Memory Module Multiplexing for Controller Access Conflict Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
In systems with both volatile and non-volatile memory, failure to respond to external memory controller requests within specified time intervals can lead to unexpected system behavior or crashes due to the inability to manage concurrent access between local and external memory controllers.
Innovation Solution
A memory module with multiplexing circuitry that selectively connects memory banks to either the local or external controller, ensuring timely responses to external requests by isolating memory banks and using shadowing or backup modes to maintain data integrity, and incorporating control logic to manage bank connections and refresh operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If memory banks are connected to both local and external memory controllers simultaneously, then memory access availability is improved, but system reliability deteriorates due to concurrent access conflicts and failure to respond to external requests within specified time intervals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic connection switching between local and external memory controllers based on operational mode. The memory module can transition between modes (e.g., local-only mode, external-only mode, or dual-mode with selective connection) allowing the system to adapt the memory controller connections dynamically. This resolves the contradiction by enabling high availability when needed while preventing concurrent access conflicts that would reduce system stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides memory access functions into separate segments handled by different controllers. The local memory controller handles local CPU accesses while the external memory controller handles system bus accesses. By segmenting these functions and using mode-specific connection configurations, the system avoids concurrent access conflicts while maintaining high availability through proper mode selection.
2Reliability
If memory banks are isolated to respond to external requests, then response time reliability is improved, but memory access flexibility deteriorates due to restricted connection configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic mode switching to provide connection flexibility. The memory module can be configured in different operational modes (local mode, external mode, dual mode) allowing the system to adapt the connection topology dynamically. This enables the system to isolate memory banks for reliable external responses when needed while maintaining flexible access configurations when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory module is designed with multi-functionality to serve different access patterns. It can operate with local memory controller only, external memory controller only, or both simultaneously in coordinated modes. This universal design allows the same hardware to provide both reliable isolated responses and flexible concurrent access depending on the operational mode selected.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory module includes memory banks, a local memory controller to access data in the memory banks, and an interface to an external memory controller that is configured to access the memory module. Multiplexing circuitry selectively connects the memory banks to the local memory controller and to the interface to the external memory controller.