ECC Decoder Fast-Path Architecture for Low-Latency Error Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current error correction technologies in memory systems face challenges in achieving low latency and efficient error correction, particularly in handling single and multi-errors during data transmission and storage, which can lead to delays and inaccuracies in data retrieval.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves an ECC decoder with a syndrome calculation block, single-error and multi-error decoding logic circuits, and a path controller that enables non-sequential output of corrected data, utilizing a fast path controller, Key Equation Solver (KES) block, Chien-search and Errata-Evaluator (CSEE) block, and an uncorrectable error detector to correct errors efficiently, allowing for out-of-order multi-error decoding and reducing latency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional sequential ECC decoding is used, then error correction accuracy is maintained, but decoding latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ECC decoder is segmented into multiple independent decoding paths: a fast path for single-error correction and a normal path for multi-error correction. Each path has dedicated logic circuits that can operate independently and simultaneously, allowing the system to process different types of errors in parallel without interfering with each other, thus reducing overall decoding latency while maintaining correction accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The decoder dynamically selects between different decoding paths based on the syndrome calculation results. The control logic automatically routes the decoding task to the appropriate path (fast path for single errors, normal path for multiple errors), enabling adaptive response that optimizes both speed and accuracy based on the actual error condition detected in the data
2Speed
If fast path decoding is used for single errors, then decoding speed increases, but multi-error correction capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The syndrome calculation block serves as an intermediary that analyzes the error pattern and determines the appropriate decoding path. Based on the syndrome values, it routes the data to either the fast path controller for single-error correction or the normal path controller for multi-error correction, ensuring that the most suitable correction method is applied while maintaining both speed and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The decoder dynamically adjusts its operation mode based on the detected error type. When single errors are detected, the fast path is activated for rapid correction; when multiple errors are detected, the system automatically switches to the normal path for comprehensive correction, thereby maintaining reliability across different error scenarios while maximizing speed when possible
3Loss of time
If parallel decoding paths are implemented, then latency is reduced, but control logic complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control logic is segmented into distinct control units for each decoding path: a fast path controller for single-error scenarios and a normal path controller for multi-error scenarios. Each controller is specialized and simplified in design, managing only its specific decoding path, which reduces the complexity burden on individual control units while enabling parallel operation to reduce latency
Data Source
AI summary
An ECC decoder includes a syndrome calculation block, a fast path controller, a KES block, a CSEE block, an UED, and a multiplexer. The KES block includes a plurality of KES-stages to calculate and output an error location/magnitude polynomial of a syndrome outputted from the syndrome calculation block. Each of a second to last KES-stages of the plurality of KES-stages receives the error location/magnitude polynomial from the previous KES-stage to output an error location/magnitude polynomial generated by an additional calculating operation. The additionally calculated error location/magnitude polynomial is not transmitted to the next KES-stage but directly outputted when an error location and an error magnitude are identified by the additionally calculated error location/magnitude polynomial.