Both defects caused during semiconductor manufacturing and abnormal leakage current due to aging can result in memory read and write errors. In fact, in real-world applications, there have been instances where data becomes unreadable after a period of time following its initial write. Therefore, memory testing functions after powering on are crucial. As safety standards for automotive electronic chips continue to evolve, it is essential to ensure that memory operates reliably over prolonged use.
EZ-Monitor is a testing and repair IP for SRAM developed by iSTART-TEK. It ensures the memory lifecycle within SoCs and provides a function mode that enables memory testing immediately after powering on. In addition to supporting Soft Repair, it can also coexist with existing MBIST circuits. Soft Repair enhances the chip’s resilience and allows for real-time repair of faulty memory. Whether the customer’s original MBIST circuits come from iSTART-TEK or other providers, EZ-Monitor remains compatible, offering greater convenience and flexibility in customers’ overall applications.
The EZ-Monitor IP tests data retention capability through its Retention Test mode, enabling the detection of retention errors. It also performs critical memory retesting to identify defects that may have been missed during the chip probing stage.
In addition, the EZ-Monitor IP offers two retention test modes: Fixed Retention Time mode and Handshake mode. The operation interface is a simple Basic I/O interface. Users can activate the EZ-Monitor circuit by controlling the MEN signal, perform the retention test in the Handshake mode using the RET_state and RET_done signals, and finally, obtain the memory test results through the MGO signal.
The EZ-Monitor IP provides customers with a reliable and flexible solution, effectively increasing overall chip resilience and ensuring memory stability and reliability throughout the chip’s lifecycle. This not only enhances the chip’s performance but also significantly reduces risks caused by memory failures, offering customers’ products greater added value.
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