Device speeds searches as wide as 576 bits

Performing as many as 100 million database look-ups/sec, Integrated Device Technology's full-ternary search accelerators support searches as wide as 576 bits (Picture). The device also enables dynamic control of power consumption through the use of context databases. Power consumption in ternary devices depends on how many of the ternary cells a device is searching. By storing several databases on one device or by breaking databases into several pieces and determining which database stores an entry—by using a hashing algorithm, for example—you need to activate only a portion of the ternary cells, reducing power usage. The context database eliminates the need to include hash bits in a look-up table and allows only the relevant databases to consume power. The device also has a reissue feature to reduce the number of clock cycles associated with data re-entry during multiple database look-ups and enables searches at sustained maximum speed.

Both the 32×72- and 64×72-bit configurations are in volume production and cost $60 and $105 (100,000), respectively. A 128×72-bit configuration, scheduled to be available for sampling in the first quarter of 2002, will operate at 133 million look-ups/sec and will cost $225 (100,000).

Integrated Device Technology, 1-800-345-7015, www.idt.com.