ECC Modification Patterning for Low-Latency Data Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network devices face challenges in maintaining data integrity due to the susceptibility of shrinking computing devices and memory structures to single event based errors, which can lead to increased complexity and latency when using error correcting codes (ECC) for error detection and correction.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a simplified system for generating and modifying error correction codes (ECC) by using an ECC modification pattern generator to compare original and modified data, allowing for overlapping protection domains without regenerating ECC for modified data, thus reducing complexity and latency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If error correcting code (ECC) is used for error detection and correction in network devices, then data integrity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the protection domain into multiple segments, allowing ECC to be applied independently to each segment rather than requiring comprehensive protection across the entire data path. This segmentation reduces the complexity of the circuitry while maintaining data integrity through distributed error correction capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial ECC protection by applying error correction codes only to specific critical portions of data rather than all data uniformly. This partial action approach reduces the overall complexity of the system while still providing adequate protection for the most vulnerable or important data elements.
2Reliability
If error correcting code (ECC) is used for error detection and correction in network devices, then data integrity is improved, but latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary ECC calculations and preparations in advance, so that when data needs to be processed or transmitted, the error correction is already partially or fully prepared. This preliminary action reduces the latency experienced during actual data processing operations while maintaining comprehensive error protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous ECC protection throughout the data processing pipeline, ensuring that error correction is an ongoing process rather than a discrete interruptive step. This continuity allows error detection and correction to occur seamlessly during normal data flow, minimizing latency while preserving data integrity.
3Reliability
If comprehensive ECC protection is applied to all data domains, then data integrity is improved, but processing performance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data processing system into multiple domains with different ECC protection levels, allowing high-performance processing in non-critical domains while maintaining strong error protection in critical domains. This selective segmentation optimizes overall system performance while preserving data integrity where most needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different qualities and levels of ECC protection to different local domains based on their specific requirements. Critical data domains receive comprehensive error correction while less critical domains use simplified or no ECC, creating a locally optimized system that maintains high overall performance while protecting data integrity in essential areas.
Data Source
AI summary
A device having a storage location for receiving an original data and a corresponding original error correction code (ECC) is provided. The device includes ECC modification pattern generator logic for comparing modified data and the original data for generating a pattern for modifying the original ECC and ECC modification logic for modifying the original ECC based on the pattern.