Memory module with local synchronization and method of operation

Abstract

A memory module is operable in a memory system with a memory controller. The memory module comprises a module control device to receive command signals and a system clock from the memory controller and to output a module clock, module C/A signals and data buffer control signals. The module C/A signals are provided to memory devices organized in one or more ranks, while the data buffer control signals, together with the module clock, are provided to a plurality of buffer circuits corresponding to respective groups of memory devices and are used to control data paths in the buffer circuits. The plurality of buffer circuits include clock regeneration circuits to regenerate clock signals with programmable delays from the module clock. The regenerated clock signals are provided to respective groups of memory devices so as to locally sync the buffer circuits with respective groups of memory devices.