Patent ID: 6295591
Filing Date: 2001-09-25
Classification: G11C

Abstract:
A method of providing maintenance for a memory device of a computer system without interrupting operation of the computer system, comprising the steps of:storing a plurality of values in a primary memory array;providing a partial mirror of the primary memory array in a secondary memory array, wherein the secondary memory array has less available memory than the primary memory array, in response to user initiation of a memory maintenance function;copying unmirrored values from the primary memory array to a permanent storage device in response to user initiation of a memory maintenance function;quiescing the primary memory array, after said copying step;servicing the primary memory array, after said quiescing step, while using the secondary memory array to operate the computer system;bringing the primary memory array on-line, after said servicing step; andwriting the mirrored values back from the secondary memory array to the primary memory array and writing the unmirrored values from said permanent storage device to the primary memory array, after said bringing step.