Physical Layer Error Log Extraction in UFS Storage Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
In storage devices with a multi-layer structure, such as those using the Universal Flash Storage (UFS) interface, errors often occur due to advancements in communication and semiconductor technologies, leading to increased operating speeds and functionality, making it difficult for manufacturers and developers to diagnose and correct errors, especially when upper layers fail to operate normally.
Innovation Solution
An operation method that allows error logs to be extracted based on communication at the lower layer, specifically using a physical layer to transmit error information to the host device, even if the upper layers are not functioning correctly, through peer-to-peer communication and attribute management within the Unipro and M-PHY layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the operating speed and functionality of storage media are improved through communication technology and semiconductor technology advances, then the performance of storage media is improved, but errors occur more frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication protocol into multiple layers (physical layer, Unipro layer, etc.) and implements independent error log extraction at each layer. The physical layer maintains its own error log storage and extraction mechanism separate from upper layers, allowing error diagnosis to proceed even when upper layers fail.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary error log storage in the physical layer before upper layer processing occurs. Error information is captured and stored at the lowest layer where it first occurs, ensuring that error data is preserved even if subsequent upper layers become non-operational.
2Adaptability or versatility
If various functions are implemented in storage media, then the functionality is improved, but errors occur more frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the storage device into functionally independent layers, with each layer having its own error logging capability. This segmentation allows complex multi-functional operations to be isolated into discrete layers, so that errors in one function or layer do not prevent error diagnosis in other layers.
3Reliability
If the host is reset when an error occurs, then the error situation can be addressed, but it becomes difficult for manufacturers or developers to check the error situation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary error log storage in the physical layer before the host reset occurs. Error information is captured and preserved in the storage device's memory at the lowest layer, ensuring that debugging information remains accessible even after the host system is reset.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the physical layer as an intermediary between the host and the storage medium. This intermediary layer maintains error logs independently and can provide error information to the host through low-level interfaces even when upper layer communication is disrupted by host resets.
4Loss of information
If error logs are extracted through upper layers, then comprehensive error information can be obtained, but extraction fails when upper layers do not operate normally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments error logging and extraction capabilities across multiple layers. The physical layer maintains its own error log storage and extraction interface, independent of upper layers. This allows error information to be extracted through the physical layer even when upper layers are non-operational, while upper layers can still provide additional error context when functional.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements error extraction at multiple levels - the physical layer provides basic error log extraction as a minimum guarantee, while upper layers provide additional comprehensive error information when available. This partial action approach ensures that some error information is always extractable, with the option to obtain more complete information when upper layers are functional.
Data Source
AI summary
An operation method is for a storage device that includes a storing unit storing a plurality of error logs and a physical layer and exchanges an electrical signal with a host via the physical layer. The operation method includes receiving a debugging command from the host, setting a first value at a first attribute included in the physical layer in response to the debugging command, setting a second value different from the first value at the first attribute in response to a control of the host, setting one among the plurality of error logs at a second attribute based on the first attribute at which the second value is set, and transmitting the error log set at the second attribute to the host in response to a control of the host.