Flash Memory Controller Delay Circuit for Data Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flash memory devices, such as NAND Flash, face limitations in maintenance time due to eMMC specifications, which restrict the ability to perform data preservation and maintenance tasks within the allotted busy time, making it difficult to maintain data integrity.
Innovation Solution
A data storage device with a controller and delay circuit that divides data sectors into sub-sectors and transmits them at predetermined intervals to extend the busy time, allowing for adequate data maintenance within the specified time limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If data sectors are transmitted immediately after reading, then transmission speed is improved, but maintenance time is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a data sector into multiple sub-data sectors and transmits them separately with intervals between transmissions. This segmentation allows the controller to perform maintenance tasks during the intervals, thus extending the effective maintenance time while still maintaining data transmission functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic transmission of sub-data sectors with predetermined time intervals between them. These periodic intervals create scheduled opportunities for the controller to perform maintenance tasks, effectively extending the maintenance window without compromising overall transmission efficiency.
2Duration of action of moving object
If data sectors are divided and transmitted at intervals, then maintenance time is extended, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller automatically determines when maintenance is needed and autonomously divides data sectors into sub-sectors for staggered transmission. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external control mechanisms or additional hardware, extending maintenance time while minimizing increases in device complexity.
3Reliability
If maintenance tasks are prioritized over immediate transmission, then data preservation is improved, but transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transmits only portions of data sectors (sub-data sectors) at a time with intervals, rather than transmitting complete sectors immediately. This partial action approach provides enough time for maintenance tasks while still achieving eventual complete data transmission, balancing reliability and productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
In one implementation, an electronic system includes a host and a data storage device. The data storage device includes a flash memory, a controller and a delay circuit. The controller is configured to receive a read command from the host, read a first data sector from the flash memory according to the read command, and produce a setting signal according to a maintenance time of the flash memory when the flash memory needs to be maintained. The delay circuit is configured to receive the setting signal from the controller, divide the first data sector into a plurality of first sub-data sectors according to the setting signal, and transmit at least one of the first sub-data sectors to the host at a predetermined time interval for extending a busy time of the controller.