Storage Controller Pin Mapping Using Command-Driven Data Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increase in size of storage devices due to the need for separate pins to determine connection methods between memory devices and storage controllers.
Innovation Solution
A storage controller and memory device system that uses a command to generate data patterns for determining connection structures between data pins without additional pins, allowing for various connection methods and reducing interference and signal integrity issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate pins are added to determine connection methods between memory devices and storage controllers, then connection method determination capability is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connection method determination function with existing data pins by utilizing data patterns embedded in commands and responses. Instead of adding separate pins, the connection structure information is encoded within the data transmitted during normal operation, allowing multiple functions to share the same physical infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The data pins are given multi-functionality by enabling them to serve both their original data transmission purpose and the additional function of conveying connection structure information. The command and response data patterns carry dual purposes: normal data operations and connection method identification, eliminating the need for dedicated pins.
2Area of stationary object
If data patterns are transmitted through existing data lines to determine connection structures, then device size is reduced, but signal integrity may be affected by interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs connection structure determination during the initialization phase before normal data operations begin. By completing the connection identification using data patterns in advance, the system establishes proper communication parameters and connection mappings before actual data transmission, preventing interference issues during operational phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where the storage controller sends commands with specific data patterns and the memory device responds with corresponding patterns. By comparing the transmitted and received patterns, the controller can verify connection integrity and detect any interference, allowing for error correction and retransmission if necessary.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage device comprising a storage controller including a plurality of first data pins and configured to send a command through a command/address (CA) line, the command including a first data pattern; and a memory device including a plurality of second data pins connected to the plurality of first data pins through a plurality of data lines, and configured to, in response to receiving the command from the storage controller, generate a second data pattern corresponding to the first data pattern based on the command, and send the second data pattern to the storage controller through the plurality of data lines, and the storage controller configured to receive a third data pattern in response to the memory device sending the second data pattern, and determine a connection structure between the plurality of first data pins and the plurality of second data pins based on the second and third data patterns.