Flash Memory Frequency Setting Without Crystal Oscillator
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and inflexibility of using crystal oscillator circuits in USB devices for reference frequency calibration increase hardware costs and reduce competitiveness, as the frequency setting cannot be changed after activation.
Innovation Solution
Recording the calibration setting of the reference frequency in a firmware within a memory storage apparatus, allowing the oscillator circuit to generate the frequency based on stored setting codes in a flash memory module or storage unit, eliminating the need for a crystal oscillator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a crystal oscillator circuit is used to generate reference frequency, then frequency accuracy is improved, but hardware cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a software-based frequency setting code stored in flash memory to replace the crystal oscillator circuit. The setting code contains frequency calibration information that allows the oscillator to generate accurate reference frequencies without requiring expensive crystal hardware, thus achieving frequency accuracy through information copying rather than physical crystal components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical crystal oscillator circuit with an electronic/software-based system. Instead of using physical crystal resonators, the system uses a processor that reads frequency setting codes from flash memory and generates reference frequencies electronically, substituting mechanical components with electronic control mechanisms.
2Measurement precision
If frequency setting is recorded in hardware component (e-fuse or trim pad), then frequency calibration is achieved, but adaptability deteriorates because frequency cannot be changed after activation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the frequency setting dynamic by storing it in flash memory rather than fixed hardware components. The frequency setting code can be read and modified during device operation or reconfiguration, allowing the system to adapt frequency settings to different applications and conditions, thus achieving both calibration accuracy and frequency flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables parameter changes by storing frequency calibration data in a rewritable medium (flash memory). The frequency setting code can be updated, modified, or reprogrammed without changing the physical hardware, allowing the system to adjust frequency parameters according to different operational requirements while maintaining calibration accuracy.
3Stability of the object's composition
If hardware component is used for frequency recording, then frequency setting is fixed, but flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces flash memory as an intermediary between the fixed hardware and the frequency setting requirements. The frequency setting code is stored in flash memory, which acts as a flexible buffer that provides stable storage while allowing programmatic access and modification, thus mediating between stability and flexibility requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A reference frequency setting method of a flash memory storage apparatus is provided. The flash memory storage apparatus includes a flash memory module, a storage unit, and an oscillator circuit without a crystal. The reference frequency setting method includes following steps. Whether a setting code is stored in the flash memory module or the storage unit is determined, wherein the setting code includes information of a reference frequency. If the setting code is stored in the flash memory module, the setting code is read to allow the oscillator circuit to generate the reference frequency according to the setting code. A memory controller and a flash memory storage apparatus using the reference frequency setting method are also provided.