Memory Controller Temperature Management During Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
The optimization of set-up/hold time parameters for memory devices during training operations may not be suitable for normal operations due to temperature differences between training and normal operation conditions, leading to distortion and shifts in commands and data.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a memory controller that compares the temperature of memory devices with a reference temperature, conducts a heating operation to equalize the temperature, and then performs training operations only when the temperature meets or exceeds the reference temperature, ensuring optimized parameters for normal operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If training operation is conducted to optimize set-up/hold time parameters, then parameter optimization is achieved, but temperature difference between training and normal operation causes distortion and shift in commands and data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temperature parameter by conducting a heating operation before training to raise the memory device temperature to match normal operation conditions. This ensures that the set-up/hold time parameters optimized during training reflect actual normal operation temperature characteristics, eliminating distortion and shift issues caused by temperature differences.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs a heating operation as a preliminary action before conducting the training operation. This preliminary heating ensures that the memory device reaches the target temperature prior to parameter optimization, so that the optimized parameters are valid for normal operation conditions rather than low-temperature training conditions.
2Reliability
If heating operation is conducted to equalize temperature, then temperature matching is achieved, but additional time and energy consumption occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements temperature detection and feedback control during the heating operation. The memory controller detects the actual temperature of the memory device and compares it with the target temperature, adjusting the heating operation accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures temperature matching is achieved efficiently with minimal additional time and energy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial heating action only when necessary, based on detected temperature conditions. Rather than continuously heating, the system performs heating operations selectively when the temperature deviates from the target, reducing unnecessary time and energy consumption while still achieving adequate temperature matching.
3Temperature
If heating operation is conducted before training, then temperature condition is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service temperature control where the memory device itself performs the heating operation through its own internal mechanisms, such as self-refresh operations or internal clock operations that generate heat. This eliminates the need for external heating devices or complex temperature control hardware, reducing overall system complexity while still achieving the desired temperature condition.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a memory system, including a memory controller which controls at least one memory device included in the memory system, is disclosed. The method includes: comparing a temperature of at least one memory device included in the memory system with a reference temperature; conducting a heating operation on the at least one memory device in order to increase the temperature of the at least one memory device, based on the result of the comparing step; and controlling the operation on the at least one memory device until it is determined that the temperature of the at least one memory device is equal to or greater than the reference temperature.