Memory Module Error Logging via Active Device Interrupt
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Solution Overview
Problem
Volatile memory devices in electronic systems lack effective mechanisms for storing and managing error information, which can lead to data integrity issues and system instability when errors occur.
Innovation Solution
A memory module comprising dynamic random access memories (DRAMs), a controller, and an active device that detects errors, generates interrupts, and stores error information in a nonvolatile memory, allowing for error logging and correction or system shutdown as necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If volatile memory devices are used for high-speed data access, then data access speed is improved, but error information cannot be stored effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The memory system is segmented into two distinct parts: volatile memory (DRAM) for high-speed data access and non-volatile memory (ROM) for error information storage. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specialized function optimally without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
A controller acts as an intermediary between the volatile memory and non-volatile memory. The controller monitors errors in the volatile memory and transfers error information to the non-volatile memory, enabling reliable error storage while maintaining the high-speed performance of the volatile memory system.
2Reliability
If error detection is implemented in volatile memory, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The error storage function is extracted from the volatile memory system and placed in a separate non-volatile memory component. This extraction reduces the complexity of the volatile memory system while maintaining comprehensive error detection and storage capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-volatile memory serves multiple functions: it stores error information, provides permanent record-keeping, and maintains system reliability. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by consolidating multiple requirements into a single component.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory module includes; dynamic random access memories (DRAMs), a controller configured to control operation of the DRAMs, and an active device configured, in response to detection of an error occurring in at least one of the DRAMs, to generate an interrupt and store error information corresponding to the error.