Abstract: The fuse points within a programmable AND array may be programmed with configuration signals to select for logical signals to form product term outputs in a logic mode. In a switch mode, a subset of these fuse points may be programmed with dynamically-created operating signals to form a cross point switch matrix.

Abstract: An apparatus is described comprising: a set of logic blocks configured to perform designated data processing functions; a set of redundant logic blocks also configured to perform the designated data processing functions; and a logic block selector module to replace one or more of the set of logic blocks with one or more of the set of redundant logic blocks according to specified logic block replacement conditions.

Abstract: A programmable I/O element for an I/O terminal of a logic array is suitable for operating according to high speed 110 modes such as double data rate and zero bus turnaround. The I/O element may include an input block with two registers for registering input signals from the terminal upon alternate clock edges. In addition or alternatively, it may include an output block with two registers that separately register output signals from the array on the same clock edge and a multiplexer that alternately outputs those signals. For bidirectional terminals, the multiplexer output is connectable to the I/O terminal via an output buffer, and an output enable block provides an enable signal to a gating input of the output buffer. Programmable delays may be included in the input, output, and output enable paths, in particular to provide a slower turn-on time than turn-off time for the output buffer.

Abstract: A CPLD employs a low-voltage, non-degenerative transmitter circuit to eliminate the need for a dedicated control pin to provide the relatively high voltage levels required to verify the program states of programmable memory cells. Eliminating the need for a dedicated control pin frees up valuable chip real estate for the inclusion of an additional general-purpose input/output pin.

Abstract: At least some of the interconnection signaling on a programmable logic device (“PLD”) is by differential signaling using differential driver circuitry to apply differential signals to a pair of conductors that extend to differential receiver circuitry. Such differential interconnection signaling helps the PLD operate satisfactorily with lower power supply voltages. The conductors in each differential signaling pair may cross over one another at various intervals in order to help reduce the adverse effects of capacitive coupling between adjacent and parallel signaling paths.

Abstract: There is disclosed a field programmable gate array (FPGA) that performs bit swapping functions in the interconnects rather than in the configurable logic blocks of the FPGA.

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.

Abstract: A pre-diffused high density array of core memory cells is provided in a metal programmable device. The peripheral logic is made up of gate array cells in the metal programmable device. The peripheral logic may be configured to access the core memory cells as various memory types, widths, depths, and other configurations. If the entire memory is not needed, then the unused memory cells can be used as logic gates. The application-specific circuit, including peripheral logic, memory interface logic, and memory configuration is programmed with a metal layer.

Abstract: An integrated circuit includes non-volatile and volatile memory, with the volatile memory controlling the integrated circuit's functionality. Various techniques are disclosed for programming the different types of memory through one or more data ports to provide in-system programmability and dynamic reconfigurability. External configuration devices are not required if the data from the non-volatile memory is transferred directly to the volatile memory.

Abstract: A clock tree distribution network for a field programmable gate array comprises an interface that has a root signal chosen from at least one of an external clock signal, an internal clock signal, a plurality of phase lock loop cell output signals and programmable elements. The FPGA includes a logic array that has programmable elements coupling the logic array to a programmable routing architecture and the interface. A routed clock network selects a signal from between a clock signal from the interface, a local signal from the logic array through the routing architecture, Vcc or ground, and routes the selected signal to the logic array through the clock tree distribution network. A hardwired clock network that selects a signal from between a clock signal from the interface and a local signal from the routing architecture, and routes the selected signal to a plurality of flip-flops in the logic array through the clock tree distribution network.

Abstract: A programmable logic circuit device has a plurality of logic blocks, a plurality of routing wires, a plurality of switch circuits, a plurality of connection blocks, and an I/O block performing an input/output operation with external equipment. The routing wires are connected to each of the logic blocks, the switch circuits are provided at an intersection of each of the routing wires, and the connection blocks are provided between an I/O line of each of the logic blocks and each of the routing wires. Each of the logic blocks has a look up table of M inputs and N outputs, which has a plurality of LUT units; and an internal configuration control circuit controlling an internal configuration of the plurality of LUT units.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for distributing memory within one or more regions of circuitry that perform logic functions (or other types of functions that require dense interconnect structures) on an integrated circuit. The distributed memory reduces high density routing congestion, allows increased logic utilization, and provides areas for additional interconnect structure. Various techniques are also disclosed for accessing the memory.

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.

Abstract: A semiconductor integrated circuit includes a memory for holding data a logic circuit inputs or outputs. The memory is composed of logic cells, and is placed in a logic region. Thus, the semiconductor integrated circuit can prevent forming wasted space, in which no circuit component is built, and reduce its area and power consumption. It can reduce the design period of the memory as compared with the case where hard macro cells are used.

Abstract: A semiconductor device includes first, second and third semiconductor circuits. The first semiconductor circuit has a first function. The second semiconductor circuit has a second function different from the first function. The third semiconductor circuit is provided in the second semiconductor circuit and has part of the first function. The third semiconductor circuit transmits/receives no signals to/from the second semiconductor circuit and operates independently of the second semiconductor circuit.

Abstract: Described are methods and circuits for aligning data and clock signals. Methods in accordance with some embodiments separate incoming data into three differently timed data signals: an early signal, an intermediate signal, and a late signal. The timing of the three data signals can be collectively moved with respect to the clock signal. In addition, the temporal spacing between the three signals can be adjusted so that the early and late signals define a window encompassing the intermediate signal. The three signals are aligned with respect to the clock edge to center the intermediate data signal on the clock edge. The early and late signals can be monitored to identify changes in the relative timing of the clock and data signals. Some embodiments automatically alter the timing of the data and/or clock signals to keep the intermediate data signal centered on the clock edge.

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.

Abstract: The circuitry of a programmable logic device (for example, an FPGA) includes a configurable logic portion and a configuration memory. The configuration memory stores configuration data that configures the configurable logic portion to realize a user-defined circuit. The configurable logic portion is disposed on a first die whereas the configuration memory is disposed on a second die. The second die is bonded to the first die in stacked relation. Each bit of configuration data passes from the second die to the first die through a pair of micropads. One micropad of the pair is disposed on the first die and the other micropad of the pair is disposed on the second die. When the first die and second die are brought together in face-to-face relation, the two micropads form an electrical connection through which the configuration data bit passes from the second die to the first die.

Abstract: A number of enhanced logic elements (LEs) are provided to form a FPGA. Each enhanced LE comprises a multiple input-single output truth table, and a complementary pair of master-slave latches having a data, a set and a reset input. Each enhanced LE further comprises a plurality of multiplexers and buffers, and control logic. Additionally, the improved FPGA further comprises a network of crossbars, a context bus, a scan register, and a plurality of trigger circuitry. As a result, each LE may be individually initialized, its signal state frozen momentarily, the frozen state be read, trace data be output, and trigger inputs be conditionally generated. Furthermore, the enhanced LEs may be used for “level sensitive” as well as “edge sensitive” circuit design emulations.

Abstract: An enhanced performance field programmable gate array integrated circuit comprises a field programmable gate array and other functional circuitry such as a mask-programmable gate array in the same integrated circuit. A circuit interface provides communication between the field programmable gate array, the mask-programmable gate array and the integrated circuit I/O.

Abstract: A plurality of switching transistors is provided, each connects power supply terminals of a plurality of first circuit blocks to a power supply line, respectively. Among the first circuit blocks, the power supply terminals of the first circuit blocks operating at different timings are connected by an internal power supply line. A power supply control circuit simultaneously turns on the switching transistors connected to the internal power supply line, in response to operation(s) of at least any one of the first circuit blocks connected to the internal power supply line. Since the switching transistors can be shared among the first circuit blocks not operating simultaneously, operation speed of the first circuit blocks can be increased. Since a total size of the switching transistors can be made small, standby current can be decreased. Accordingly, a semiconductor integrated circuit operating at a high speed can be constituted without increasing the standby current.

Abstract: A programmable logic device (PLD) includes programmable electronic circuitry. The programmable electronic circuitry allows programming the functionality of the PLD. The programmable electronic circuitry includes one or more of programmable interconnects, pass devices, look-up table circuits, and/or multi-input logic circuits. Each of the programmable interconnects, pass devices, look-up table circuits, and/or multi-input logic circuits includes one or more of dynamic threshold metal oxide semiconductor (DTMOS) transistors, fully depleted metal oxide semiconductor (FDMOS) transistors, partially depleted metal oxide semiconductor (PDMOS) transistors, and/or double-gate metal oxide semiconductor transistors.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to magnetoresistive memory and data storage devices. A system for providing distributed functionality in an electronic environment includes a plurality of platforms suitable for providing a logic function. The platforms include embedded programmable logic, and MRAM memory, the logic and MRAM memory communicatively coupled via an interconnect.

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.

Abstract: A programmable integrated circuit is disclosed that includes a nonvolatile memory cell programmed to represent a configuration bit associated with a special purpose function. A volatile memory cell is associated with the nonvolatile memory cell. The integrated circuit includes a logic gate for logically combining states of the volatile and nonvolatile memory cells to selectively enable the special purpose function, even before the volatile memory cell is initialized. In this way, the predetermined function can be executed prior to a complete initialization of the integrated circuit.

Abstract: The disclosed system relates to a freeway routing system and a fast-freeway routing system for a field programmable gate array. The field programmable gate array comprises a two by two array of field programmable gate array tiles. Each tile comprises: a plurality of functional groups arranged in rows and columns; a plurality of interface groups surrounding the plurality of functional groups such that one interface group is positioned at each end of each row and column, each of the interface groups comprising a set of freeway input and output ports; a freeway set of routing conductors configured to transfer signals to the freeway input ports and from the output ports of the interface groups in each of the field programmable gate array tiles. The freeway set of routing conductors comprises: a plurality of vertical conductors that form intersections with a plurality of horizontal conductors; and programmable bi-directional three state interconnect elements located at the intersections.

Abstract: A plurality of circuit cells, a plurality of matrix switch sections and a plurality of switch sections for connecting between the plurality of circuit cells, all of which form a part of a circuit cell array, and a plurality of input/output cell sections arranged around the circuit cell array all change their circuit configurations in accordance with a configuration data to be supplied. In some of these circuit blocks, at least a part of the circuit thereof is fixed at a predetermined circuit configuration, and a conversion of the configuration data based on proprietary information regarding the fixed circuit is performed at a supplier of the configuration data. Thus, a differential configuration data for portions of the circuit other than the fixed circuit portion is generated and supplied to the integrated circuit.

Abstract: A new digital configurable macro architecture is described. The digital configurable macro architecture is well suited for microcontroller or controller designs. In particular, the foundation of the digital configurable macro architecture is a programmable digital circuit block. In an embodiment, programmable digital circuit blocks are 8-bit circuit modules that can be programmed to perform any one of a variety of predetermined digital functions by changing the contents of a few registers therein, unlike a FPGA which is a generic device that can be programmed to perform any arbitrary digital function. Specifically, the circuit components of the programmable digital circuit block are designed for reuse in several of the predetermined digital functions such that to minimize the size of the programmable digital circuit block.

Abstract: Scan chain routing efficiency is improved in an integrated circuit (IC) such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) by defining flip flop groupings prior to place and route. A flip flop grouping specifies the arrangement of multiple flip flops and the scan chain routing through those flip flops. The predetermined flip flop arrangement of the flip flop grouping then prevents undesirable flip flop placements during place and route. The flip flop grouping therefore minimizes the layout impacts of scan insertion while simplifying the place and route process. Different flip flop groupings can be used in a single IC design, and flip flop groupings can be combined with individual flip flops in the IC layout. A flip flop grouping can include control logic for the flip flops. Clock gating logic can be offloaded from the flip flops into the control logic to further improve layout efficiency.

Abstract: Circuitry that includes blocks of memory can be used to emulate a content addressable memory (“CAM”). The CAM data is stored in enough blocks of memory so that all of that data can be gradually read out in the time allowed for completion of a CAM search. As the data is read out, it is compared to CAM search data. If and when a match is found, a CAM address associated with the CAM data found to match the search data is generated. Alternatively or in addition, a simple “match” signal may be generated. If desired, the contents of the emulated CAM may be changed. To do this, circuitry is provided for converting the CAM address of the new data to an appropriate physical address (in the above-mentioned memory blocks) for that data.

Abstract: A programmable logic device, such as a field programmable gate array, is partially reconfigured using a read-modify-write scheme that is controlled by a processor. The partial reconfiguration includes (1) loading a base set of configuration data values into a configuration memory array of the programmable logic device, thereby configuring the programmable logic device; (2) reading a first frame of configuration data values from the configuration memory array; (3) modifying a subset of the configuration data values in the first frame of configuration data values, thereby creating a first modified frame of configuration data values; and (4) overwriting the first frame of configuration data values in the configuration memory array with the first modified frame of configuration data values, thereby partially reconfiguring the programmable logic device. The steps of reading, modifying and overwriting are performed under the control of a processor.

Abstract: A routing structure in a PLD is implemented in a staggered fashion. Routing lines that would otherwise be “partial” and dangling at a routing architecture boundary are driven, providing additional flexibility for routing signals to the PLD core from the boundaries.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising one or more configurable interface tiles. The configurable interface tiles may be configured to communicate one or more signals between one or more programmable logic cores and one or more fixed function cores. The one or more configurable interface tiles, the one or more programmable logic cores and the one or more fixed function cores may be integrated on a single chip.

Abstract: A programmable logic device includes a non-volatile permission memory block to enable a customer to utilize a proprietary core. In one embodiment, the core supplier designs its core to check for a specified permission bit or bit pattern in the permission memory block before the core will operate. If the permission bit or bit pattern is set properly, the core functions correctly when implemented in the PLD. If not, the core will not function. To prevent the customer from modifying the core such that it no longer depends upon the permission bits to function, the configuration bitstream used to program the PLD can be encrypted before and during transmission to the PLD. This encryption ensures security of the customer's logic design as well as the supplier's core design. In this manner, the customer remains dependent upon properly set permission memory bits, i.e. proper authorization, to obtain core functionality.

Abstract: A programmable logic core (PLC) can be integrated into custom ICS such as ASICs and SOCs. An example PLC for integration into a custom IC includes a Multi Scale Array (MSA) that consists of an array of configurable ALUs, an Application Circuit Interface (ACI) that provides signal interface between the MSA and application circuitry, and a PLC Adapter that initiates and loads the PLC configuration data and interfaces.

Abstract: A circuit that reduces external terminal count of a semiconductor chip, such as a communications chip or other type of chip that requires the generation of configuration codes, by reducing the number of external input terminals required for generating the configuration data. The circuit includes multiplexers, each of which selects output data or configuration data, and includes an output in communication with a respective external output terminal of the chip. A selector is connectable between a selected one of the external output terminals and an external input terminal in communication with a memory to serially input configuration data on that output terminal to the memory to configure the chip. Thus, configuration codes are generated for the chip using a reduced number of external input terminals, thereby reducing the overall external terminal count of the chip. The circuit and chip may be embodied on a network or Ethernet card.

Abstract: A hardware emulation system is disclosed which reduces hardware cost by time-multiplexing multiple design signals onto physical logic chip pins and printed circuit board. The reconfigurable logic system of the present invention comprises a plurality of reprogrammable logic devices, and a plurality of reprogrammable interconnect devices. The logic devices and interconnect devices are interconnected together such that multiple design signals share common I/O pins and circuit board traces. A logic analyzer for a hardware emulation system is also disclosed. The logic circuits necessary for executing logic analyzer functions is programmed into the programmable resources in the logic chips of the emulation system.

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.

Abstract: A programmable logic device (PLD) includes a first memory block and at least a second memory block, where the two memory blocks have different memory sizes.

Abstract: The invention relates to an FPGA (field programmable gate array) with a plurality of functional blocks. An interface enables data and address communication between a processor and the FPGA. The gate array is provided with configurations from a configuration memory. The FPGA also includes a buffer memory for selectively storing configurations from the configuration memory and for the direct selective access, from the FPGA, to any configuration stored in the buffer memory.

Abstract: A number of enhanced logic elements (LEs) are provided to form a reconfigurable integrated circuit (IC). Each enhanced LE comprises a multiple input-single output truth table, and a complementary pair of master-slave latches having a data, a set and a reset input. Each enhanced LE further comprises a plurality of multiplexers and buffers, and control logic. Additionally, the improved IC may further comprises a scalable network of crossbars, a context bus, a scan register, and/or a plurality of trigger circuitry. As a result, each LE may be individually initialized, its signal state frozen momentarily, the frozen state be read, trace data be output, and trigger inputs be conditionally generated, making the IC particularly suitable for circuit design emulation. Furthermore, the enhanced LEs may be used for “level sensitive” as well as “edge sensitive” circuit design emulations.

Abstract: A method for programming a series of in-system programmable devices that uses Boundary-Scan techniques to read device identification codes from each device of a system, and to automatically generate a board/device information file including a record for each device arranged in the order in which the devices are chained in the system. The device identification codes are then used to automatically retrieve device specifications from a central database. When no identification code is provided from the device, or the database fails to include specifications for a particular device, the user is prompted to enter minimum information or specifications necessary to carry out communications with the device. After device specifications are entered for each device, the user is prompted to enter configuration data, which is automatically matched to its associated device, and compared for consistency with the device specifications.

Abstract: Techniques and circuitry are used to more rapidly configuring programmable integrated circuits. Configuration data is input into a programmable integrated circuit in parallel via parallel inputs (705), and this data is also handled internally in parallel. The configuration data will be stored in a data register (722). This data register is segmented into two or more segments, each segment being made up of a serial chain of registers (808). The configuration data is input into the two of more segments of the data registers in parallel. Circuitry is also provided to handle redundancy.

Abstract: A programmable array logic circuit macrocell using ferromagnetic memory cells. More particularly, the present invention uses a non-volatile ferromagnetic memory cell to temporarily store binary data. It is an advantage of the invention to have the ferromagnetic memory cells or bits to store data even when there is no power provided to the circuitry, thus saving power during operation of the programmable logic circuitry, and ensuring that there is no loss of the data should there be a temporary power shutdown. Additionally, the ferromagnetic cells provide for indefinite number of switching actions on the data without degradation to the capacity to store data therein, thus eliminating “write fatigue”. The invention provides an integrated circuit, comprising a programmable OR array (24), a programmable AND array (28), coupled to the programmable OR array, and a macrocell output circuit (22).

Abstract: Efficient register circuits allow the loading of data values into a memory element using set and reset terminals in addition to loading via the data input terminal. A register circuit includes a memory element and a logical AND gate. A load command input terminal enables the load, and a load value input terminal provides the new value to be loaded. The memory element has set and reset terminals. In one embodiment, the reset function overrides the set function when both terminals provide active signals. The set terminal is coupled to the load command input terminal. The logical AND gate has input terminals coupled to the load command and load value input terminals, and an output terminal coupled to the reset terminal of the memory element. In another embodiment, the set function overrides the reset function, and the signals driving the set and reset terminals are reversed.

Abstract: A programmable interconnect circuit comprising a plurality of I/O cells arranged into I/O blocks includes a routing structure for each I/O block, wherein each routing structure may programmably route signals between the plurality of I/O cells and the I/O cells within its I/O block. Each I/O cell includes a multiplexer and an I/O circuit associated with a pin of the programmable interconnect circuit. Associated with each I/O block is a control array receiving control signals from its routing structure. An AND array in the control array produces a set of product term control signals for its I/O block from the received control signals.

Abstract: A temporal delay circuit for synchronizing a source synchronous input with a local clock is provided. The source synchronous input comprises a data input and a source synchronous clock. The temporal delay circuit includes a temporal delay queue, a write pointer arranged to write the data input to the temporal delay queue based on the source synchronous clock, and a read pointer synchronized with the local clock and arranged to read from the temporal delay queue according to a desired delay.

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.

Abstract: A universal logic module for use in a programmable logic device, capable of generating all logical functions of three variables or less. The universal logic module also implements a full adder with carry propagation.

Abstract: A programmable variable depth and width random-access memory circuit is provided. The memory circuit contains rows and columns of memory cells for storing data. A row decoder is used to address individual rows of the memory cells. Column address circuitry receives a column address signal and a width and depth selection signal. A column decoder within the column address circuitry addresses one or more columns of memory cells of the RAM array based on the selected width of the array. The output of the column decoder is routed to the appropriate column or columns of memory cells by a pattern of fixed connections and a group of programmable multiplexers. The number of data output lines to which data signals are provided is determined by the selected width of the RAM array. The output circuitry contains a group of programmable demultiplexers and a routing array having a pattern of fixed connections suitable for passing data signals from the RAM array to the selected number of data output lines.