Memory Controller Automatic Command Processing Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flash memory cards face increased response time issues due to the growing capacity of buffer memory, which affects their ability to manage large-capacity data efficiently, necessitating a technology to reduce response time and improve write performance.
Innovation Solution
A memory controller with an automatic command processing unit that utilizes a cache table and empty-space table to determine data relevance and optimize write operations, allowing for consecutive storage of relevant data and efficient handling of read/write commands, thereby reducing response time and enhancing write performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the buffer memory capacity is increased to manage large-capacity data, then the data management capability is improved, but the response time with respect to host command increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the buffer memory into multiple regions (first buffer region, second buffer region, third buffer region) with different functions. The first buffer region stores data from the host, the second buffer region stores data from the flash memory device, and the third buffer region serves as a work area. This segmentation allows parallel operations in different regions, improving response time while maintaining large buffer capacity for data management.
2Quantity of substance
If additional software is added to manage increased buffer memory capacity, then the data management capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The memory controller automatically manages the buffer memory regions without requiring additional host software. The controller autonomously determines when to allocate the work area, when to perform merge operations, and how to manage data flow between regions. This self-service approach handles large buffer memory capacity while keeping the system simple, as the controller itself performs all management functions.
3Quantity of substance
If the buffer memory capacity is increased, then the data management capability is improved, but the write performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous write operations by maintaining a dedicated work area (third buffer region) that allows the controller to perform merge operations and data preparation without waiting for host commands or flash memory operations to complete. This continuity of useful action ensures that write performance remains high even with large buffer memory capacity, as the controller can continuously process and merge data in the background.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a memory controller configured to control a flash memory device. The memory controller includes: a buffer memory configured to store data to be written in the flash memory device; a buffer memory interface configured to control read and write operations of the buffer memory; and an automatic command processing unit configured to interpret a data command generated by a host hardware device.