Client DDR5 UDIMM timing margin analysis, debug and improvements at 5600Mbps

The evolution of memory subsystems in SoCs and processors is indeed a testament to the relentless pursuit of technological advancement in the field of memory controller design and validation. As frequencies increase, the challenges associated with maintaining JEDEC timing margins are significant, and this necessitates the development of innovative processes and methodologies by design and validation teams. Memory subsystems are intricately designed with various IP blocks which is instrumental in standardizing the messaging interface across different products. This standardization is not only crucial for the interoperability and reusability of IP but also plays a vital role in facilitating the operation at higher frequencies.Moreover, the complexities of dealing with various memory module flavors and ensuring optimum performance require validation tools that are tailored for memory controller, DDR bus, and DIMMs under test. Validation tools offer a collection of memory stress algorithms and debug assist functions that are essential for identifying and addressing the unique conditions that arise during validation. Such tools are central to overcoming the challenges of increased frequency operation without having to resort to impractical one-size-fits-all or individual timing settings for each DIMM, thus aligning with the stringent specifications set forth by industry standards. Discussed in this paper is one such unique condition encountered during validation. The settings and specifications shared could be used during future memory controller designs.