Abstract: In a nonvolatile memory system, first raw data is obtained from stored data using a first set of reading parameters. Subsequently, the first raw data is transferred to an ECC circuit where it is decoded. While the first raw data is being transferred and decoded, second raw data is obtained from the same stored data using a second set of reading parameters.

Abstract: The quality of data stored in individual blocks of memory cells of a flash memory system is monitored by a scrub read of only a small portion of a block, performed after data are read from less than all of a block in response to a read command from a host or memory controller. The small portion is selected for the scrub read because of its greater vulnerability than other portions of the block to being disturbed as a result of the commanded partial block data read. This then determines, as the result of reading a small amount of data, whether at least some of the data in the block was disturbed by the command data read to a degree that makes it desirable to refresh the data of the block.

Abstract: The quality of data stored in individual blocks of memory cells of a flash memory system is monitored by a scrub read of only a small portion of a block, performed after data are read from less than all of a block in response to a read command from a host or memory controller. The small portion is selected for the scrub read because of its greater vulnerability than other portions of the block to being disturbed as a result of the commanded partial block data read. This then determines, as the result of reading a small amount of data, whether at least some of the data in the block was disturbed by the command data read to a degree that makes it desirable to refresh the data of the block.

Abstract: In a nonvolatile memory with block management system, data are written to blocks and are erasable block by block. At any time a pool of blocks are open for storing data concurrently. The number of blocks in the pool is limited. A replacement system allows new blocks to be introduced into the pool without exceeding the limit. In particular, different classes of blocks in the pool each has its own replacement rule, such as closing a least active block before being replaced. In this way, possible inefficiency and premature closure of blocks in the pool can be avoided.

Abstract: In a nonvolatile memory with block management system, data are written to blocks and are erasable block by block. At any time a pool of blocks are open for storing data concurrently. The number of blocks in the pool is limited. A replacement system allows new blocks to be introduced into the pool without exceeding the limit. In particular, different classes of blocks in the pool each has its own replacement rule, such as closing a least active block before being replaced. In this way, possible inefficiency and premature closure of blocks in the pool can be avoided.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for accessing modules on a flash memory package concurrently during testing are disclosed. According to one aspect of the present invention, a memory device for storing data includes a plurality of modules and a logic block. The plurality of modules each include a plurality of storage elements that hold the data. The logic block is arranged to enable the plurality of modules to be accessed in parallel, and is also arranged to enable the plurality of modules to be accessed serially.