Wireless Memory Controller Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable memory systems, such as USB drives and SD cards, pose a risk for unauthorized data extraction due to their ease of use and lack of effective prevention measures.
Innovation Solution
A memory system capable of wireless communication that includes a wireless communication unit, a non-volatile memory, and a memory controller, which manages access by only allowing data access when connected to a registered wireless communication device, denying access when not connected, and updating access permissions to prevent unauthorized data retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wireless communication function is added to portable memory system, then data security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the wireless communication unit, memory controller, and non-volatile memory into an integrated memory system. The memory controller simultaneously manages both wired host device access and wireless communication, merging multiple functions into a single cohesive system that enhances security without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory controller serves multiple functions: it controls data access from host devices through wired connections, manages wireless communication protocols, handles authentication of wireless devices, and controls the wireless communication unit. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
2Reliability
If access control based on wireless connection is implemented, then data security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs wireless device authentication and access control decisions without requiring user intervention. The memory controller automatically checks whether authenticated wireless devices are in range, automatically grants or denies access based on authentication status, and manages the wireless communication unit without user input, making the security process transparent to users.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the connection status between the memory system and authenticated wireless devices. When an authenticated device moves out of range or connection is lost, the system automatically detects this change through feedback from the wireless communication unit and responds by denying access, maintaining security dynamically without user awareness.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication unit is integrated, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication unit is integrated with the existing memory controller and memory system architecture. The memory controller already manages data access protocols and now extends this control to wireless communication, merging the wireless functionality into the existing control structure rather than creating a completely separate system.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a memory controller allows access to a first non-volatile memory from a host device when a wireless communication unit is communicable or communicating with any one of wireless communication devices, and denies access to the first non-volatile memory from the host device when the wireless communication unit is not communicable or communicating with any one of the wireless communication devices. The memory controller does not allow the host device to access information in the first non-volatile memory after the access field specification information is updated.