Memory Module Connector With Auxiliary Power Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional memory modules require constant power to retain data, leading to inefficiencies in system startup times and reliability during power loss, especially in high-DIMM count servers where external cabling is cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A memory module connector that supplies an auxiliary voltage through a latch, allowing for efficient voltage conversion and power backup using a higher voltage (e.g., 12V) to non-volatile memory structures, such as NAND flash or NV-DIMMs, which retain data even without steady power, and includes a super capacitor for DRAM backup during power loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional memory modules use volatile DRAM chips requiring constant power, then data retention is achieved during powered-on state, but system startup time increases and reliability decreases during power loss
Solution Approach 1:
The memory module is segmented into two distinct memory types: volatile DRAM chips for high-speed temporary storage and non-volatile memory chips (NAND flash or NV-DIMMs) for persistent storage. This segmentation allows the system to separate functions requiring speed from those requiring persistence, enabling faster startup by loading only essential data into DRAM while maintaining reliability through the non-volatile portion.
Solution Approach 2:
A super capacitor is introduced as an intermediary energy storage device between the auxiliary power source and the DRAM chips. This super capacitor provides immediate backup power during power loss events, maintaining DRAM operation long enough to save critical data to non-volatile memory, thereby enhancing reliability without requiring constant external power.
2Reliability
If auxiliary power cabling is added to provide power to persistent memory structures, then data retention capability is improved, but device complexity and cabling requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary power connection is merged with the existing latch mechanism of the memory module connector. The latch, which already mechanically secures the memory module to the socket, is modified to simultaneously provide electrical contact for auxiliary power delivery. This combining of mechanical and electrical functions eliminates the need for separate power cabling, reducing device complexity while maintaining persistent storage capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is given multiple functions: it continues to provide mechanical retention of the memory module while simultaneously serving as an electrical conduit for auxiliary power delivery to the non-volatile memory structures. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components and connections required in the system.
3Use of energy by moving object
If higher voltage (e.g., 12V) is supplied to non-volatile memory structures for efficient power conversion, then power efficiency is improved, but electrical safety requirements and design complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the voltage parameter supplied to different memory types: non-volatile memory structures (NAND flash or NV-DIMMs) receive higher voltage (e.g., 12V) for efficient operation and power conversion, while DRAM chips receive standard low voltage. This parameter differentiation optimizes power efficiency for each memory type according to its specific electrical characteristics and operational requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a socket that receives a memory module that includes a card having card edge voltage pads along the lower card edge, auxiliary voltage pads along at least one of the vertical card edges, and one or more persistent, solid-state memory chips on one or both card faces. A latch pivotally coupled to the socket is movable between a latched position and an unlatched position. The latch includes electrical latch contacts positioned for being engaged with the auxiliary voltage pads when that latch is in the latched position and being disengaged from the auxiliary voltage pads when the latch is in the unlatched position. The electrical latch contacts may provide a different voltage to the auxiliary voltage pads than the socket provides to the card edge voltage pads along the lower card edge.