Publication Date
5-2010
Type of Culminating Activity
Thesis
Degree Title
Master of Science in Computer Engineering
Department
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Major Advisor
Sin Ming Loo, Ph.D.
Abstract
Flash memory can be found in media players, cameras, cell phones and portable storage. These consumer items have universally compatible storage devices. However, what is their longevity and what is the long-term data retention reliability? This thesis will explore and attempt to answer these questions. Predicting accurate endurance ratings and long-term storage reliability is problematic; a storage card in a cell phone will simply wear differently if used for personal computer backup. Advertised longevity ratings can also be ambiguous, specified in a number of years of ‘typical’ and ‘average’ use.
This thesis begins by exploring the operation of flash technology used in managed NAND devices. Operational and hidden byproducts of controlling flash memory were identified then directly observed on a sampled MultiMediaCard (MMC) card. The collected data was graphed to calculate the life span of the product for several synthetic data transfer categories. Combined with the total storage capacity, the factors used in longevity calculations are shown to be dependent upon the transfer method.
To answer the original question, a hypothetical camera file storage usage model was contrasted against measured wear data to calculate longevity. When changing the addressing randomness of writing data to fifty percent of total transfers, the 10-year advertised longevity was shown diminished by half. This demonstrated how data storage randomness of the usage model influences device longevity.
Recommended Citation
Jurenka, Mark G., "Exploring Managed NAND Media Endurance" (2010). Boise State University Theses and Dissertations. 90.
https://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/td/90