Abstract: In accordance with exemplary embodiments, a flash memory, such as a NAND flash memory, selectively updates blocks based on hash values associated with the blocks, wherein the hashing codes are generated for each block from the software image to be programmed into the flash memory. Selectively updating blocks in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention might reduce re-programming time and potentially destructive pre-mature aging of cells in the flash memory.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an IC system includes a system on a chip (SoC) adapted to load boot-up code from an external NAND flash memory, which stores the boot-up code. The SoC has a processor, an internal ROM including boot-loading code, an operating RAM, a NAND flash controller (NFC), and an OTP memory. At some point after SoC manufacture, the OTP memory is programmed with parameters needed for communication between the NFC and the external NAND flash memory. This provides a system designer flexibility in choosing a type of external NAND flash memory for the IC system. During SoC power-up, the NFC is initialized with the communication parameters, thereby allowing the NFC to control the NAND flash memory. The boot-loading code directs the processor to load the boot-up code from the external NAND memory onto the operating RAM. The processor then executes the boot-up code from the operating RAM.