Flash Memory Controller Initialization Without Flash Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data storage devices face the challenge of error sampling data being damaged during the initialization procedure, which is crucial for analyzing operational errors.
Innovation Solution
A data storage device with a controller and flash memory that prevents access to the memory during initialization by loading a debug code from an external device, executing both boot and debug codes to complete the initialization without accessing the flash memory, thereby avoiding damage to error sampling data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the controller accesses the flash memory during initialization procedure, then the initialization can be completed, but the error sampling data stored in the flash memory may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by loading the debug code from external device into the controller's memory before the initialization procedure begins. This allows the controller to execute the debug code during initialization without accessing the flash memory, thereby preventing damage to the error sampling data while still completing the initialization process successfully
2Reliability
If the controller loads debug code from external device during initialization, then the flash memory is protected from access, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing an external device as a mediator that provides the debug code to the controller during initialization. This external device serves as a temporary source of executable code, allowing the controller to initialize without accessing the flash memory. The external device acts as a bridge that enables data protection while maintaining initialization functionality
Data Source
AI summary
A data storage device includes a flash memory and a controller. The controller is coupled to the flash memory and includes a ROM which stores a boot code. In an initialization procedure of the data storage device, the controller does not access the flash memory and receives a debug code from an external device, and executes the boot code and the debug code to complete the initialization procedure.