Remote SSD Debug via Host Interface and UART Sniffer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for debugging solid state drives (SSDs) require physical connections via UART or JTAG cables, which are not always feasible, especially in portable devices where space and accessibility are limited.
Innovation Solution
Implementing vendor unique (VU) commands to enable remote debugging over host protocols like SATA or NVMe, eliminating the need for physical cables by transferring commands through a host interface and utilizing firmware cores with embedded UART sniffer functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical cable connections (UART/JTAG) are used for debugging SSD, then debugging capability is achieved, but device complexity and accessibility are worsened due to required physical connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism by embedding a UART sniffer within the firmware core that captures debug information through internal logging to a file system, rather than requiring external physical connections. This intermediary approach allows debug data to be accessed through normal host protocol interfaces (SATA/NVMe) without needing separate UART or JTAG cable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical UART cable connection system with a software-based host protocol interface. Instead of requiring physical UART cables connected to debug ports, the system substitutes this with electronic communication through existing host interfaces (SATA/NVMe), eliminating the need for separate physical debugging infrastructure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If physical debug ports are used, then debugging is possible, but portability and space efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing host interface (SATA/NVMe) multi-functional by enabling it to carry both normal data traffic and debug information simultaneously. The UART sniffer embedded in the firmware core logs debug data to the file system, which can then be accessed through the same host interface used for data operations, eliminating the need for dedicated debug ports or separate physical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the debugging function with the existing host interface and file system infrastructure. Instead of having separate debug ports and connections, the debug capability is combined with the normal data path by logging UART data to files that can be read through standard host protocols, thus combining multiple functions into existing structures.
3Reliability
If traditional UART debugging is used, then debug information can be captured, but cost and complexity increase due to additional hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service debugging where the firmware core itself performs the debugging function through an embedded UART sniffer. The system debugs itself by capturing its own UART traffic internally and logging it to the file system, eliminating the need for external debugging hardware or separate UART interfaces. The SSD becomes self-sufficient for debugging purposes.
Data Source
AI summary
Memory systems and method of operating the same enable debugging of a memory system with vendor unique (VU) commands without using a physical cable connection to a debugging port on the memory system. In one aspect, a Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter (UART) protocol is serialized over a VU host protocol. In another aspect, Joint Test Action Group (JTAG) may be performed over UART or serial advanced technology attachment (SATA).