Patent attributes
A content addressable memory (CAM) device is provided that includes a primary cell array having at least one entry in which a plurality of CAM cells are connected to word lines and match lines, a redundant cell array having entries formed in the same structure as that of the entries in the primary cell array to substitute for a defective entry including one or more defective CAM cells in the primary cell array, an encoder for receiving a match signal from an entry in the CAM array block having data matching search data to generate final entry information, and an entry controlling circuit for determining whether each entry in the CAM array block is used to generate the final entry information at the encoder, and inhibiting a signal applied from a match line of the defective entry from participating in generating the final entry information at the encoder.
