Personalization Data Integration in Nonvolatile Memory

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-organizing personalization data into a substitution table during the image generation phase, before the actual personalization process. The static image is prepared with placeholder positions for all personalization data fields, and the substitution table maps each field's position and length. This allows the personalization process to simply perform direct data replacement without complex memory management during operation, significantly speeding up the personalization process while reducing runtime complexity.

The patent uses real physical test integrated circuits from the production batch to generate test data images, creating accurate copies of the actual production conditions. Instead of using simulators that may not perfectly replicate hardware behavior, the method programs actual test chips with test personalization data and reads back the results. This ensures that the generated static images and substitution tables accurately reflect the true behavior of production integrated circuits, maintaining high reliability while still allowing iterative testing and validation.

The patent merges the personalization data storage with the existing operating system image structure. Instead of creating separate dedicated memory areas for personalization data, the method integrates personalization fields directly into the static image at specific positions within the existing memory layout. The substitution table tracks the positions and lengths of these embedded personalization fields, allowing them to be filled during the personalization process without requiring additional memory space or separate management routines. This approach maintains ease of operation through systematic organization while avoiding extra memory consumption.