US 2008/0307252 A1 · Method and Apparatus for Implementing Redundant Memory Access Using Multiple Controllers on the Same Bank of Memory

Abstract

A method and apparatus implement redundant memory access using multiple controllers on the same bank of memory. A first memory controller uses the memory as its primary address space, for storage and fetches. A second redundant controller is also connected to the same memory. System control logic is used to notify the redundant controller of the need to take over the memory interface. The redundant controller initializes if required and takes control of the memory. The memory only needs to be initialized if the system has to be brought down and restarted in the redundant mode. This invention allows the system to continue to stay up and continue running during a memory controller or link failure.

Claims20

Dependent claims

An apparatus for implementing redundant memory access comprising:

a memory;
a first memory controller coupled to said memory;
said first memory controller using said memory as a primary address space for storage and fetches;
a second redundant memory controller coupled to said memory;
system control logic coupled to said first memory controller and said second redundant memory controller;
said system control logic notifying said second redundant memory controller to take control of said memory;
and
said second redundant memory controller initializing and taking control of said memory responsive to being notified by said system control logic.

5 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Method and Apparatus for Implementing Redundant Memory Access Using Multiple Controllers on the Same Bank of Memory

Life of this patent

Method and Apparatus for Implementing Redundant Memory Access Using Multiple Controllers on the Same Bank of Memory

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20