Non-volatile Memory Initial Setting Data Reading Fail Column Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional non-volatile memory devices face issues with reading initial setting data stably due to the presence of fail columns, which can lead to errors in setting the operating environment.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for reading initial setting data from a memory cell array that includes detecting fail columns and storing data in normal columns, using an indicator to sense and provide main data to internal circuits, ensuring accurate setting of the operating environment by avoiding defective columns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If initial setting data is stored in the memory cell array without fail column detection, then the memory device can operate with simple initialization, but reading the initial setting data may be erroneous due to fail columns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting fail columns and determining their addresses before reading the initial setting data. The controller performs fail column detection in advance, stores the fail column addresses in a register, and uses this information to skip defective columns during the subsequent initial read operation. This ensures that the initial setting data is read from valid columns only, preventing reading errors while maintaining a relatively simple initialization process.
2Reliability
If fail column detection and avoidance mechanisms are implemented, then reading stability of initial setting data is improved, but the initialization process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a register as a mediator between the memory cell array and the controller logic. The fail column addresses are stored in this register, which acts as an intermediary data structure that the controller can reference during the initial read operation. This intermediary mechanism allows the controller to efficiently skip defective columns without requiring complex real-time detection logic during the actual data reading process, thus improving reliability while limiting the increase in controller complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A non-volatile memory device capable of stably setting its operating environment and a method of driving the non-volatile memory device are provided. The method includes providing power to the non-volatile memory device having a memory cell array that stores initial setting data for setting the operating environment of the non-volatile memory device. An initial read operation is performed on the memory cell array. The operating environment of the non-volatile memory device is set using the initial setting data that is read through the initial read operation. The initial setting data stored in the memory cell array includes main data having information about the operating environment to be set and an indicator corresponding to the main data for indicating a start and an end of the main data.