Memory Controller Sudden Power Off Debugging Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Memory systems face inefficiencies in utilizing storage space due to sudden power off events, which interrupt program operations and result in wasted storage capacity when dummy data is written instead of meaningful debugging information.
Innovation Solution
A memory system and method that stores debugging information in an open block during a sudden power off, allowing for efficient reconstruction of the environment during a rebuild operation by using this information instead of dummy data, thereby optimizing storage utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dummy data is written to open blocks after sudden power off, then the memory system can maintain operational stability, but storage space utilization deteriorates due to wasted capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of sudden power off events (which create open blocks that would normally be wasted) into a beneficial opportunity by storing debugging information in these open blocks. Instead of writing dummy data to waste space, the system writes valuable debugging information about the interrupted program operation, including system state data that can help diagnose and recover from the sudden power off event.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the open blocks serve multiple functions: they continue to function as storage blocks for debugging information while also serving as potential candidates for future data storage after being properly closed and formatted. This multi-functionality increases overall storage utilization by preventing the permanent waste of open blocks.
2Loss of substance
If debugging information is stored in open blocks, then storage utilization is improved, but system complexity increases due to additional information management requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the debugging information storage function with the existing open block management process. Instead of creating a separate complex system for debugging information storage, the solution integrates debugging data writing into the existing block closure and formatting operations, thereby improving storage utilization without proportionally increasing system complexity.
3Productivity
If the memory system writes debugging information during boot process, then recovery efficiency is improved after sudden power off, but processing time increases during boot
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions during the boot process by writing debugging information to open blocks before normal operations resume. This preliminary storage of diagnostic data enables faster recovery and diagnosis later, as the system has already captured the state information needed for recovery without needing to perform time-consuming analysis after the sudden power off event occurs.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a memory system and a method of operating the same. The memory system may include a memory device configured to store data; and a memory controller configured to control the memory device such that various operations including a program operation are performed in response to a request from a host, wherein the memory controller comprises: an internal memory configured to store system information; and a central processing unit (CPU) configured to control the memory device such that, when a sudden power off (SPO) occurs during the program operation of the memory device, debugging information related to system information is stored at a location in the memory device where the program operation is interrupted.