Phase Change Memory Code Protection During Solder Reflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
During the infrared reflow process, data stored in semiconductor devices, particularly phase change memories, can be modified, leading to errors in operation due to the solder reflow processes.
Innovation Solution
A method involving writing program code to a first non-volatile memory before the solder reflow process and copying it to a second non-volatile memory, such as a phase-change memory, after the process, with the option to delete the code from the first memory, utilizing a central processing unit and a processor to manage the data transfer through shared memory banks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If program code is stored in phase change memory during solder reflow, then storage capacity is utilized, but data accuracy deteriorates due to data modification during reflow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the memory storage function into two separate memory devices: a first non-volatile memory for storing program code before reflow, and a second non-volatile memory (phase change memory) for storing program code after reflow. This segmentation allows each memory to serve its specific purpose without the harmful effects of heat-induced data modification, resolving the contradiction between utilizing storage capacity and maintaining data accuracy during the solder reflow process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by copying the program code from the first non-volatile memory to the second non-volatile memory before the solder reflow process begins. This ensures that the phase change memory contains the correct program code before exposure to heat, and the system can then safely perform reflow without risking data corruption, thus maintaining both storage utilization and data accuracy.
2Reliability
If program code is copied from first non-volatile memory to second non-volatile memory after reflow, then data accuracy is maintained, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the copy operation before the solder reflow process rather than after. This preliminary copying action ensures that the phase change memory already contains the correct program code when the reflow begins, eliminating the need for post-reflow copying and data verification operations. Consequently, the system achieves data accuracy without the time penalty of post-reflow processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a continuous workflow where the first non-volatile memory serves as the source for copying to the second non-volatile memory before reflow. This continuous preparation ensures that the phase change memory is ready with correct data, allowing the solder reflow to proceed without interruptions for data transfer or verification, thus maintaining both data accuracy and processing efficiency.
3Reliability
If multiple memory banks are used for code storage and processing, then operational reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the memory system into distinct functional units: a first non-volatile memory for pre-reflow code storage, a second non-volatile memory (phase change memory) for post-reflow code storage, and optional shared memory banks for processing. This segmentation provides clear functional separation that improves operational reliability by ensuring code integrity through dedicated storage locations, while the modular structure helps manage device complexity through well-defined boundaries between components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functional memory banks that can serve multiple purposes: the first non-volatile memory stores code before reflow and can be read during processing, the second non-volatile memory stores code after reflow, and shared memory banks can be accessed by both the central processing unit and processor. This multi-functionality improves operational reliability through redundancy and data availability, while the universal access mechanisms help manage complexity by consolidating control logic.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Prevents data loss and ensures operational integrity by securely transferring and storing program code, maintaining data accuracy post-reflow.
Implementation Method 1
The solder reflow typically comprises IR reflow using an infrared lamp
Implementation Method 2
the second non-volatile memory is a phase-change memory
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor device comprises a first non-volatile memory configured to store program code and a processor configured to copy the program code from the first non-volatile memory to a second non-volatile memory after a solder reflow process. The processor typically copies the program code from the first non-volatile memory to the second non-volatile memory after the processor is completely booted.