Memory module with local synchronization and method of operation

Abstract

A memory module is operable in a computer system having a memory controller and a system bus and comprises memory devices organized in one or more ranks and in a plurality of groups, and circuits configurable to receive from the memory controller a system clock and input control and address (C/A) signals, and output registered C/A signals and buffer control signals. The memory module further comprises a plurality of buffer circuits. In response to the buffer control signals, each buffer circuit is configured to communicate first data/strobe signals with at least one memory device and to communicate second data/strobe signals with the memory controller. The buffer circuit includes at least one delay circuit configured to delay at least one signal of the first data/strobe signals based on a first delay and a second delay. A respective local clock signal has a respective phase relationship with the module clock signal and is output to a corresponding group of the memory devices that includes at least one corresponding memory device in each of the one or more ranks.