Memory Controller Voltage Discharge Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-volatile memory devices face challenges in managing voltage discharge during power-down or power-loss events, particularly due to limited time windows and voltage ranges, which can lead to data corruption and device malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
A memory controller with a voltage level detector and a sequencer that initiates and continues voltage discharge operations across different voltage ranges, utilizing a state machine and multiplexer to ensure a controlled and sequenced discharge, even at lower voltage levels, thereby extending the operational window for voltage discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If voltage discharge operations are performed during power-down or power-loss events, then circuit reliability is improved and data corruption is prevented, but the time window available for discharge operations is limited due to voltage range constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic controller that adapts its operation based on real-time voltage conditions. The controller transitions between different operational states (normal operation, power-down, power-loss) and adjusts discharge sequences dynamically according to the actual voltage level, thereby maximizing the usable time window for discharge operations while maintaining circuit reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters (discharge sequences, voltage thresholds, timing) based on the detected voltage conditions. By monitoring voltage levels and adjusting discharge parameters accordingly, the system extends the effective time window for safe discharge operations while ensuring reliability across varying voltage conditions.
2Device complexity
If a single controller manages voltage discharge operations, then device complexity is reduced, but the controller cannot operate across different voltage ranges with different operational characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control functionality into distinct operational modes or states (normal operation mode, power-down mode, power-loss mode) with specific discharge sequences for each. This segmentation allows a single controller to handle multiple voltage ranges by switching between predefined operational segments, maintaining low complexity while achieving high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal controller capable of performing multiple functions across different voltage ranges. By implementing a state machine that can execute different discharge sequences based on voltage conditions, the single controller achieves multi-functionality, managing both normal operation and emergency discharge scenarios without requiring separate dedicated controllers.
3Duration of action of moving object
If voltage discharge is performed quickly to extend the operational window, then the time window is extended, but the discharge sequence may not complete properly leading to data corruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares discharge sequences in advance for different voltage scenarios and pre-configures the controller with multiple discharge paths. When voltage drops occur, the controller immediately executes the pre-prepared appropriate sequence, extending the operational window by eliminating setup delays while ensuring data integrity through pre-validated discharge sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous voltage monitoring with feedback to the controller, which adjusts the discharge sequence execution in real-time. The feedback mechanism ensures that discharge operations proceed at optimal speeds while maintaining proper sequencing, thereby extending the operational window without compromising data integrity through real-time condition-based adjustments.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure may relate to a memory controller that may include a main controller to begin a power down of a non-volatile memory storage during a first time period, while operating in a first voltage range, wherein the main controller is to begin the power down of the non-volatile memory in response to an indication of a voltage level being below a predetermined threshold; and a sequencer to continue the power down of the memory storage during a second time period, while operating within a second voltage range lower than the first voltage range. In some embodiments, the sequencer may include a state machine to perform a discharge sequence, where the state machine includes a micro-action output to output a micro-action command to the memory storage based at least in part on a current state of the state machine. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.