Zoned SSD Initialization for Boot Time Reduction

Solution Overview

Problem

Current solid state drive (SSD) initialization methods require serial initialization of multiple components, leading to prolonged boot-up times in information handling systems, which can be mitigated but at the cost of reduced capacity or added complexity in hybrid HDD systems.

Innovation Solution

The SSD is divided into multiple initialization zones, where the first zone is initialized independently of the second zone, allowing for parallel or simultaneous initialization, thereby reducing start-up times without compromising capacity or robustness.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If serial initialization of all SSD components is performed, then proper defect table creation and wear leveling management is achieved, but boot-up time is significantly increased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedefect table creation and wear leveling managementVSAvoidboot-up time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The SSD is divided into multiple initialization zones (first zone, second zone, etc.) that can be initialized independently and in parallel. The controller divides the solid state memory components into zones and initializes them concurrently, with the first zone initialized independently from the second zone, thereby reducing boot-up time while maintaining proper initialization of all components for defect table creation and wear leveling management.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Loss of time

If the number of flash-type components in the SSD is limited to reduce initialization time, then boot-up time is improved, but capacity and read/write performance are decreased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveboot-up timeVSAvoidSSD capacity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The SSD is divided into multiple initialization zones (first zone, second zone, etc.) that can be initialized independently and in parallel. The controller divides the solid state memory components into zones and initializes them concurrently, with the first zone initialized independently from the second zone, thereby reducing boot-up time while maintaining proper initialization of all components for defect table creation and wear leveling management.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Loss of time

If hybrid HDD system is used with solid state components to reduce boot-up time, then boot-up time and power consumption are improved, but system complexity increases and flexibility in solid state media capacity is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveboot-up timeVSAvoidHDD system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The SSD is divided into multiple initialization zones (first zone, second zone, etc.) that can be initialized independently and in parallel. The controller divides the solid state memory components into zones and initializes them concurrently, with the first zone initialized independently from the second zone, thereby reducing boot-up time while maintaining proper initialization of all components for defect table creation and wear leveling management.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS8266354B2Zoned initialization of a solid state drive

Publication Date: 2012.09.11 DELL PROD LP

AI summary

Zoned initialization of a solid state drive is provided. A solid state memory device includes a controller for controlling storage and retrieval of data to and from the device. A set of solid state memory components electrically coupled to the controller. The set is electrically divided into a first zone and a second zone, wherein the first zone is at least partially initialized independent from the second zone. An interface is coupled between the controller and the set of solid state memory components to facilitate transfer of data between the set of solid state memory components and the controller.