Memory Module Controller Block Windows Storage Mode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current memory module technologies, such as DIMMs, face limitations in efficiently managing block-level data access and parallel processing of read/write operations, particularly when transitioning between cache-line memory access and storage modes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a memory module controller that configures block windows and associated registers to allow direct block requests from the host operating system, enabling parallel execution of read and write operations across multiple cache lines within a block window, thereby facilitating storage mode access and improving data management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If cache-line memory interface is used for data access, then memory access speed is improved, but block-level data access efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The memory interface is segmented to support both cache-line level access and block-level access independently. The controller divides block-level operations into manageable units while maintaining the ability to access individual cache lines, allowing both access modes to coexist without interfering with each other's performance characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory interface dynamically switches between cache-line access mode and block-level access mode based on the operation requirements. The controller can adaptively select the appropriate access mode for each command, optimizing performance for the specific operation being performed while maintaining ease of operation for block-level data access.
2Device complexity
If sequential access to DIMM is used for cache line transfer, then simplicity of interface is improved, but parallel processing capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges sequential cache-line transfer capability with parallel block operation capability into a single unified interface. The controller combines multiple cache line transfers into a single block-level operation when appropriate, enabling parallel processing of multiple blocks while maintaining the simple sequential interface for cache line access.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory interface is designed with multi-functionality to handle both simple sequential cache-line transfers and complex parallel block operations. The same physical interface supports multiple operation modes, allowing the system to achieve parallel processing capability without adding separate dedicated interfaces, thus maintaining interface simplicity while enhancing productivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If storage mode is added to memory module, then data management capability is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The memory module controller is designed with universal functionality to handle both traditional memory operations and storage mode operations through the same hardware interface. The controller can operate in different modes (memory mode and storage mode) without requiring separate dedicated hardware paths, thereby improving data management capability while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically adapts its operation mode based on the type of access required. It can switch between memory mode (for cache-line access) and storage mode (for block-level access) seamlessly, allowing the system to gain enhanced data management capability without permanently increasing device complexity, as the additional functionality is activated only when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are an apparatus and method for using block windows configured in a memory module to provide block level access to memory chips in the memory module. A plurality of block windows are configured that map to addresses corresponding to the addressable locations in the memory chips. A read/write request is received indicating a requested read or write operation with respect to a target block window comprising one of the block windows. The requested read or write operation is performed with respect to the addresses that map to the target block window.