Multi-Port Memory Shared Function Cross-Port Enumeration
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-port memory devices, host devices connected to different ports cannot communicate or share resources effectively, limiting their ability to leverage features available over PCIe bus interfaces, as PCIe enumeration does not cross port boundaries, preventing identification of other ports and establishment of communication sessions for resource sharing.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a shared function in the memory device that enables a host device connected to one port to identify and enumerate another port, establishing a virtual connection for data sharing, resource allocation, and command queue management without a separate PCIe connection, using components like a configuration register and shared function component to manage cross-port functionalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If PCIe enumeration is used for each port, then each host device can identify its connected port, but host devices cannot identify or enumerate other ports of the memory device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the enumeration capabilities across multiple ports by implementing a shared function that allows host devices to enumerate not only their directly connected port but also other ports of the memory device through a unified enumeration process, eliminating the need for separate enumeration mechanisms for each port
Solution Approach 2:
The shared function implemented in the memory device provides multi-functional capability, enabling it to serve as both a storage device and an enumeration bridge that allows host devices to discover and identify multiple ports and their connected host devices through a single enumeration interface
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate PCIe connections are provided for communication between host devices, then resource sharing is enabled, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device acts as an intermediary between host devices connected to different ports, providing a shared function that enables direct communication and resource sharing between host devices through the memory device's internal routing, eliminating the need for external PCIe connections between host devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple communication paths through a shared function that allows host devices to access resources on different ports through a unified communication interface, merging what would otherwise require separate PCIe connection structures
3Device complexity
If host devices are isolated to their respective ports, then port management is simplified, but communication and resource sharing between host devices is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The shared function implements dynamic port management where the memory device can adaptively route communication between different ports based on the host devices' needs, allowing the system to switch between isolated and connected modes as required without complex manual configuration
Data Source
AI summary
Implementations described herein relate to a shared function for a multi-port memory device. In some implementations, a memory device may include a first port, a second port, and one or more components configured to manage a shared function of the memory device. The shared function of the memory device may enable a host device that is connected to the first port of the memory device to identify and enumerate the second port of the memory device. In some implementations, the shared function of the memory device may establish a virtual connection between the first port and the second port, and may enable the host device that is connected to the first port of the memory device to share a resource or a function with another host device that is connected to the second port of the memory device.