UFS Host Controller Buffer Search Using Command-Based Identifier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Universal Flash Storage (UFS) host controllers face challenges in efficiently managing data transfers and power consumption, particularly when the system clock is idle, as existing methods lack adaptive power-saving mechanisms that allow external devices to communicate effectively during this period.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method and system that allows the system clock to be turned off during idle periods by using a command-based identifier to determine whether to use a 2DW PRDT or 4DW PRDT format for data buffer searching, enabling flexible switching between modes based on command requirements, thereby maintaining communication with external devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the system clock is turned off during idle periods to save power, then power consumption is reduced, but communication with external devices cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two operational modes: a first mode where the system clock is enabled for full communication capability, and a second mode where the system clock is disabled for power saving. The host controller can adaptively transition between these modes based on communication requirements, allowing the device to optimize power consumption while maintaining communication reliability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the host controller by enabling or disabling the system clock. When the system clock is disabled, the host controller operates in a low-power state with reduced functionality. When communication is required, the system clock is re-enabled to restore full operational capability. This parameter change allows the system to balance power consumption and communication reliability.
2Loss of energy
If a system-level format setting is used for buffer searching, then power consumption is reduced, but flexibility to handle different command formats is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the buffer searching functionality into two distinct approaches: a system-level format setting that provides power-efficient operation for common cases, and a command-based identifier that provides format-specific control when needed. This segmentation allows the system to use the simpler, lower-power system-level setting by default, while retaining the ability to switch to command-based format identification when handling diverse command formats.
Solution Approach 2:
The host controller is designed with multi-functionality to handle both system-level format settings and command-based format identification. The controller can interpret format information from either the system-level setting or from identifiers within individual commands, making it universally capable of handling different format requirements while maintaining power efficiency for standard operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If command-based identifier checking is implemented, then format flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements partial format checking by using command-based identifiers only when necessary. The host controller first checks whether format information is provided at the system level, and only performs additional command-based format checking when the system-level setting is insufficient or when specific commands require format differentiation. This partial action approach provides format flexibility without fully implementing the complexity of universal command-based format checking.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for searching a buffer of a non-volatile storage host controller is provided. The method includes obtaining a command-based identifier of a command when a system level setting of a first format is enabled; and checking a format information on whether the first format or a second format is used to execute the command according to the identifier. A system for searching a buffer of a non-volatile storage host controller is provided. A host of the system searches a buffer by using the command-based identifier when a system level setting of a first format is enabled and check format information on whether the first format or a second format is used to execute the command according to the identifier.