Method and apparatus for increasing interchip communications rates

摘要

An assembly is provided that includes an interposer having first and second substantially flat, opposed surfaces, and at least one speed critical signal line extending directly through the interposer from the first surface to the second surface. A first IC is coupled to the first surface of the interposer and has a first external connection mechanism coupled to the at least one speed critical signal line. A second IC is coupled to the second surface of the interposer and has a first external connection mechanism coupled to the at least one speed critical signal line. Preferably at least one non-speed critical signal line is provided within the interposer and is coupled to a second external connection mechanism of the first IC and/or the second IC for delivering non-speed critical signals thereto or for receiving such signals therefrom. A chip carrier having a cavity formed therein also may be provided wherein the second surface of the interposer is coupled to the chip carrier and the second IC is disposed within the cavity. One or more carrier signal lines may be provided within the chip carrier and coupled between the interposer and the second IC. The first and/or the second IC also may comprise control logic adapted to select a number of drivers within either IC that drive a particular signal line.