Unified Read Refresh Operation Code for Memory Sub-Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional memory systems face increased latency and complexity due to the need to process multiple operation codes for read and refresh operations, which can lead to data errors and corruption, especially in memory cells that are accessed more frequently than written to.
Innovation Solution
A memory device configured to receive a single operation code that initiates both read and refresh operations for sub-blocks, utilizing counters to track access operations and determine when a read refresh is necessary, thereby reducing system latency and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple operation codes are used for read and refresh operations, then memory operations can be performed, but system latency increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple operation codes into a single unified operation code that can initiate both read and refresh operations. This merging approach reduces the number of distinct operation codes the system must process, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to perform both read and refresh operations through a single code.
Solution Approach 2:
The single operation code is designed to be universal, capable of initiating multiple types of operations (read and refresh) depending on the memory cell access patterns. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain data integrity through refresh operations while using a simplified operation code structure that reduces processing complexity.
2Reliability
If multiple operation codes are processed, then memory operations can be distinguished, but system latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging read and refresh operation initiation into a single operation code, the system eliminates the time delay associated with processing multiple separate operation codes. The unified code can be decoded and executed more quickly than multiple distinct codes, reducing system latency while still enabling both read and refresh operations to maintain data integrity.
3Reliability
If read refresh operations are performed frequently, then data errors are reduced, but memory access operations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses counters to track the number of read operations performed on each memory cell and uses this feedback information to determine when refresh operations are necessary. By monitoring access patterns and triggering refresh operations based on actual read count thresholds, the system maintains data integrity without performing unnecessary refresh operations, thus balancing reliability with productivity.
4Measurement precision
If counters track access operations for each sub-block, then read refresh timing is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the memory array into multiple sub-blocks, each with its own dedicated counter for tracking read operations. This segmentation allows precise tracking of access patterns at the sub-block level, enabling accurate determination of when refresh operations are needed. The modular counter structure per sub-block manages complexity by localizing tracking functionality rather than requiring a single complex global tracking system.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices for read refresh operations are described. A memory device may include a plurality of sub-blocks of memory cells. Each sub-block may undergo a quantity of access operations (e.g., read operations, write operations). Based on the quantity of access operations performed on any one sub-block over a period of time, a read refresh operation may be performed on the memory cells of the sub-block. A read refresh operation may refresh and/or restore the data stored to the memory cells of the sub-block, and be initiated based on the memory device receiving an operation code (e.g., from a host device).