Memory Module State Data Storage for Fast Power-Cycle Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mass storage memories face challenges in managing operational state data efficiently, leading to issues such as increased wear, slow re-initialization times, and power inefficiency due to reliance on volatile RAM, which results in data loss during power cycles and prolonged re-initialization processes.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a memory module controller that dynamically manages operational state data storage in both extended random access memory and non-volatile memory, allowing for quick restoration of operational state upon wake-up or power cycles by utilizing fast random access memory to store critical data and slower non-volatile memory for backup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If operational state data is stored only in volatile RAM, then fast access speed is achieved, but data loss occurs during power cycles and re-initialization time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines volatile RAM and non-volatile memory into a unified storage system. The controller dynamically manages data between these two memory types, allowing fast access to frequently used operational state data in RAM while maintaining data retention through non-volatile memory storage of the same or duplicate data.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by storing operational state data in non-volatile memory before power cycles occur. This ensures that when power is restored, the data is already available in a recoverable state, eliminating the need for complete re-initialization and reducing wake-up time.
2Reliability
If operational state data is stored in non-volatile memory, then data retention during power cycles is improved, but access speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the advantages of both volatile and non-volatile memory systems by creating a hybrid storage architecture. The controller intelligently manages data placement, keeping critical operational state data accessible in RAM while maintaining backup copies in non-volatile memory, thus achieving both fast access and data retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory controller acts as an intermediary between the host system and the combined memory system. It transparently handles data requests by determining whether to retrieve data from fast RAM or non-volatile memory, optimizing access speed without compromising data retention capabilities.
3Reliability
If operational state data is frequently written to non-volatile memory, then data retention is ensured, but wear on memory cells increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the treatment of different types of data. Frequently changing operational state data is stored in volatile RAM with infrequent writes to non-volatile memory, while static or less frequently changing data is maintained in non-volatile memory. This selective storage strategy reduces the number of write cycles to non-volatile memory, extending its lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the storage parameters based on data characteristics and system state. The controller adjusts which data resides in which memory type based on factors such as data volatility, access frequency, and memory wear levels, optimizing both data retention and memory durability.
4Use of energy by moving object
If volatile RAM is used for operational state data, then fast access and low power consumption during operation are achieved, but data is lost during power shutdown
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges volatile and non-volatile memory characteristics to create a system that exhibits both low power consumption during operation and data retention during shutdown. The volatile RAM component provides fast access and low standby power, while the non-volatile memory component ensures data persistence across power cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
Before power shutdown occurs, the system performs preliminary actions by saving critical operational state data from volatile RAM to non-volatile memory. This ensures that even though volatile RAM loses its contents during power loss, the essential data is preserved and can be quickly restored upon power recovery.
Data Source
AI summary
The specification and drawings present a new apparatus and method for managing/configuring by the memory module controller storing operational state data for operating the memory module controller into an extended random access memory comprised in a memory module and in a host system memory of a host device during various operational modes/conditions of the memory module and the host system memory. Essentially, the memory module controller operated as a master for the data transfers as described herein. The operational state data typically comprises state information, a logical to physical (L2P) mapping table and register settings.