Nonvolatile Memory Boot Partition Segmentation for Fast Startup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional nonvolatile memory systems with NAND-type flash memory require longer initialization times due to the creation of a logical-physical address conversion table, leading to delayed startup times when reading the boot code after power-on.
Innovation Solution
A nonvolatile memory device with a controller that allows for a first state where the boot partition can be accessed immediately after power-on and a second state for accessing other partitions, using a boot code address conversion table to facilitate early data reading by designating a logical address that corresponds to a physical address, enabling rapid startup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a logical-physical address conversion table is created for full initialization of the nonvolatile memory device, then data access reliability is improved, but system startup time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the memory device into two operational states: a first state where only the boot partition is accessible immediately after power-on, and a second state where all partitions become accessible after full initialization. This segmentation allows the system to provide limited but functional access during startup while completing full initialization in the background, thereby resolving the contradiction between immediate access needs and complete initialization requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by preparing a boot partition that can be accessed immediately upon power-on, before the complete logical-physical address conversion table is ready. The boot code is pre-positioned in a accessible location, allowing the system to begin execution while the remainder of the memory device completes its initialization process subsequently.
2Measurement precision
If the nonvolatile memory device waits for full initialization before allowing data reading, then data access accuracy is improved, but boot code reading speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different access characteristics to different regions of the memory device. The boot partition is configured with immediate read accessibility and simplified address mapping, while other partitions require full initialization. This localized differentiation allows boot code reading to proceed at high speed without compromising the integrity and accuracy of data access in the fully initialized regions.
3Speed
If a simplified address conversion method is used for fast boot, then startup speed is improved, but address mapping precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic address conversion system that adapts to the operational state of the memory device. In the first state (immediate access), a simplified address conversion method is used for the boot partition, enabling fast startup. In the second state (full initialization), the complete logical-physical address conversion table is established, providing precise address mapping for all partitions. The system dynamically transitions between these conversion methods based on initialization progress.
Data Source
AI summary
A nonvolatile storage device includes a controller and a nonvolatile memory. The controller has: a logical-physical address conversion part for converting a logical address designated by a host device into a physical address; and a boot code address conversion part for converting boot code address information designated by the host device into a physical address. After the power-on and before the logical-physical address conversion part becomes usable, a boot code is read from a part of region which can be accessed by designating a logical address from the host device by designating the boot code address information from the outside. Thus, it is possible to rapidly start the nonvolatile memory system after the power-on. In the state where the logical-physical address conversion part can be used, data-reading and data-writing are carried out by designating a logical address from the host device.