Techniques to achieve area reduction through co-optimizing logic core blocks and memory redundancies

Abstract

Techniques are disclosed for achieving size reduction of embedded memory arrays through determining a spare-core layout. In an embodiment, input parameters comprising global process parameters are combined with design characteristics to compute yield values corresponding to potential redundancy configurations for a die. Resulting yields may be compared to determine which redundancy configuration is suitable to maintain a particular yield. A die configured with one or more spare cores (with no redundant memory therein) results in a yield which is equivalent to, or exceeds, the yield of a die with conventional memory redundancies. In some example cases, memory redundancy is eliminated from cores. Another embodiment provides a semiconductor structure having including an array of redundant cores, each including a composition of memory arrays and logic structures, wherein at least one of the memory arrays of each redundant core is implemented without at least one of row redundancy and column redundancy.