Memory Device Two-Stage Emergency Storage for Data and Metadata
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Memory devices face challenges in efficiently managing emergency data storing operations during low battery or power loss conditions, particularly due to the inability to selectively perform emergency power fail (EPF) or forced quiescence (FQ) operations based on power loss notifications, leading to longer boot-up times and potential data loss.
Innovation Solution
The memory device is configured to detect power loss conditions and read a mode register bit to initiate a two-stage data storing operation, including an EPF operation to save data and a subsequent FQ operation to save metadata, using power from capacitors to complete both stages before power loss, thereby preventing longer boot-up times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If only EPF operation is performed to save data, then data is preserved, but metadata is lost requiring longer boot-up times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing both EPF and FQ operations during the power loss event itself, rather than waiting for normal shutdown procedures. The controller detects the power loss notification signal and immediately initiates the two-stage storing operation using residual capacitor power, saving both data and metadata before power is completely lost. This prevents the need for extended boot-up times to recover metadata.
2Reliability
If both EPF and FQ operations are performed sequentially, then data and metadata are saved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by performing only the necessary EPF and FQ operations during power loss events, rather than continuously. The controller checks for power loss notification signals and mode register bit settings before initiating the two-stage storing operation. This selective approach ensures that the additional power consumption occurs only when needed to prevent data loss, rather than during every normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic monitoring of power loss notification signals and mode register bits to determine when to execute the two-stage storing operation. The controller continuously monitors power conditions and only activates the additional FQ operation when a power loss event is detected, creating a periodic rather than continuous power consumption pattern that balances reliability with energy efficiency.
3Loss of time
If FQ operation is performed to save metadata, then boot-up time is reduced, but data loss risk increases without proper sequencing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the data protection process into two distinct sequential stages: first the EPF operation to save data, then the FQ operation to save metadata. The controller manages this sequencing through dedicated control logic that ensures the EPF operation completes before initiating FQ. This segmentation guarantees data safety in the first stage and boot-time optimization in the second stage, with each stage having a specific protective function.
Data Source
AI summary
Implementations described herein relate to a two-stage emergency data storing operation. In some implementations, a memory device may detect a power loss notification signal that indicates a power loss condition of the memory device. The memory device may read a mode register bit of the memory device that indicates to perform a data storing operation that includes a first data storing stage and a second data storing stage. The first data storing stage may include storing data associated with the memory device prior to the memory device experiencing a power loss, and the second data storing stage may include storing data and metadata associated with the memory device prior to the memory device experiencing the power loss. The memory device may initiate the data storing operation and may selectively acknowledge the power loss condition based on completing the first data storing stage or the second data storing stage.