Flash Controller Random Cache Read Timer Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Random cache read operations in flash memory systems are terminated prematurely, leading to decreased system performance due to the unknown timing and sequence of read commands, resulting in inefficiencies when new read commands are sent before completing the previous sequence.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a timer algorithm that allows random cache read operations to continue until the timer expires, even when the read command queue is empty, ensuring that the current sequence is completed before initiating new read operations, thereby optimizing the usage of cache read operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the controller terminates random cache read operations when the command queue is empty, then the system can quickly respond to new read commands, but the random cache read sequence is terminated prematurely before completing the previous sequence, decreasing system performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a timer mechanism that dynamically adjusts the termination condition of random cache read operations. Instead of a static termination rule based solely on command queue emptiness, the system now uses a time-based dynamic threshold. The timer allows the random cache read sequence to continue for a predetermined time period even when the command queue is empty, enabling the system to complete ongoing sequences before switching to new commands. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by allowing both quick response to new commands and completion of current sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The timer mechanism enables the random cache read operation to self-manage its execution duration. The system automatically determines when to terminate based on timer expiration rather than external intervention. This self-service approach allows the operation to continue independently for a predetermined time, ensuring completion of the current sequence before the controller responds to new read commands, thus improving overall system performance while maintaining responsiveness.
2Productivity
If the controller waits for additional read commands before terminating random cache read operations, then more commands can be executed in sequence, but the system performance decreases due to premature termination when the command queue is empty
Solution Approach 1:
The timer mechanism performs a preliminary action by establishing a predetermined time threshold before the random cache read operation needs to terminate. This pre-set time parameter allows the system to prepare for timely termination without continuously monitoring command queue status. The timer starts counting down from the predetermined time when the operation begins, enabling the system to automatically terminate after the appropriate duration even if no additional commands arrive, thus avoiding excessive waiting time while ensuring sufficient command execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The timer introduces a periodic time-based check mechanism that operates independently of command queue status. Instead of continuously waiting for new commands or immediately terminating upon queue emptiness, the system performs periodic time-based evaluations. The timer expires after a predetermined period, creating a rhythmic termination pattern that balances command execution with time efficiency. This periodic action allows the system to maintain productivity while minimizing time loss by terminating operations after a reasonable duration regardless of command availability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system are disclosed that monitor and control random cache read operations. Random cache read operation may occur until the expiration of a timer. Upon expiration of the timer, the current random cache read sequence is terminated and new received read commands will not use this sequence. A flash controller may either use a page read operation or initiate a new random cache read sequence.