eMMC Benefit

When working with native NAND Flash components, data are written and read directly to physical locations in the NAND Flash memory. Host system needs to actively manage data at physical memory locations and correct bit errors as the data are read back from NAND Flash. Designers must implement the necessary ECC engine and data management algorithm in the host system, increasing the burden on host hardware and software design and validation. Revision to the design may be necessary each time the NAND Flash component is replaced by a newer part or a part from a different vendor. In comparison, eMMC functions as a block storage device, interacting with the host system through an abstracted interface protocol, analogous to an SSD.

The host system simply writes and reads data to and from logical block addresses (LBA’s), without needing to anticipate data errors and how the data would be stored and managed in the NAND Flash memory. The eMMC controller hardware and firmware handles the error correction and data management functions internally without involvement from the host system. Since the eMMC interface and protocol standardized by JEDEC® is agnostic to the underlying NAND Flash memory technology and configuration, compatibility and interoperability among different suppliers’ eMMC products can be assured.