Storage Device Recovery Using Host Memory Buffer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Storage devices often become inoperable due to fatal errors, requiring external intervention for recovery, leading to increased downtime and loss of data.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing a host memory buffer to store replay protected memory data and firmware recovery data, allowing the storage device to automatically recover from fatal errors without external assistance by accessing these data sets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If storage device removes itself for external servicing when fatal error occurs, then recovery can be achieved, but device downtime increases and operation continuity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device performs self-recovery by utilizing host memory buffer to store backup data and automatically restoring its operational state without requiring external intervention. The device controller executes recovery operations autonomously by accessing the host memory buffer when fatal errors occur, thereby eliminating the need for manual removal and external servicing.
Solution Approach 2:
The host memory buffer pre-stores backup data and recovery information before fatal errors occur. This preliminary preparation enables the storage device to immediately initiate recovery operations using the pre-positioned data, significantly reducing the time required to restore operation compared to external servicing scenarios.
2Reliability
If storage device requires external software or third-party intervention for recovery, then comprehensive repair can be performed, but operational continuity is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device autonomously performs recovery operations by accessing backup data stored in the host memory buffer. The device controller independently executes restoration procedures without requiring external software or third-party intervention, thereby maintaining operational continuity while achieving complete recovery of the storage device.
Solution Approach 2:
The host memory buffer serves as an intermediary that stores backup data and facilitates the recovery process. By acting as a bridge between the storage device and the host system, it enables the device to perform self-recovery while maintaining seamless integration with the host, thus preserving operational continuity.
3Loss of time
If storage device performs automatic recovery using host memory buffer, then downtime is reduced, but dependency on host system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The host memory buffer serves multiple functions: it acts as both the storage medium for backup data and the facilitator of the recovery process. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated recovery hardware or complex external systems, thereby minimizing system dependency while enabling rapid automatic recovery.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage device leverages existing host system resources (memory buffer) to perform self-recovery, eliminating the need for separate recovery infrastructure. This approach reduces recovery time while avoiding increased system complexity by utilizing already-present host components.
Data Source
AI summary
Storage devices include a memory array which stores host data received from a host computing device. During normal operations, the storage device may encounter a fatal error which can halt functionality. To restore functionality without system disconnection or third-party interventions, the storage device can store recovery data within a host memory buffer prior to encountering a fatal error. The recovery data can be replay protected memory data and/or firmware recovery data that can be written to the host memory buffer upon power on or during a firmware update. When a fatal error occurs, the recovery data can be accessed to try and rebuild file and mapping systems to restore full operation of the storage device. When full operational restoration is not possible, host data can at least be copied from the storage device prior to utilizing firmware recovery data to restore the storage device to an erased but functional state.