Systems and methods for handshaking with a memory module

A method performed by a memory controller coupled to at least a first memory module, the first memory module configured to perform memory operations in response to memory commands from the memory controller in accordance with an industry standard while operating in a first mode, the method comprising:

• outputting a command to the first memory module to cause the first memory module to operate in a second mode so as to execute an internal procedure, whereby the memory controller hands off control of the internal procedure to the first memory module;
• receiving a notification signal via at least one input of the memory controller indicating a status of the internal procedure, the at least one input of the memory controller being coupled to at least one output of the first memory module, the at least one output of the first memory module having a defined function according to the industry standard while the first memory module is operating in the first mode but is undefined by the industry standard while the first memory module is operating in the second mode;
• and
• resuming memory operations by issuing memory commands to the first memory module after receiving the notification signal.

A memory module operable with a memory controller of a host computer system in a first mode in which the memory module performs memory operations in response to memory commands from the memory controller in accordance with an industry standard, the memory module comprising:

• a module controller circuit configured to cause the memory module to operate in a second mode in response to a command to execute an internal procedure from the host computer system;
• at least one output having a defined function in the first mode according to the industry standard but is undefined by the industry standard in the second mode;
• and
• a notification circuit to output a notification signal indicating a status of the at least one internal procedure to the memory controller via the at least one output.