Chapter 5 Memory.ppt

Chapter 5 Memory Outline Memory Write Ability and Storage Permanence Common Memory Types Composing Memory Memory Hierarchy and Cache Advanced RAM Introduction Embedded system’s functionality aspects Processing processors transformation of data Storage memory retention of data Communication buses transfer of data Memory: basic concepts Stores large number of bits m x n: m words of n bits each k = Log2(m) address input signals or m = 2^k words e.g., 4,096 x 8 memory: 32,768 bits 12 address input signals 8 input/output data signals Memory access r/w: selects read or write enable: read or write only when asserted multiport: multiple accesses to different locations simultaneously Write ability/ storage permanence Traditional ROM/RAM distinctions ROM read only, bits stored without power RAM read and write, lose stored bits without power Traditional distinctions blurred Advanced ROMs can be written to e.g., EEPROM Advanced RAMs can hold bits without power e.g., NVRAM Write ability Manner and speed a memory can be written Storage permanence ability of memory to hold stored bits after they are written Write ability Ranges of write ability High end processor writes to memory simply and quickly e.g., RAM Middle range processor writes to memory, but slower e.g., FLASH, EEPROM Lower range special equipment, “programmer”, must be used to write to memory e.g., EPROM, OTP ROM Low end bits stored only during fabrication e.g., Mask-programmed ROM In-system programmable memory Can be written to by a processor in the embedded system using the memory Memories in high end and middle range of write ability Storage permanence Range of storage permanence High end essentially never loses bits e.g., mask-programmed ROM Middle range holds bits days, months, or years after memory’s power source turned off e.g., NVRAM Lower range holds bits as long as power supplied to memory e.g., SRAM Low end begins to lose bits almost immediately after written e.g., DRAM Nonvolatile memory Holds bits after