altera Corporation
    Inventors: Ketan Zaveri, Christopher F. Lane, Srinivas T. Reddy, Andy L. Lee, Cameron R. McClintock, Bruce B. Pedersen
  • Patent number: 6894531
    Abstract: The present invention provides circuitry for implementing a multiple data rate interface architectures for programmable logic devices. The programmable logic device of the invention includes a core and surrounding periphery. The core includes a plurality of logic elements arranged in an array. Some of the logic elements within the core include registers that are used as data registers for the multiple data rate interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Altera Corporation
    Inventors: Behzad Nouban, Toan D. Do, Pooyan Khoshkhoo
  • Patent number: 6894533
    Abstract: A programmable logic integrated circuit device has a plurality of regions of programmable logic disposed on the device in a plurality of intersecting rows and columns of such regions. Interconnection resources (e.g., interconnection conductors, signal buffers/drivers, programmable connectors, etc.) are provided on the device for making programmable interconnections to, from, and/or between the regions. At least some of these interconnection resources are provided in two forms that are architecturally similar (e.g., with similar and substantially parallel routing) but that have significantly different signal propagation speed characteristics. For example, a major or larger portion of such dual-form interconnection resources may have what may be termed normal signal speed, while a smaller minor portion may have significantly faster signal speed. Secondary (e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Altera Corporation
    Inventors: Tony Ngai, Bruce Pedersen, Sergey Shumarayev, James Schleicher, Wei-Jen Huang, Michael Hutton, Victor Maruri, Rakesh Patel, Peter J. Kazarian, Andrew Leaver, David W. Mendel, Jim Park
  • Patent number: 6888372
    Abstract: A programmable logic device is provided which includes a multi-port RAM block with a first port including first address registers and first data registers and with a second port including second address registers and a second data registers. At least one look-up table is stored in the RAM block. First programmable logic circuitry is programmed to operate as a shift register with multiple tap outputs to multiple first address registers. Second programmable logic circuitry is programmed to operate as accumulate circuitry which includes a multi-bit input coupled to multiple first data registers and includes an accumulator output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Altera Corporation
    Inventor: Asher Hazanchuk
  • Patent number: 6888373
    Abstract: Disclosed is a configurable logic circuit that includes at least 6 inputs and at least two outputs. The configurable logic element can carry out only a subset of all 6-input logic functions and, thus, requires a substantially smaller silicon area than a 6-LUT that can perform all 6-input logic functions. Also, the configurable logic circuit can be configured such that a first subset of the inputs drive one of the outputs and a second subset of the inputs drive another output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Altera Corporation
    Inventors: Sinan Kaptanoglu, David Lewis, Bruce Pedersen
  • Patent number: 6888374
    Abstract: An FPCA includes a scheme for peripheral routing that provides symmetrical routing across its entire area including the periphery by incorporating peripheral routing lines of equal length that are symmetrically deflected orthogonally. The symmetrical peripheral routing lines are connected to switch boxes and connection boxes at the periphery for maintaining constant routing channel width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics Pvt. Ltd.
    Inventor: Ankur Bal
  • Patent number: 6882176
    Abstract: A programmable logic device architecture. This programmable logic architecture includes a first logic block (425) containing programmable logic elements for performing logic functions. The architecture may also include a diagnostic block interface (415), which interfaces with the first logic block (425), for performing JTAG functions, configuring the first logic block (425), initializing the first logic block (425), interfacing with off-chip diagnostic and test devices and equipment, and performing other similar functions. The first logic block (425) may be programmably coupled to other components on the integrated circuit using a first programmable interconnect network (511). The first logic block (425) includes a plurality of second logic blocks (505) which may be programmably coupled using a second programmable interconnect network (521). The second programmable interconnect network (521) may be programmably coupled to the first programmable interconnect network (511).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignees: Altera Corporation, Quickturn Design Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin A. Norman, Rakesh H. Patel, Stephen P. Sample, Michael R. Butts
  • Patent number: 6876228
    Abstract: It is one object of the present invention to provide an FPGA for which the configuration time and the time required for rewriting connection information and logic structure information can be reduced, and for which the size of the area occupied can also be reduced. In order to store connection information for an FPGA, magnetic storage elements MTJ1 to MTJn, which are memory cells of an MRAM, are provided, and using a shift register 71, connection information is written to the magnetic storage elements MTJ1 to MTJn. The shift register 71 includes register elements SR1 to SRn, which correspond to the magnetic storage elements MTJ1 to MTJn, to which the connection information is serially input and stored. When the power is switched on, the connection information stored in the magnetic storage elements MTJ1 to MTJn is latched by latch elements LT1 to LTn, and is output to switching circuits 6 to interconnect logic blocks 51.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Toshio Sunaga, Hisatada Miyatake, Kohji Kitamura
  • Patent number: 6873182
    Abstract: A Programmable Logic Device (PLD) incorporating a plurality of Programmable Logic Blocks (PLBs) providing enhanced flexibility for Cascade logic functions, each comprising a multi-input Look Up Table (LUT) providing one input to a Cascade Logic block for implementing desired Cascade Logic functions. The other input of the Cascade Logic block is a Cascade-In signal. A 2-input selection multiplexer receives one input from the output of the Cascade Logic block and the other from the output of the LUT for selecting either the Cascade Logic output or the LUT output as the unregistered output. The arrangement is such that the Cascade output and the multiplexer output are simultaneously available from the PLB.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics Pvt. Ltd.
    Inventors: Sushma Mohan, Parvesh Swami
  • Patent number: 6870393
    Abstract: A field programmable device including a plurality of logic blocks; a plurality of configurable connections; at least one switching circuit; and a plurality of lines extending at least partially through the device. In a configuration mode, the switching circuit causes configuration signals to be passed to the configurable connections via the plurality of lines and in a processing mode, the plurality of lines are used in at least one of at least one logic block and at least one connection to carry data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics Limited
    Inventor: Deepak Agarwal
  • Patent number: 6867615
    Abstract: A field programmable gate array having a plurality of input/output pads and dedicated input/output first-in/first-out memory. The dedicated input/output first-in/first-out memory comprising a plurality of input/output clusters coupled to the input/output pads of the field programmable gate array and a plurality of input/output block controllers coupled to said input/output clusters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Actel Corporation
    Inventors: William C. Plants, Arunangshu Kundu
  • Patent number: 6867614
    Abstract: A multiconfiguration module (MCM) includes a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a memory flash, and a complex programmable logic device (CPLD). Hardware interfaces between the concerned components and the use of a raw FPGA configuration data stream (representing a part of FPGA code which should be common to all streams) are discussed. The raw configuration data stream handles communications between a user application running on the host system and the hardware platform components. The user application has the capability to load a new configuration data stream into the memory flash and request a full or partial reconfiguration of the FPGA with the available configuration data stream. This results in an FPGA that is re-programmable on-demand and that is useable in a variety of hardware platforms such as, for example, RAIT.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Storage Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Philippe Y. Le Graverand, Agnes C. Hermeline
  • Patent number: 6864713
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for providing a multi-stage interconnect architecture, such as for high density and high performance complex programmable logic devices. As an example, a first stage of a two-stage interconnect architecture programmably routes signals from a global routing structure to a second stage of the two-stage interconnect architecture. The second stage routes signals from the first stage to a number of logic blocks. The second stage also-optionally routes feedback signals from the logic blocks along with signals from associated I/O terminals back to the logic blocks to provide local feedback capability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Lattice Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventors: Om P. Agrawal, Paul R. Bonwick
  • Patent number: 6861869
    Abstract: A architecture has top, middle and low levels. The top level is an array of B16×16 tiles enclosed by I/O blocks. The routing resources in the middle level are expressway routing channels including interconnect conductors. At the lowest level, there are block connect routing channels, local mesh routing channels, and direct connect interconnect conductors to connect the logic elements to further routing resources. Each B1 block includes four clusters of devices. Each of the clusters includes first and second LUT3s, a LUT2, and a DFF. Each of the LUT3s have three inputs and one output. Each of the LUT2s have two inputs and one output. Each DFF has a data input and a data output. In each of the clusters the outputs of the LUTs are multiplexed to the input of DFF, and symmetrized with the output of the DFF to form two outputs of each of the clusters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Actel Corporation
    Inventor: Sinan Kaptanoglu