Memory System Virtual Extension Register Function Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current memory systems, such as SD cards, face challenges in extending functions without standardization, leading to difficulties in adding new features, compatibility issues with host controllers, and inefficient data transfer operations, particularly with multi-block transfers and short-length data handling.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a virtual extension register with a standard general information field allows for plug-and-play functionality, enabling flexible function extension by standardizing information for function drivers, supporting multi-function devices, and optimizing data transfer through dedicated commands and a data port mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a memory device adds various functions to impart added value, then the functionality and versatility of the device is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of integration with host controllers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extension register provides a universal interface mechanism that enables the memory device to support multiple functions through a standardized method. Host controllers can access and configure various functions (such as SDIO functions) through the extension register without requiring different interface mechanisms for each function type.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension register acts as an intermediary between the host controller and the extended functions. It provides a standardized interface that mediates the interaction between the host controller's general initialization means and the specific extended functions, allowing plug-and-play operation without requiring host software modifications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If extended functions are added without standardization, then the device can support new features, but compatibility issues with host controllers arise
Solution Approach 1:
The extension register establishes a universal standardized interface that enables both traditional memory functions and extended functions (such as SDIO) to operate through a common mechanism. This standardization ensures that host controllers can interact with extended functions using general initialization means, maintaining compatibility across different implementations.
3Reliability
If traditional read-modify-write operations are used for data transfer, then data integrity is maintained, but data transfer efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the initialization and configuration operations from the data transfer path. By using dedicated commands that directly access the extension register and data port, the system eliminates the need for repeated read-modify-write cycles, thereby improving data transfer efficiency while maintaining data integrity through the standardized interface.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a memory system, such as a SDIO card, includes a nonvolatile semiconductor memory device, a control section, a memory, an extended function section, and an extension register. The extended function section is controlled by the control section. A first command reads data from the extension register in units of given data lengths. A second command writes data to the extension register in units of given data lengths. A extension register includes a first area, and second area different from the first area, information configured to specify a type of the extended function and controllable driver, and address information indicating a place to which the extended function is assigned, the place being on the extension register, are recorded in the first area, and the second area includes the extended function.