Hibernation Method Protecting Flash Memory Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hibernation methods for computing systems often reduce the reliability of flash memory by frequently executing program-erase cycles, which can lower the data storage reliability due to the limited number of such cycles available over the serviceable lifetime of the memory.
Innovation Solution
A hibernation method that generates backup data and conversion addresses for non-volatile memory, storing the backup data in a hard disk drive instead of flash memory to minimize program-erase cycles in the flash memory, thereby extending its reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If backup data is stored in flash memory during hibernation, then hibernation functionality is achieved, but program-erase cycles increase reducing memory reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a hard disk drive as an intermediary storage device between the flash memory and the hibernation process. When hibernation is requested, the system detects flash memory addresses, converts them to hard disk drive addresses, and stores backup data on the hard disk drive instead of directly in flash memory. This intermediary approach allows hibernation to function while protecting the flash memory from excessive program-erase cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the storage function by dividing the backup data storage task between two different storage devices: flash memory (for active data) and hard disk drive (for hibernation backup data). This segmentation allows each storage device to be used for its optimal purpose, with the hard disk drive handling the wear-inducing hibernation writes while flash memory preserves its limited program-erase cycle life.
2Adaptability or versatility
If program-erase cycles are executed frequently in flash memory, then data can be updated, but the limited number of cycles reduces data storage reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The hard disk drive serves as an intermediary that absorbs the program-erase cycle burden. The system converts flash memory addresses to hard disk drive addresses and redirects backup data writes to the hard disk drive, allowing data updates to occur without degrading flash memory reliability.
3Speed
If flash memory is used for hibernation backup, then fast access is achieved, but the serviceable lifetime is reduced due to program-erase cycle limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage system into two parts with different characteristics: flash memory for fast access to active data, and hard disk drive for hibernation backup data. This segmentation allows the system to maintain fast access performance for operational data while extending the serviceable lifetime by protecting flash memory from hibernation-related wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The hard disk drive acts as an intermediary that takes on the hibernation backup function, preserving flash memory for its intended fast-access purpose. This separation ensures flash memory operates within its optimal lifecycle while still enabling hibernation functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A hibernation method of a computing system that includes generating backup data and write addresses according to at least a portion of data utilized by the computing system at a hibernation request, generating conversion addresses corresponding to a first non-volatile memory when the write addresses correspond to a second non-volatile memory, and storing the backup data in the first non-volatile memory according to either the write addresses or the conversion addresses.