Flash Memory Wipe Initialization via Single Command
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Solution Overview
Problem
As the size of flash memory areas increases and the number of logical partitions or units increases, the time required for a full erase operation also increases, impairing the operating capabilities of flash-based storage devices, as conventional methods necessitate multiple erase commands for each logical partition.
Innovation Solution
A method for operating a data storage device that initializes all mapping information between logical and physical addresses using a single initialization command, allowing for a single full erase operation, thereby reducing the number of commands and time required for erasing the entire memory space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple erase commands are issued for each logical partition, then complete erasure of the flash memory area is achieved, but the time required for full erase operation increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual erase commands into a single full erase command that erases the entire flash memory area regardless of logical partition boundaries. Instead of issuing separate erase commands for each of the N logical partitions, the system issues one command that triggers a comprehensive erase operation across all physical regions, thereby reducing command overhead and total erase time while ensuring complete data erasure.
2Reliability
If multiple erase commands are issued for each logical partition, then thorough erasure is ensured, but the number of commands required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple erase operations into a single unified command structure. The full erase command consolidates what would otherwise require N separate commands (one for each logical partition) into one command, simplifying the control interface and reducing the complexity of erase operation management while maintaining complete erasure coverage across all flash memory regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The full erase command serves as a universal operation that functions across all logical partitions and physical regions simultaneously. Rather than requiring partition-specific erase commands, this single command type can erase any or all regions of the flash memory, providing a multi-functional solution that reduces the variety of commands needed and simplifies the overall system operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a data storage device includes: receiving a single wipe device initialization command from a host, and in response to the wipe device initialization command, executing a wipe device initialization operation that during a single time period initializes the entirety of a mapping table defining logical partitions dividing memory space provided by a physical region of the data storage device.