Flash Memory Weak Page Data Retention via Strong Page Error Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flash memory devices, such as NAND Flash, face data retention issues due to the weaker data retention ability of weak pages compared to strong pages, leading to incorrect data retrieval and the need for efficient error correction methods.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a data maintenance method that pairs weak pages with strong pages in flash memory, where each strong page includes error-correction information for the paired weak page, allowing for effective data correction when data from weak pages cannot be successfully read.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If weak pages are used to increase storage capacity, then storage density is improved, but data retention ability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces strong pages as intermediary elements that mediate between weak pages and error correction. Strong pages have better data retention characteristics and are used to store error correction information that protects data in weak pages, thus improving overall reliability without sacrificing storage capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary error correction coding to weak pages before data is stored, using strong pages to pre-store correction information. This preliminary action enables error correction to be performed during read operations, compensating for the weaker retention characteristics of weak pages
2Reliability
If error correction is applied to weak pages, then data reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the error correction system into two distinct parts: weak pages for data storage and strong pages for storing error correction information. This segmentation allows the system to apply error correction selectively and simplifies the overall architecture by separating data and correction functions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different qualities to different parts of the memory system: weak pages are optimized for storage capacity while strong pages are optimized for data retention and error correction. This local differentiation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently without unnecessary complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A data storage device includes a flash memory. The flash memory includes a plurality of weak pages and a plurality of strong pages, wherein each of the strong pages is paired with one of the weak pages, and each of the strong pages has error-correction information of the paired weak page.