Register Data Backup Using Non-Volatile Memory Cell Inversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computing systems face challenges in quickly and reliably backing up volatile register data to non-volatile memory during power loss events, especially as the number of data bits increases, due to limited remaining power.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a fast register back-up system that uses an additional non-volatile memory where each cell corresponds to a register data word value, with all cells initially set to a reset value, allowing for rapid identification and backup of data during power loss by inverting the corresponding cell value, and subsequent restoration upon power return using a reverse mapping process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional bit-by-bit backup method is used, then data integrity is maintained, but backup speed decreases and reliability worsens as register size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the backup task by dedicating one non-volatile memory cell to represent the entire register word value, rather than backing up each bit individually. This segmentation allows the backup operation to complete in a single fast write cycle, resolving the contradiction between backup speed and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the register state by storing only the word value in non-volatile memory, rather than copying the complete bit structure. This copying approach maintains data integrity while dramatically reducing backup time and power requirements.
2Reliability
If more non-volatile memory cells are used to store each bit individually, then data integrity is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent re-segments the memory allocation by assigning one non-volatile cell to represent the entire register word, rather than allocating one cell per bit. This reduces the total number of cells needed and simplifies the memory structure while maintaining full data integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each non-volatile memory cell serves multiple purposes: storing the complete register word value, enabling fast backup, and supporting restoration operations. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity compared to bit-by-bit storage schemes.
3Loss of information
If traditional backup method is used, then complete data coverage is achieved, but available power is exhausted before backup completion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the backup action immediately upon detecting a power loss event, writing the register word value to non-volatile memory in a single operation. This preliminary action completes the backup before power is fully exhausted, preventing data loss while minimizing energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent rushes through the backup process by using a single fast write operation to capture the register state, rather than sequentially backing up each bit. This approach completes the backup before power exhaustion occurs, preventing data loss with minimal power usage.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes: a processor; a register configured to store a plurality of words, non-volatile memory having a plurality of cells, each cell corresponding to one of the words of the register, and wherein the each cell of the plurality of cells are set to an initial reset value; a first controller that in response to a loss in power: determines the word stored by the register; and changes the initial reset value of the cell of the non-volatile memory corresponding to the determined word stored by the register to a set value; a second controller that in response to detecting a restoration in power: identifies the cell having the set value; writes the word corresponding to the identified cell to the register; and resets the cells of the non-volatile memory to the initial reset value.