Dynamic Reference Frequency Setting for Memory Storage Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing USB devices face challenges in generating accurate reference frequencies due to the expense and inflexibility of crystal oscillator circuits, and the limitations of crystal-less oscillators in tracking frequencies from remote hosts, which can lead to inaccuracies and failure to meet specific test specifications.
Innovation Solution
A reference frequency setting method for a rewritable non-volatile memory storage apparatus that includes a register circuit and an oscillator module, allowing for the storage and updating of setting codes to generate reference frequencies based on input data, enabling flexible frequency tracking and adjustment to meet different test specifications without relying on crystal oscillators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a crystal oscillator circuit is used to generate accurate reference frequency, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the frequency setting function from the hardware oscillator circuit and relocates it to software/firmware stored in the memory module. The memory module stores multiple frequency setting codes that can be selectively applied, separating the frequency generation function from the oscillator hardware and enabling flexible software-based frequency control without modifying the physical circuit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the reference frequency parameter dynamically by loading different setting codes from the memory module into the register circuit. Instead of hardware modification, the system alters the frequency parameter through software control, allowing the same hardware to operate at multiple frequencies by simply changing the stored setting code.
2Manufacturing precision
If hardware components like e-fuse or trim pad are used to record frequency setting, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of repair and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the frequency setting from a static, one-time hardware configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable parameter. The memory module stores multiple frequency setting codes that can be selected and updated during operation or maintenance, allowing the system to adapt to different requirements without physical hardware changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a software copy of the frequency setting information in the memory module, replacing the physical hardware encoding. This digital copy can be easily modified, updated, or replaced without affecting the hardware components, enabling simple repairs and frequency adjustments through software updates.
3Device complexity
If crystal-less oscillator is used to reduce cost, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates when no remote host frequency is available for tracking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-storing multiple frequency setting codes in the memory module during manufacturing. These pre-prepared setting codes cover various frequency requirements, allowing the crystal-less oscillator to achieve accurate frequencies without real-time tracking by simply loading the appropriate pre-stored code.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the memory module serve multiple functions: it stores both data and frequency setting codes, and the register circuit can be configured for different frequency settings. This multi-functional approach allows the simple crystal-less oscillator to achieve multiple frequency accuracy levels by utilizing the versatile memory-stored setting codes.
Data Source
AI summary
A reference frequency setting method of a memory storage apparatus including the following steps is provided. A setting code is read from a memory module or a storage unit by a first signal transmission path and stored into a register circuit. The setting code includes a first setting information. Whether the data having a specific frequency is inputted is detected. If not, the setting code stored in the register circuit is read, such that an oscillator circuit module of the memory storage apparatus generates a first reference frequency based on the first setting information. If yes, the setting code stored in the register circuit is updated by a second signal transmission path, and the updated setting code is read, such that the oscillator circuit module generates a second reference frequency based on a second setting information. The updated setting code includes the second setting information.