Memory Module Unit ID Programming for Faster Boot Initialization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing memory devices require reassignment of unit IDs each time power is turned on, leading to increased boot times due to soft setting methods.

Innovation Solution

A storage device that permanently stores a unique identification (ID) for each memory device using a one-time programmable (OTP) mode, allowing the ID to be temporarily stored in a mode register and then programmed into an ID storage region.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If soft setting method is used to assign IDs to memory devices, then the system can be flexible and adaptable, but the boot time increases due to repeated ID assignment upon power cycling

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveID assignment flexibilityVSAvoidboot time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-assigning unique IDs to each memory device and storing them in the mode register before the system needs to access them. This preliminary ID assignment eliminates the need for repeated ID distribution during boot-up, thereby reducing boot time while maintaining the flexibility of soft setting methodology

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses copying by storing the unique ID in both the mode register (for immediate access) and permanently in the ID storage region (for persistence). This dual-storage approach allows the system to quickly access ID information without reassigning it during each power cycle, effectively copying the ID data to multiple locations for different purposes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If soft setting method is used for ID assignment, then the system can dynamically configure memory devices, but the ID assignment process must be repeated each time power is turned on

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedynamic configuration capabilityVSAvoidinitialization speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The unique ID is preliminarily assigned to each memory device and stored in the mode register during manufacturing or initial setup. This preliminary action ensures that the ID is already available when the system powers on, eliminating the need for repeated ID assignment processes and significantly improving initialization speed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

Each memory device contains its own unique ID in the mode register, allowing it to self-identify without requiring external assignment during initialization. This self-service capability enables the memory device to immediately participate in system operations upon power-up, enhancing overall productivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12572456B2Memory module including memory devices to which unit ID is assigned and storage device including the same

Publication Date: 2026.03.10 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A method of operating a memory configured to communicate with a memory controller, the method includes: temporarily storing a unique identification (ID) for each of a plurality of memory devices included in the memory to each of the plurality of memory devices; selecting a target memory device from among the plurality of memory devices; and permanently or substantially permanently programming, in the target memory device, a unique ID corresponding to the target memory device.