Storage Device Partial Array Refresh Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current volatile memory devices, such as DRAM, face inefficiencies in refresh operations, leading to data loss over time, and existing methods like Partial Array Auto Refresh (PAAR) or Partial Array Self Refresh do not fully optimize the refresh process.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method that uses a partial array refresh setting to differentiate between masking and non-masking segments within a memory array, allowing for targeted refresh operations while enabling write commands during refresh cycles, thereby improving operational efficiency and performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a full array refresh operation is performed, then data retention is ensured, but operational efficiency and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The memory array is divided into multiple segments (first segment and second segment) that can be independently refreshed. The refresh operation is segmented such that only the first segment is refreshed while the second segment remains active for write operations, resolving the contradiction between ensuring data retention and maintaining operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of performing a full array refresh (excessive action), the patent applies partial refresh to only the necessary first segment. This partial action suffices to maintain data retention for the refreshed segment while avoiding the productivity loss associated with refreshing the entire array.
2Productivity
If a partial array refresh operation is performed, then operational efficiency is improved, but data retention for the entire array is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The array is segmented into first and second segments with different refresh requirements. The first segment undergoes partial refresh to maintain data retention, while the second segment maintains continuous write capability. This segmentation allows the system to achieve operational efficiency by refreshing only necessary portions while maintaining data retention where required.
3Productivity
If write operations are performed during refresh cycles, then productivity is improved, but data integrity and reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The memory array is divided into first and second segments where the first segment is dedicated to refresh operations and the second segment is dedicated to write operations. This segmentation allows write operations to proceed concurrently with refresh operations without compromising data integrity, as each segment operates independently with its own dedicated function.
Solution Approach 2:
Different segments of the memory array are assigned different operational characteristics: the first segment has refresh-oriented properties while the second segment has write-oriented properties. This local differentiation allows the system to maintain data integrity in the refresh segment while improving productivity through concurrent write operations in the other segment.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a host device to control a storage device which includes a register is provided. The method includes: providing the storage device with a partial array refresh setting indicating a non-masking segment among a masking segment and the non-masking segment; providing a refresh command to the storage device; and providing a write command for the masking segment to the storage device to control the storage device to store data while a partial array refresh is performed in the storage device based on the refresh command.