Semiconductor Storage Device ECC Area Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional semiconductor storage devices with on-chip error checking/correction (ECC) functions face compatibility issues with existing systems due to inconsistent address mappings and storage positions of error correction codes in spare areas, requiring firmware changes to achieve compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A semiconductor storage device with an external controller that sets the storage area for error correction codes, allowing for flexible address information output to align with existing systems without modifying the system's specifications, thereby ensuring data compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If error correction codes are stored in a fixed spare area position, then the ECC function operates reliably, but compatibility with existing systems is compromised due to address mapping inconsistencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic configuration mechanism where the storage area for error correction codes can be flexibly set through external control signals. The page buffer/read circuit can dynamically adjust which spare area sectors store ECC data based on system requirements, transforming a static fixed-position storage system into a dynamic adaptable one that maintains both reliability and compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of storage area position from a fixed constant to a variable that can be configured externally. By allowing the start position and sector number of ECC storage areas to be set through control signals, the system can adapt its address mapping parameters to match different existing systems while maintaining reliable ECC functionality
2Device complexity
If the storage area for error correction codes is fixed in the spare area, then the device structure is simple, but firmware changes are required to achieve compatibility with existing systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary configuration mechanism between the fixed device structure and the external system requirements. Through control signals and configurable parameters, the device can mediate between its internal fixed ECC structure and external compatibility requirements, eliminating the need for firmware changes while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enhances the universality of the device by making the ECC storage area configurable through external control. The same physical device can adapt to different system requirements by changing its operational configuration, serving multiple system compatibility scenarios without requiring physical modifications or firmware changes
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor storage device and a memory system having the same. The semiconductor storage device includes a memory array, an error checking/correction (ECC) element, and a setting element. The ECC element stores generated error correction codes to a storage area. The setting element can set the storage area from the external.