MLC Flash Memory Programming Order Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In flash memory systems, MLC blocks tend to be reclaimed before they are full, leading to inefficient programming due to the slower upper page programming process, resulting in significant time wastage and potential for incomplete data storage.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where lower page programming precedes upper page programming in a specific order within MLC blocks, allowing for faster initial programming of lower pages and subsequent copying of data to unprogrammed word lines, thereby optimizing the use of faster programming capacity and reducing overall programming time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If upper page programming is performed before lower page programming in MLC blocks, then data can be stored in the block, but programming time is significantly increased due to the slower speed of upper page programming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by programming lower pages first before upper pages in MLC blocks. This ordering ensures that the faster programming operation is performed first, while still completing all necessary programming before the block is considered full. The lower page programming serves as a preliminary step that prepares the block for subsequent upper page programming, maximizing the use of faster programming capacity.
2Quantity of substance
If MLC blocks are programmed to full capacity, then storage capacity is maximized, but blocks are often reclaimed before full, resulting in wasted programming time and incomplete data storage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the programming parameter order by programming lower pages before upper pages. This parameter change exploits the difference in programming speeds between lower and upper pages, allowing the system to maximize storage capacity utilization while minimizing programming time. By adjusting the programming sequence parameter, the system achieves both full block utilization and improved productivity.
3Productivity
If lower page programming is performed first in MLC blocks, then programming speed is improved, but the programming order must be carefully managed to ensure complete data storage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the programming process into distinct phases: lower page programming phase and upper page programming phase. This segmentation allows the system to manage the programming order systematically, first completing all lower page programming operations and then proceeding to upper page programming. The segmentation simplifies the management complexity by creating clear, manageable stages in the programming process.
Data Source
AI summary
Certain MLC blocks that tend to be reclaimed before they are full may be programmed according to a programming scheme that programs lower pages first and programs upper pages later. This results in more lower page programming than upper page programming on average. Lower page programming is generally significantly faster than upper page programming so that more lower page programming (and less upper programming) reduces average programming time.