Circuit and Method For Managing Access to Memory

A method for managing access to a memory shared between a first processor and a second processor using an interface circuit, the method comprising:

• determining that a first request to access the memory is originating from the first processor;
• initializing the interface circuit to allow the first processor to access the memory and to prevent the second processor from accessing the memory;
• receiving a second request from the second processor to access the memory during an execution of a programming and erase subroutine by the first processor;
• initiating a countdown time interval during which the second processor is notified that the second request is accepted and the second request is placed in a state of suspension until an end of the countdown time interval;
• and
• initializing the interface circuit to allow the second processor to access the memory based on determining the end of the countdown time interval and a successful suspension of the execution of the programming and erase subroutine by the first processor.

A method for managing access to a memory shared between a first processor and a second processor, the method comprising:

• allowing the first processor to access the memory and preventing the second processor from accessing the memory;
• receiving a request from the second processor to access the memory;
• initiating a first countdown time interval in response to the request, an access to the memory by the second processor is suspended during the first countdown time interval;
• and
• initiating a second countdown time interval at an end of the first countdown time interval, the second processor allowed to access the memory and the first processor is prevented from accessing the memory during the second countdown time interval;
• and
• resuming access to the memory by the first processor at the end of the second countdown time interval, the second processor prevented from accessing the memory at the end of the second countdown time interval.