Buffer Memory Prefetch Reading for Flash Storage Speed
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flash memories exhibit lower data input/output rates and delayed write and read operations due to their non-random access nature, necessitating the development of methods to enhance data reading efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method for reading data in a memory system that includes a buffer memory and a nonvolatile memory, where a prefetch reading operation is conducted if the requested data size exceeds a reference size, allowing data to be pre-fetched and stored in the buffer memory for subsequent transfer, thereby improving data reading rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If flash memory is used for high integration density and data storage, then data retention and storage capacity are improved, but data input/output rates and access speed deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A buffer memory is introduced as an intermediary component between the flash memory and the host system. The buffer memory temporarily stores data during transfer operations, allowing the flash memory to operate at its own speed while providing fast data access to the host. This mediator resolves the speed mismatch between high-capacity flash memory and high-speed host requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Data is pre-fetched from the flash memory into the buffer memory before the host actually needs it. By anticipating data transfer needs and performing preliminary data movement, the system reduces wait times and improves overall data input/output rates without compromising storage capacity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If buffer memory is used to enable random access operation, then access flexibility is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer memory is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as a temporary storage area for data transfer, enables random access operations, and provides a staging area for both read and write operations. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering diverse operational capabilities from a single component.
3Productivity
If prefetch reading operation is conducted for large data sizes, then data reading efficiency is improved, but buffer memory usage and potential data overwrite risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs prefetch reading by loading more data into the buffer memory than the host immediately requests. This excessive action ensures that subsequent data requests can be served from the buffer without waiting for additional flash memory operations, thereby improving reading efficiency. The buffer management logic ensures that this excessive loading does not cause data overwrite by properly tracking and managing buffer contents.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method for reading data in a memory system including a buffer memory and a nonvolatile memory, the method being comprised of: determining whether an input address in a read request is allocated to the buffer memory; determining whether a size of requested data is larger than a reference unless the input address is allocated to the buffer memory; and conducting a prefetch reading operation from the nonvolatile memory if the requested data size is larger than the reference.