Memory Controller Defective Word Line Detection

The patent applies preliminary action by performing defect detection on word lines before normal access operations. The controller detects defective word lines by monitoring read operations and identifying patterns of read failures, then registers these defective lines in advance. This allows the system to prevent future access to defective word lines, avoiding the need for time-consuming error correction during normal operations and thereby maintaining system responsiveness.

The patent implements self-service by enabling the memory system to automatically detect and identify defective word lines through its own read operations. The controller monitors read failures, analyzes patterns of errors, and autonomously registers defective word lines without requiring external intervention or complex error correction procedures. This self-diagnosis capability allows the system to maintain high reliability through accurate defect detection while preserving responsiveness by avoiding time-consuming error correction processes.

The patent employs feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring read operations and using the results to identify defective word lines. When read failures occur, the controller analyzes the error patterns and feeds this information back to update the defective word line registry. This continuous feedback loop enables the system to achieve accurate defect detection while minimizing the detection period, as the system adapts and learns from each read operation rather than requiring exhaustive analysis.