On-Die Intra-Controller ECC Bandwidth Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory systems require the transmission of error correction code (ECC) bits out of the memory die, which occupies bandwidth needed for other auxiliary data, thereby limiting the system's data reliability, security, and integrity.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an intra-controller for ECC operations on-die, eliminating the need to transmit ECC bits out of the memory die, and utilizing the Extended Data Page (EDP) feature for simultaneous data transfer of auxiliary data, thereby optimizing bandwidth usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ECC bits are transmitted out of the memory die, then error correction capability is maintained, but bandwidth for auxiliary data is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the ECC operation from the external memory controller and places it within the memory die itself. The intra-controller on the memory die performs ECC operations locally, eliminating the need to transmit ECC bits externally. This extraction principle resolves the contradiction by keeping error correction functionality while removing the bandwidth consumption associated with external ECC bit transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary intra-controller within the memory die that mediates between the memory array and the external memory controller. This intra-controller handles ECC operations locally, acting as an intermediary that processes error correction without requiring external intervention. This mediator enables reliable error correction while preserving external bandwidth for auxiliary data transmission.
2Device complexity
If ECC operations are performed externally, then system architecture is simple, but data security and integrity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the memory system into distinct functional units: the memory array, the intra-controller on the memory die for ECC operations, and the external memory controller. This segmentation allows ECC operations to be performed locally within the memory die, enhancing data security and integrity by keeping sensitive operations within the secured memory environment while maintaining overall system functionality.
3Reliability
If bandwidth is allocated for ECC bit transmission, then error correction is reliable, but auxiliary data transfer is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts ECC bit transmission from the external communication channel and relocates it to internal processing on the memory die. By taking out the ECC transmission requirement from the external bandwidth pool, the system maintains reliable error correction while freeing up external bandwidth for auxiliary data transfers, thus resolving the productivity limitation.
Data Source
AI summary
An on-die controller can provide an error correction capability for data stored in an array of memory cells located on the same die as the on-die controller. The error correction capability provided by the on-die controller eliminates a need to transfer error correction code (ECC) data to an external controller that may have provided the error correction capability in lieu of the on-die controller, which can provide more channel bandwidth for other types of non-user data for further strengthening data reliability, security, integrity of the memory system.