Data preclassifier method and apparatus for content addressable memory (CAM) device

摘要

A content addressable memory (CAM) device ( 100 ) may include a CAM array ( 102 ), a CAM array access circuit ( 104 ), and a preclassifier circuit ( 106 ). A preclassifier circuit ( 106 ) may selectively modify portions of an input data value before such an input data value is applied to a CAM array ( 102 ). In particular embodiments, a preclassifier circuit ( 106 ) may compare a compare portion of an input data value to one or more ranges. If such a portion falls within a range, a preclassifier may substitute a compare portion with a range code value to form a modified input data value.