Memory Controller Write Protection for Non-Volatile Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to effectively protect pre-set sub-directories and pre-stored files in rewritable non-volatile memory modules from accidental deletion or modification, as these files are crucial for the functionality of memory storage apparatuses in devices like digital cameras and smartphones.
Innovation Solution
A data protecting method is implemented in a memory controller and storage apparatus that configures logical block addresses to map to physical blocks, forming partitions with a file allocation table area, root directory area, and file area. This method checks if write commands match the content in file description blocks of sub-directories and files, transmitting a write failure signal if the data does not match, thereby preventing accidental deletion or modification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pre-stored files and sub-directories are made accessible for normal operations, then usability and functionality are improved, but risk of accidental deletion or modification increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different protection characteristics to different areas of the storage device. The file allocation table area and root directory area are marked as protected regions with special attributes, while other areas remain fully accessible. This allows normal operations on most files while preventing accidental modification of critical system files through localized protection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary protective measures by marking critical areas (file allocation table and root directory) with protected attributes before any write operations can occur. When a write command targets these protected areas, the system detects the conflict and blocks the operation, thereby preventing accidental deletion or modification in advance.
2Reliability
If write protection is implemented for critical areas, then data integrity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification and marking of critical areas during the write operation process. Before executing the write command, the memory controller checks whether the target address belongs to protected regions (file allocation table or root directory). This advance detection and classification mechanism simplifies the overall control logic by establishing clear rules for protected versus non-protected areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the memory controller responds to write commands by detecting whether the target area is protected. When a write operation targets a protected region, the system generates an appropriate response signal (such as a write failure indication) to feedback to the host, thereby controlling the write operation based on real-time detection of protected areas.
3Reliability
If verification of write commands is performed, then prevention of unauthorized modification is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage address space into different regions with different protection levels. By dividing the storage device into protected areas (file allocation table, root directory) and non-protected areas, the verification process becomes more efficient - the system only performs thorough verification for writes to protected regions, while allowing faster, less restrictive writes to other areas, thereby reducing overall processing time.
Data Source
AI summary
A data protecting method for protecting a sub-directory and at least one pre-stored file in a rewritable non-volatile memory module is provided. The method includes receiving a write command from a host system and determining whether a write address indicated by the write command is an address storing a file description block of the sub-directory. The method also includes, when the write address is the address storing a file description block of the sub-directory, determining whether a portion of data streams corresponding to the write command is the same as a corresponding content recorded in the file description block of the sub-directory. The method further includes, when the portion of data streams corresponding to the write command is not the same as the corresponding content recorded in the file description block of the sub-directory, transmitting a write failure signal to the host system.