Flash Memory Voltage Monitoring via Control Signal Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for monitoring word line voltage in flash memory are inconvenient as they require direct measurement with a testing probe, making it difficult to assess voltage stability and access speed during memory operation.
Innovation Solution
A voltage monitoring device that includes a system voltage detector, charge pump circuit, and data output unit, allowing for the monitoring of control signals to infer word line voltage, with a switch unit and special command generator to control signal output, enabling convenient and efficient monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a testing probe is used to directly measure the word line voltage, then the voltage monitoring accuracy is improved, but the operation convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a voltage monitoring device as an intermediary component that indirectly monitors the word line voltage through control signals from the charge pump circuit, eliminating the need for direct physical contact with the high-voltage word line using a testing probe. This mediator approach maintains measurement accuracy while significantly improving safety and operation convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical approach of direct voltage measurement with a testing probe with an electronic signal-based monitoring system. By substituting the mechanical measurement method with an electronic control signal analysis method, the system achieves the same monitoring goal without the operational inconveniences and safety risks of direct probe contact.
2Reliability
If the memory is kept running during voltage monitoring, then the voltage stability assessment is improved, but the testing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage monitoring device is integrated into the memory system itself, allowing the memory to monitor its own operating voltage conditions while running. The system uses its internal control signals and charge pump circuitry to perform self-diagnosis, eliminating the need for external testing equipment and complex test setups. This self-service approach maintains reliability assessment capability while reducing testing complexity.
3Loss of information
If multiple testing probes are used to monitor different voltages, then the monitoring completeness is improved, but the risk of incorrect mode switching increases
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage monitoring device is designed with multi-functionality to monitor multiple voltage levels and operational parameters through a single integrated system. By consolidating multiple monitoring functions into one device that analyzes control signals from the charge pump circuit, the system achieves comprehensive monitoring coverage without the coordination complexities and mode switching errors associated with multiple separate probes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates easy monitoring of control signals and output data, improving testing convenience and efficiency by eliminating the need for multiple probes and reducing the risk of incorrect mode switching during testing.
Implementation Method 1
the system voltage detector is employed for detecting a system voltage and thereby producing a control signal
Implementation Method 2
The charge pump circuit is coupled to the system voltage detector so as to produce a word line voltage according to the above-mentioned control signal
Data Source
AI summary
A memory and a voltage monitoring device thereof are provided. the voltage monitoring device of the memory includes a system voltage detector, a charge pump circuit and a data output unit. The system voltage detector is coupled to the charge pump circuit and the data output unit for detecting a system voltage and thereby producing control signals. The charge pump circuit can produce a word line voltage according to the above-mentioned control signals. The data output unit decides outputting the above-mentioned control signals or the output data of the memory according to a special command, wherein the control signals correspond to the word line voltages. Therefore, the control signals and the word line voltages may be easily monitored.