PCI express-compatible controller and interface for flash memory
US7457897B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 17, 2004 |
| Grant date | Nov 25, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 3, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG11C2216/30
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A PCI Express-compatible flash device can include one or more flash memory modules, a controller, and an ExpressCard interface. The controller can advantageously provide PCI Express functionality as well as flash memory operations, e.g. writing, reading, or erasing, using the ExpressCard interface. A PIO interface includes sending first and second memory request packets to the flash device. The first memory request packet includes a command word setting that prepares the flash device for the desired operation. The second memory request packet triggers the operation and includes a data payload, if needed. A DMA interface includes sending the second memory request from the flash device to the host, thereby triggering the host to release the system bus for the DMA operation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.