Patent attributes
NAND architecture non-volatile content addressable (CAM) memory devices and methods are described that allows for high density, low cost CAM devices. In addition, the NAND architecture non-volatile CAM memory operates with reduced power consumption characteristics for low power and portable applications. In one NAND architecture non-volatile CAM memory embodiment a wired NOR match line array is utilized. In another embodiment a NAND match line array is shown. In yet other embodiments, hierarchal addressing, hash addressing, tree search and algorithmic/hardware engine based search is detailed utilizing both conventional NAND architecture non-volatile Flash memory arrays and dedicated NAND architecture CAM arrays utilizing wired NOR and wired NAND match lines.