Embedded memory and special purpose processor structures within integrated circuits

Abstract

The integrated circuit may include a programmable circuit (270) operable according to a first clock frequency, and a memory block (205). The memory block may include a storage element (210) having at least one data port and a memory processor (215) coupled to the data port of the storage element and to the programmable circuit. The memory processor may be operable according to a second clock frequency higher than the first clock frequency. Furthermore, the memory processor may be hardwired and dedicated to performing operations in the storage elements of the memory block.

Description

technical field [0001] One or more embodiments disclosed within this specification relate to integrated circuits (ICs). More specifically, one or more embodiments relate to embedded memory and dedicated processor structures within ICs. Background technique [0002] In high-speed network applications, the ability to perform lookup operations quickly can be critical. For example, in order to process a package, one or more attributes of the package must generally be determined and used to perform a lookup operation. The result of the lookup operation can determine the processing that will be performed on the packet. A non-exhaustive list of attribute instances that can affect package processing can include package type, package ownership, and the like. Examples of packet processing operations may include, but are not limited to, determining a packet's next-hop address based on the packet's destination address, forwarding packets, routing packets, and filtering packets. Thes...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Slower lookup performance results in reduced bandwidth in network nodes

Slower lookup performance also increases the cost of the network node, since the delay caused by the lookup process may necessitate the inclusion of additional memory in the network node to avoid data overflow conditions

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