E-Fuse Configuration Data Storage in Flash Memory
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Solution Overview
Problem
Configuration data stored in electrical fuse (E-Fuse) form in flash memory devices is unreliable due to changes in the operating environment, process variations, read disturb, and coupling phenomena, leading to errors in reading operations.
Innovation Solution
The method involves storing configuration data in multiple strings of the E-Fuse block, with each string containing multiple memory cells configured to store one bit, and distributing these data across adjacent memory cells connected to one or multiple word lines in various formations, such as zigzag patterns, to enhance reliability and prevent back pattern effects and coupling phenomena.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If configuration data is stored in E-Fuse block using conventional methods, then storage is simple, but reading reliability deteriorates due to process variations, read disturb, and coupling phenomena
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration data is divided into multiple bits, with each bit stored in a separate string of the E-Fuse block. This segmentation isolates the storage of individual bits, preventing coupling phenomena between adjacent bits and reducing the impact of read disturb effects, thereby improving reading reliability while organizing the storage structure systematically
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from storing configuration data in a single linear array to a two-dimensional arrangement across multiple strings and word lines. Each bit is positioned at a specific intersection of string and word line, creating a spatial distribution that reduces coupling effects and enables more reliable reading operations
2Reliability
If configuration data is stored in multiple strings with distributed formation, then reading reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Configuration data is segmented into individual bits, with each bit assigned to a specific string. This segmentation allows for independent management and reading of each bit, improving data retrieval accuracy by isolating the effects of process variations and read disturb to individual strings rather than affecting the entire data set
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a predetermined storage pattern where configuration data bits are systematically distributed across multiple strings before any reading operations occur. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when reading operations are performed, the data is already positioned to minimize coupling phenomena and read disturb effects, thereby improving retrieval accuracy
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a method of storing configuration data regarding an operating environment of a flash memory device, which includes a memory cell array having an electrical fuse (E-Fuse) block for storing the configuration data. The method includes storing the configuration data in multiple strings of the E-Fuse block, each string including multiple memory cells configured to store one bit.