Memory Repair During Program Execution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for repairing faulty memory locations in a memory require a separate operating mode, which can interrupt the normal operation of a computer and compromise the reliability of controlling technical devices.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows for the simultaneous detection and repair of faulty memory locations while a program for controlling a technical device is being executed, utilizing error-detecting and error-correcting codes, and 'margin read' methods, without requiring a separate operating mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate operating mode is used for detecting and repairing faulty memory locations, then the memory can be reliably checked and repaired, but the normal operation of the computer is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the memory repair function with the normal program execution by integrating error detection and correction operations into the existing program processing flow. The control unit performs margin read operations and error correction during regular operation cycles, combining what were previously separate functions into a unified operational mode that maintains both memory reliability and continuous system operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous memory monitoring and repair by performing error detection and correction operations during normal program execution without interrupting the computational workflow. The control unit continuously checks memory locations while processing programs, ensuring uninterrupted useful action in both memory maintenance and computational tasks.
2Measurement precision
If error-detecting and error-correcting codes are used to detect faulty memory locations, then the detection accuracy is improved, but the number of bits required for protecting memory locations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies margin read operations that read memory locations with slightly reduced read voltages to detect deteriorating memory cells. This localized quality check approach allows detection of faulty locations without requiring extensive protective coding across the entire memory, as the margin read technique selectively identifies problematic cells based on their reduced voltage margins rather than requiring redundant bits for all locations.
3Reliability
If the memory is checked continuously during program execution, then the operational reliability is improved, but the processing speed of the program is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic margin read operations at strategically selected intervals during program execution rather than continuous checking at every memory access. The control unit performs error detection at periodic checkpoints while allowing normal high-speed operation between checks, balancing reliability monitoring with processing speed by using periodic rather than continuous verification.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for repairing faulty memory locations of a memory while a program from the memory is being executed by a computer. The program controls a technical device. When the program is being executed, addresses of faulty memory locations in the memory and correct values of the faulty memory locations are detected. The program provides time periods for repairing the faulty memory locations. The time periods are selected such that the control of the technical device is not hindered. For the repair, the correct values are written to the faulty memory locations.