Patent ID: 7139866
Filing Date: 2006-11-21
Classification: G11C

Abstract:
1. A content addressable memory, comprising: a plurality of memory storage locations, each having an associated indicator for indicating, during a search operation of all words in said plurality of memory storage locations, that the memory storage location is available for data storage and an associated match line for indicating, during said search operation, if a search word matches a word stored in an associated memory storage location, and a circuit operating such that if said search word does not match a word stored in any of said plurality of memory storage locations, said search word is written to a highest priority memory storage location which is indicated as available for data storage; and a priority encoder circuit having a plurality of inputs coupled to receive signals from said indicators and match lines, said priority encoder being operable in a first mode to indicate the address of a highest priority match on said match lines and in a second mode to indicate the highest priority memory storage location available for data storage.