Replaceable Non-Volatile Memory Apparatus for Server Cost Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computer systems face limitations in performance due to the combination of volatile dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and magnetic storage disks, which require multiple servers and higher operating costs to meet performance demands, as DRAM offers high-performance random access but is limited in capacity and power-consuming, while magnetic storage provides larger capacity but poor data access performance.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of non-volatile memory integrated circuits, such as NAND Flash, which offer disk-like non-volatility and capacity with DRAM-like read and write access performance, are used in a server system with a memory controller to manage access and provide predictable bandwidth and latency, allowing for the augmentation or replacement of DRAM and storage disks, and include a power failure circuitry to ensure data preservation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If DRAM is used for high-performance random access, then access speed is improved, but capacity is limited and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines DRAM and non-volatile memory (NVM) into a single memory apparatus, creating a hybrid memory system that integrates the high-speed access characteristics of DRAM with the high capacity and non-volatility of NVM. This merging allows the system to achieve both fast access speeds and large storage capacity simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between speed and capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as high-speed volatile memory when powered, and as non-volatile storage when power is lost. The system universally handles both random access operations and bulk storage operations, eliminating the need for separate DRAM and disk storage components, thereby achieving both speed and capacity in a single unified system.
2Speed
If DRAM is used for high-performance random access, then access speed is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic power management by dynamically switching between powered and unpowered states. During active operation, the memory apparatus provides high-speed access like DRAM. When power is removed or lost, the non-volatile nature of the NVM component ensures data persistence without requiring continuous power consumption, thus achieving high speed during use while eliminating standby power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the memory system by transitioning between different power states and memory modes. The system can operate in high-performance mode with full power for fast access, or in low-power mode by removing power while maintaining data integrity through NVM, thereby achieving high speed when needed while dramatically reducing power consumption during idle or critical preservation periods.
3Quantity of substance
If magnetic storage disks are used for large capacity, then storage capacity is improved, but data access performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges magnetic storage disk characteristics (large capacity, non-volatility) with DRAM characteristics (high-speed random access) into a single hybrid memory apparatus. The NVM component provides the large storage capacity akin to magnetic disks, while the integrated DRAM buffer and controller enable high-speed access comparable to volatile memory, thus simultaneously achieving both large capacity and high data access performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a DRAM buffer as an intermediary between the NVM storage array and the host system. This intermediary cache layer provides high-speed access to frequently accessed data, while the NVM backend provides large capacity storage. The memory controller acts as a mediator that intelligently manages data between these layers, achieving both fast access performance and large storage capacity in a unified system.
4Productivity
If non-volatile memory is used to replace DRAM and magnetic disks, then server count is reduced, but ensuring data integrity during power failures becomes critical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by incorporating power failure detection circuitry and automatic data preservation mechanisms that activate before actual power loss occurs. The system continuously monitors power status and initiates data protection protocols in advance, ensuring that data integrity is maintained even during unexpected power failures, thus enabling reliable single-server operation with reduced server counts.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory apparatus incorporates feedback mechanisms through power failure detection circuits that monitor system state and trigger appropriate data protection responses. When power anomalies are detected, the system automatically activates preservation modes, ensuring data integrity. This feedback loop enables the system to maintain high reliability and data integrity, making single-server deployment with consolidated storage feasible and productive.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment of the invention, a replaceable memory apparatus is disclosed. The replaceable memory apparatus includes a first rectangular multilayer printed circuit board having a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a first male pluggable electrical connector mounted to the first side near a first edge; a first female pluggable electrical connector mounted to the second side; and first non-volatile memory mounted to the first side and the second side. The first female pluggable electrical connector is coupled to the first male pluggable electrical connector to feed through first signals. The first non-volatile memory is coupled to the first female pluggable electrical connector and the first male pluggable electrical connector to receive the first signals.