Memory Card Authentication Program Execution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage systems require users to pre-install authentication programs on host PCs to authenticate removable memory cards with security functions, which can be inconvenient due to different authentication programs used across various host PC environments.

Innovation Solution

A memory card with a nonvolatile memory and device controller that stores an authentication program at a specific area, allowing the program to be executable on the host and managing authentication information through a device descriptor, enabling easy authentication of the memory card with a security function.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If an authentication program is pre-installed on the host PC, then authentication of the memory card can be performed, but the host PC environment must be prepared in advance and different authentication programs are needed for different host environments

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveauthentication convenienceVSAvoidhost environment preparation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of placing the authentication program on the host PC, the patent inverts the approach by storing the authentication program directly on the memory card in a bootable format. When the memory card is inserted, the host PC automatically executes the authentication program from the card without requiring pre-installation or environment preparation on the host.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The memory card becomes self-sufficient by containing its own authentication program and boot capability. The card autonomously provides the authentication functionality when inserted into the host, eliminating the need for the host to provide authentication software or configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If the authentication program is stored on the memory card, then no pre-installation on host PC is needed, but the memory card must support executable code on the host

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehost environment compatibilityVSAvoidmemory card functionality

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The memory card is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a storage medium and as a bootable device that can execute authentication programs directly on the host. This universal design allows the same card to provide authentication services across different host environments without modification.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The authentication program is prepared in advance and stored in a bootable format on the memory card during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the card is inserted into any compatible host, the authentication program is already ready to execute without requiring any setup or configuration on the host side.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9678760B2Memory card and storage system having authentication program and method for operating thereof

Publication Date: 2017.06.13 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A memory card includes a nonvolatile memory and a device controller. The nonvolatile memory stores data. The device controller divides the nonvolatile memory into a plurality of logical units and stores an authentication program at a partial area the plurality of logical units. When connected with a host, the device controller enables the authentication program to be executable on the host.