Comparison of EDAC schemes for DDR memory in space applications

Abstract

DDR memory used for data storage in space applications is subjected to different errors. These errors are caused by various perturbations such as cosmic radiations, solar radiations, galactic noise, electromagnetic radiations and extreme temperature in space, which can corrupt the data stored in the DDR memory. Error detection techniques allow detecting such errors, while error correction enables reconstruction of the original data. These error detection and correction techniques enable reliable delivery of digital data over an unreliable communication channel. This paper focuses on the comparative analysis of various EDAC schemes for space applications. The analysis is done on the basis of time complexity, space complexity, error correction and detection capabilities, code rate and bit overhead. This paper includes comparison of Hamming, Hadamard, Golay, Repetition, Berger, Single Parity, Four Dimensional Parity, BCH and Reed Solomon Codes. It is concluded that 4D parity codes are best suited for DDR memories in space applications, since they are easier to implement and have highest code rate to bit overhead ratio.