Storage Adapter Mode Signaling for SSD Hot Plug Data Dump
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solid state drives (SSDs) face data loss during sudden power-off situations due to insufficient time for data dump operations, especially in hot plug-out scenarios where they lack an auxiliary power source, making them unsuitable for high-reliability applications like servers.
Innovation Solution
A storage adapter system with a carrier and mode signal generating circuit that detects connection states to trigger data dump operations from volatile to nonvolatile memory, allowing use as both server and user SSDs without requiring an internal auxiliary power source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If an SSD is used without an internal auxiliary power source to reduce cost and complexity, then the device complexity is reduced, but data loss occurs during sudden power-off situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mode signal generating circuit as an intermediary component that detects connection states and triggers data dump operations. This circuit acts as a mediator between the connection state and the memory controller, enabling the system to respond to sudden power-off events without requiring an auxiliary power source. The mode signal serves as the intermediary mechanism that initiates the protective data transfer process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by performing data dump operations from volatile buffer memory to nonvolatile memory before the sudden power-off actually occurs. The mode signal generating circuit detects connection state changes in advance and triggers the memory controller to transfer data proactively, ensuring data is secured before power is lost. This preliminary data transfer prevents data loss without needing auxiliary power.
2Reliability
If the SSD performs data dump operations continuously to prevent data loss, then data safety is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by triggering data dump operations only at specific moments when connection state changes are detected, rather than continuously. The mode signal generating circuit monitors the connection state periodically and initiates data dump operations only when a change is detected, such as when the SSD is about to be removed or power is about to be lost. This periodic triggering mechanism ensures data safety while minimizing unnecessary energy consumption during normal operation.
3Speed
If the SSD detects connection state changes rapidly to respond to hot plug-out events, then response speed is improved, but the complexity of detection circuitry increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by designing the mode signal generating circuit to automatically detect connection state changes and generate mode signals without requiring complex external detection systems. The circuit uses simple electrical connection state detection that leverages the existing interface between the SSD and carrier, allowing the system to self-monitor and self-respond to connection changes. This self-service approach achieves rapid response with minimal additional circuitry complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage adapter includes a carrier and a storage device. The storage device stores data and includes a buffer memory including a volatile memory, a nonvolatile memory, a memory controller that controls the buffer memory and the nonvolatile memory, and a mode signal generating circuit that generates a mode signal, based on a connection state of the storage device and the carrier. The carrier removably receives the storage device, and based on a level of the mode signal, the memory controller selectively performs a data dump operation such that the data stored in the buffer memory are stored in the nonvolatile memory.