Method and apparatus for smoothing current transients in a content addressable memory (CAM) device with dummy searches

摘要

A content addressable memory (CAM) device ( 200 ) can include a control block ( 202 ) having a dummy control circuit ( 216 ). A dummy control circuit ( 216 ) can initiate dummy searches (or other operations) prior to and/or during actual searches to reduce overall supply current transients. Methods for initiating dummy searches are also disclosed.