Data Storage Device and Method for Identifying a Failing Area of Memory Based on a Cluster of Bit Errors

Abstract

For bit errors caused by intrinsic cell variations, the bit errors are scattered across a page of memory. However, for bit errors caused by a physical issue in memory, the bit errors cluster together within the same memory area. In an example data storage device, a page of memory is divided into sections, and counters are used to count the number of errors in each section. A physical error location is detected if the number exceeds a parameter, and as compared to the number of errors in the other sections. In another example data storage device having an error correction code (ECC) engine, a histogram and binomial probability are used to detect physical errors. This has the advantage of detecting weak memory blocks that are about to fail, so the blocks can be retired early as a grown bad block.

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