Generic Command Descriptor for NAND Memory Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flash memory devices from different manufacturers require unique command sequences for operations like read, write, and erase, necessitating hardware modifications or reconfigurations in memory controllers to accommodate varying specifications.
Innovation Solution
A generic command descriptor system that includes option information for each segment of the command sequence, allowing the memory controller to generate and combine command sequences dynamically, eliminating the need for hardware modifications by using a template-based approach and chaining descriptors to accommodate diverse flash memory device requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hardware is modified or reconfigured to accommodate different flash memory device specifications, then compatibility with various manufacturers' devices is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a descriptor data structure that copies and represents the command sequence requirements of different flash memory devices in software, rather than physically modifying hardware for each device type. The descriptor contains all necessary configuration information (command sequences, timing parameters, address formats) that would otherwise require hardware reconfiguration, allowing software-level adaptation to different device specifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes hardware parameters dynamically through software by loading different descriptor configurations. Instead of physically reconfiguring hardware circuits, the system modifies operational parameters (command sequences, timing values, address formats) by loading appropriate descriptors into the memory controller, enabling adaptation to different flash memory devices without hardware changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hardware is modified to support different command sequences, then support for diverse flash memory operations is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal memory controller design that can handle diverse flash memory operations through a single hardware architecture. The descriptor-based configuration system allows one universal controller to support multiple command sequences and operation types by loading different descriptors, eliminating the need for specialized hardware variants for different device requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a generic command descriptor system is implemented, then operational flexibility and compatibility are improved, but initial system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the configuration information into discrete descriptor structures, each representing specific command sequence parameters. This segmentation allows the complex configuration data to be organized into manageable, modular units that can be independently processed and combined, reducing the cognitive and implementation complexity of handling overall system configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure includes systems and techniques relating to controlling memory devices with a generic command descriptor. In some implementations, an apparatus, systems, or methods can include a memory controller including an interface configured to connect with a NAND memory device and circuitry configured to receive a descriptor of a command sequence including multiple segments for managing the NAND memory device. The descriptor can include option information corresponding to each segment of the command sequence. The circuitry can also be configured to generate the command sequence for managing the NAND memory device based, at least in part, on the option information of the descriptor.