Optimizing NVM Utilization Efficiency with Huffman Compression Algorithm in MCU Based System

The permanent storage of data in embedded systems is considered a critical requirement. In this regard, Non-Volatile Memory storage technology holds significant importance. Efficient utilization of NVM is of great importance in order to maximize its potential. This can be achieved by increasing read/write speed and effectively utilizing the available space. Previous research has shown that maximizing the filling of an NVM sector without garbage bytes has great potential. This article aims to go beyond previous studies on efficient NVM utilization by incorporating the Huffman compression algorithm. The proposed approach is based on the fundamental principles of the standard Huffman compression algorithm. Symbol frequencies of the data to be compressed are calculated and these frequencies are stored in a frequency table. A Huffman tree is constructed using the frequency table, and bit sequences are assigned to symbols. The resulting compressed data is written to NVM without garbage bytes, thereby improving storage efficiency and enabling storage of more data in NVM. This study surpasses previous works by ensuring optimal utilization of NVM. However, the developed efficient NVM utilization does not include any power security features. In future research, secure power features could be added to enhance reliability.