Memory controller with programmable delay counter for tuning performance based on timing parameter of controlled memory storage device

Abstract

A memory controller circuit arrangement and method utilize a tuning circuit that controls the timing of memory control operations via one or more programmable delay counters. Each counter is programmed to cycle a selected number of clock cycles to delay performance of a memory control operation to meet a predetermined timing parameter for a memory storage device coupled to the controller. Through the use of programmable delay counters, a variety of memory storage devices having varying timing parameters may be supported by the same memory controller design. Moreover, the use of programmable delay counters permit a single path of execution in a memory controller state machine to support any number of timing parameter variations for a particular timing characteristic, as well as multiple timing characteristics.