Patent ID: 7599241
Filing Date: 2009-10-06
Classification: G11C

Abstract:
1. A method for carrying out a write-abort process to suspend attempts by a memory controller to write data into a non-volatile memory array during low-voltage conditions, the method comprising: monitoring an output of a voltage supply powering the memory array with a voltage supervisor circuit; detecting a “low-voltage” condition of the voltage supply and, responsive thereto, asserting a “low-voltage” signal; subsequent to assertion of the “low-voltage” signal, completing any write cycle already started prior to assertion of the “low-voltage” condition signal using remaining power from the voltage supply; and suspending any unprocessed write commands while the “low-voltage” signal is asserted by causing the controller to repetitively execute an algorithm to check for deassertion of the “low-voltage” signal and to continue executing the algorithm until the low-voltage signal is deasserted.