Memory Controller Data Conversion Unit for Threshold Voltage Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory controllers for semiconductor memory devices do not effectively improve data distribution characteristics in both row and column directions, leading to suboptimal threshold voltage distribution and reliability of stored data.
Innovation Solution
A memory controller with a data conversion unit that randomizes data and compares it with previously programmed data to determine if conversion is needed, using XOR operations and flag bits to generate conversion data with improved distribution characteristics in both directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data is stored directly without conversion, then device complexity is reduced, but data distribution characteristics and threshold voltage distribution are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing data conversion before storage. The data conversion unit converts incoming data into converted data with improved distribution characteristics before writing to the memory device, proactively addressing the data distribution problem rather than correcting it after storage. This preliminary processing ensures optimal threshold voltage distribution from the outset.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary component - the data conversion unit - that mediates between the host system and the memory device. This intermediary receives original data, converts it using XOR operations with reference data, and outputs converted data with improved statistical properties, thereby resolving the data distribution issue without requiring changes to either the host or memory device.
2Reliability
If data conversion is performed using XOR operations with reference data, then threshold voltage distribution is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary conversion of data before storage operations, so that when data is later retrieved, it can be quickly restored using the same XOR operation with the reference data. This upfront processing prevents the need for complex real-time conversions during critical read/write operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter representation of data by applying XOR transformations. The original data bits are transformed into converted data bits based on the reference data, effectively changing the statistical parameters (distribution characteristics) of the stored data while maintaining the ability to recover the original information through the inverse operation.
3Reliability
If data is randomized to improve distribution characteristics, then data distribution improves, but data recovery complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reference data acts as an intermediary key that enables deterministic conversion. Both the conversion process (original data XOR reference data) and the recovery process (converted data XOR reference data) use the same reference data, creating a symmetric system where the intermediary facilitates both transformation and reversal without increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the inversion principle by using the same XOR operation for both conversion and recovery. Since XOR is its own inverse (A XOR B XOR B = A), the system recovers original data by performing the same operation again, eliminating the need for separate complex decryption or reversal mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory controller controls an operation of a semiconductor memory device including a plurality of memory cells at a request of a host. The memory controller includes a data conversion unit. The data conversion unit converts first data from the host by comparing the first data with second data programmed previously.