SSD Controller Dynamic Data Sizing for PLP Capacitor Degradation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The aging degradation of PLP capacitors in solid state drives (SSDs) reduces their capacitance, making it difficult to charge them to the required voltage level for data protection during unexpected power shutdowns, which can lead to data loss.
Innovation Solution
A memory system with a backup power supply circuit using multiple PLP capacitors connected in parallel, where the controller adjusts the data size stored in volatile memory based on the supply capability, and sets multiple threshold values to manage data storage and ensure data integrity even with reduced capacitance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If PLP capacitors are used for backup power supply, then data protection during unexpected power shutdown is improved, but capacitance decreases due to aging degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the valid data size in volatile memory based on the health value of PLP capacitors. As capacitance degrades over time, the system adapts by reducing the amount of data that can be protected, ensuring that only data within the remaining operational capacity is stored in volatile memory.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism by measuring the health value of PLP capacitors and using this information to control the data storage policy. The controller continuously monitors capacitor degradation and adjusts the valid data size accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that responds to actual component condition.
2Reliability
If data size in volatile memory is reduced, then data loss prevention is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The valid data size is not fixed but dynamically adjusted based on capacitor health. When capacitors are healthy, maximum data capacity is utilized. As degradation occurs, the system gradually reduces the valid data size to match the remaining protective capability, optimizing the trade-off between safety and capacity at each stage of component life.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of valid data size based on the health value of PLP capacitors. By modifying this critical parameter in response to component degradation, the system maintains optimal protection levels while maximizing usable storage capacity under varying conditions.
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
The system effectively extends the operation period of the SSD by reducing the valid data size in volatile memory, ensuring data can be written to non-volatile memory even when PLP capacitors' capacitance is degraded, thereby preventing data loss during unexpected power shutdowns.
Implementation Method 1
The PLP capacitor can be charged to a predetermined voltage by storing electric charges in the capacitor. If the power supply is unexpectedly shut down for some reason, the electric charges stored in the PLP capacitor are emitted and the charged voltage is discharged.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a memory system includes a controller controls writing data to a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory, a power supply circuit generates voltages with a first voltage externally supplied and supplies the voltages to the non-volatile memory, volatile memory, and controller, and a backup power supply circuit. The power supply circuit, when the first voltage drops irrespective of a shutdown command, generates the voltages with an output voltage of the backup power supply circuit. The controller changes a size of data storable in the volatile memory in accordance with a supply capability fed from the backup power supply circuit.