Look-ahead erase for sequential data storage

Abstract

Continuous recording in a flash memory uses a look-ahead erase process that includes simultaneously writing data to a first sector in a first array while preparing (erasing and/or partially programming) a second sector in a second array. The second sector is ready for writing when a last datum fills the first sector and is immediately available for writing while a third sector is prepared. The look-ahead erase keeps preparing sectors so that writing can continue without interruptions for erase processes. Embodiments of the invention include integrated circuit memories having two or more memory arrays, each having a plurality of independently erasable sectors. Each time a sector is filled the write process switches to a sector in another array.