Novel flash memory arrangement

Abstract

A device, a method and a system for direct execution of code from a flash memory arrangement, in which a separate memory component is not required, even if a flash memory component is used which has a restriction on the size of a data block which can be read at one time. Furthermore, the flash memory arrangement is optionally implemented as a “single die” chip or device, which is more efficient for manufacturing and which also results in lower costs.

1 . A method for booting a system, the system featuring a processor for executing boot code, the method comprising: 
 providing a flash-based unit in the system for storing the boot code to be executed, said flash-based unit comprising a flash memory of a restricted type, being characterized in that code cannot be directly executed from said flash memory, and a volatile memory component for receiving a portion of the boot code to be executed;    transferring a first portion of the boot code to said volatile memory component using a logic separate from the processor, said first portion of the boot code being for basic initialization of the system and containing a command for copying a second portion of the code; and    executing said first portion of the boot code by said processor to boot the system.    
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising the step of: 
 transferring a second portion of the code to said volatile memory component for booting the system.