Memory Controller Read Count Monitoring for Non-Volatile Memory
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Solution Overview
Problem
Frequent read operations in non-volatile memory can lead to read disturbance and reduced data storage accuracy, necessitating frequent refreshes that affect the memory's lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A data storage device with a memory controller that monitors read counts and copies frequently accessed data from non-volatile memory to a temporary storage device, reducing the load on the non-volatile memory and extending its operational life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If data is read repeatedly from non-volatile memory, then data access speed is maintained, but read disturbance occurs and memory lifetime is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a copy of frequently accessed data from non-volatile memory to a temporary storage device. When data is read from non-volatile memory and the read count exceeds a threshold, the controller copies this data to temporary storage. Subsequent reads are served from the temporary storage device, preventing further read disturbance to the non-volatile memory while maintaining fast access speeds.
2Reliability
If refresh operations are performed frequently on non-volatile memory, then data storage accuracy is maintained, but memory lifetime is affected
Solution Approach 1:
By copying frequently accessed data to temporary storage, the patent reduces the number of read operations on non-volatile memory. This indirectly reduces the need for refresh operations, as read disturbance is minimized. The temporary storage acts as a buffer that protects the non-volatile memory from excessive read cycles that would trigger refresh requirements.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If read count monitoring and data copying is implemented, then non-volatile memory lifetime is extended, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller monitors the read count of data in non-volatile memory. When the read count exceeds a predetermined threshold, the controller activates the copying operation to temporary storage. This feedback-based approach automatically manages memory protection without requiring complex external control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory controller performs self-service by autonomously monitoring its own memory access patterns and deciding when to copy data to temporary storage. The controller manages its own memory protection needs without requiring external intervention, simplifying the overall system architecture while extending memory lifetime.
Data Source
AI summary
An operating method of a memory controller includes steps of: configuring the memory controller to receive a read command and read at least one piece of first data stored in a non-volatile memory according to the received read command; configuring the memory controller to determine whether a read count of the at least one piece of first data is greater than a set value; and configuring the memory controller to copy and store the at least one piece of first data in a data temporary storage device when the read count of the at least one piece of first data is determined to be greater than the set value. A data storage device and another operating method are also provided.