Flexible Memory Array Regions for Data and ECC Metadata
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory systems face challenges in efficiently storing and managing metadata, such as error correction codes, which can lead to increased errors and wasted storage space, and existing high-density on-chip SRAM solutions are costly and prone to soft errors.
Innovation Solution
A memory array configuration that allows flexible allocation of sections for data and metadata storage, using partial array meta mode registers to optimize storage and transmit metadata through non-data channels, reducing the need for separate connections and high-density SRAM.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If high-density on-chip SRAM is used to store metadata, then metadata storage capability is improved, but system cost increases and soft errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the metadata storage function from the main memory array by dedicating specific portions (e.g., last 16 columns out of 512 columns) to store metadata such as ECCs. This separation allows metadata to be stored in the same memory technology without requiring high-density SRAM, thereby avoiding soft errors while maintaining storage capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory array is designed to serve multiple functions: storing both data and metadata within the same structure. By configuring certain portions for metadata storage, the same memory technology performs dual roles, eliminating the need for separate high-density SRAM and reducing system cost while maintaining reliability.
2Productivity
If separate connections are provided for metadata transmission, then metadata transmission capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the memory connections universal by enabling them to transmit both data and metadata. The same physical connections that carry data during write operations are used to carry metadata during read operations, eliminating the need for separate metadata connections and reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connections are designed to be dynamic in their function, switching between transmitting data and metadata based on operational mode. During write operations, connections transmit data; during read operations, the same connections transmit metadata, allowing flexible adaptation without increasing structural complexity.
3Productivity
If dedicated metadata storage portions are allocated, then metadata storage efficiency is improved, but usable storage space for data decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by allocating only a portion of the memory array (e.g., last 16 columns) for metadata storage while leaving the majority (e.g., first 496 columns) for data storage. This partial allocation achieves sufficient metadata storage efficiency without significantly impacting the usable storage space for data.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure provides systems, methods, and devices for memory systems that support metadata. In a first aspect, a method includes receiving, from a host, a message comprising instructions to configure a first portion of a memory array for storage of data and metadata and to configure a second portion of the memory array for storage of only data and configuring the memory array in accordance with the received message. Other aspects and features are also claimed and described.