Pcm memories for storage bus interfaces

Abstract

A memory controller for a phase change memory (PCM) that can be used on a storage bus interface is described. In one example, the memory controller includes an external bus interface coupled to an external bus to communicate read and write instructions with an external device, a memory array interface coupled to a memory array to perform reads and writes on a memory array, and an overwrite moduleto write a desired value to a desired address of the memory array.

Description

technical field [0001] This application relates to the field of memory. Background technique [0002] Many portable electronic devices, including cameras, phones, game consoles, navigation systems, networking equipment, personal data assistants, digital photo frames, music and video players, and more, use non-volatile memory coupled to processors through standard interfaces. This approach is also suitable for some larger embedded systems, such as home entertainment equipment, appliances, home and office automation and monitoring systems, and controllers for engines, manufacturing methods, etc. Typically, the memory is internal NAND flash, but in other cases the memory is a removable memory card, and in some cases both can be used. [0003] Extensive development efforts have greatly improved the cost, reliability, speed, and density of flash memory, however, writing to flash memory is still slow and complicated compared to most random access memories (RAM). In a typical app...

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Problems solved by technology

This reduces the complexity of the remaining system, but these additional storage controller tasks further slow down write and read operations

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