Built in self repair for embedded high density SRAM

TLDR

Increasing embedded memory density reduces manufacturing yields, and BIST is required for effective testing of limited‑access, at‑speed circuits. The paper proposes extending BIST to diagnose and repair using redundant components. The method uses redundant columns and associated algorithms to autonomously repair defective circuitry without external stimulus, such as laser repair. Implementation shows negligible timing penalties and reasonable area overhead.

Abstract

As the density of embedded memory increases, manufacturing yields of integrated circuits can reach unacceptable limits. Normal memory testing operations require BIST to effectively deal with problems such as limited access and "at speed" testing. In this paper we describe a novel methodology that extends the BIST concept to diagnosis and repair utilizing redundant components. We describe an application using redundant columns and accompanying algorithms. It allows for the autonomous repair of defective circuitry without external stimulus (e.g. laser repair). The method has been implemented with negligible timing penalties and reasonable area overhead.