Graceful shutdown with asynchronous DRAM refresh of non-volatile dual in-line memory module

Abstract

A graceful shutdown of a computer system is initiated by sending a command to an asynchronous dynamic random access memory refresh (ADR) trigger device to assert an ADR trigger. Responsive to the command, the ADR trigger device asserts the ADR trigger to initiate an ADR of a non-volatile dual in-line memory module (NVDIMM) of the computer system. In response to the ADR trigger being asserted by the ADR trigger device, an ADR of the NVDIMM is performed before completing the graceful shutdown of the computer.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 359934, filed July 08, 2016, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. technical field

[0003] The present invention relates generally to computer systems. Background technique

[0004] A computer system may include one or more central processing units and one or more memory modules. A memory module includes one or more memory integrated circuits ("chips"). The memory chips may include volatile memory (eg, dynamic random access memory (DRAM)), non-volatile memory (eg, flash memory), or both. Volatile memory loses its contents when power to the computer system is interrupted. In contrast, non-volatile memory retains its contents even in the absence of system power. In general, volatile memory is faster than non-volatile memory and is therefore preferred as main memory for processes such as the operating system, application ...

Images