Protection circuit and electronic device

Abstract

The application provides a protection circuit and an electronic device; the protection circuit is applied to an electronic module and connected with the electronic module; the protection circuit comprises: a control module, configured to output a control signal to a power management unit in response to a trigger signal caused by an abnormal input voltage of the power management unit; the control signal is used to control the power management unit to stop outputting a voltage; an isolation module, configured to disconnect an electrical connection between a power supply providing the input voltage of the power management unit and a target power domain in response to the trigger signal caused by the abnormal input voltage of the power management unit; the target power domain is a circuit area of the electronic module which still stores electric energy after the input voltage is abnormal; and a power supply maintenance module, configured to provide electric energy to the power management unit in response to the trigger signal caused by the abnormal input voltage of the power management unit, so that the power management unit maintains the electric energy within a target time length.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of protection circuit technology, and more particularly to a protection circuit and electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, when the power supply voltage of an electronic module (such as a dual in-line memory module, DIMM) in an electronic device is abnormal, its power management integrated circuit (PMIC) will immediately stop working due to the rapid drop in input voltage, resulting in the inability to save internal status information (i.e., log data) and causing loss of status information. Furthermore, after a power supply voltage abnormality, some circuit areas inside the electronic module still store residual electrical energy. If the electronic module is removed at this time, the residual electrical energy may be injected back into the PMIC, causing the PMIC to be damaged due to electrical overstress (EOS). Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a protection circuit and an electronic device.

[0004] The technical solution of this application embodiment is implemented as follows: This application provides a protection circuit applied to an electronic module. The protection circuit is connected to the electronic module and includes: The control module is configured to respond to a trigger signal indicating an abnormal input voltage of the power management unit of the electronic module, and output a control signal to the power management unit; the control signal is used to control the power management unit to stop outputting voltage. An isolation module is used to disconnect the electrical connection between the power supply providing the input voltage to the power management unit and the target power domain in response to a trigger signal indicating an abnormal input voltage of the power management unit; the target power domain is a circuit area in the electronic module that still stores electrical energy after the abnormal input voltage occurs. A power supply maintenance module is used to provide power to the power management unit in response to a trigger signal that indicates an abnormal input voltage of the power management unit, so as to maintain power to the power management unit for a target duration.

[0005] This application provides an electronic device, including: an electronic module and a protection circuit; the protection circuit is connected to the electronic module; The protection circuit includes a control module, an isolation module, and a power supply maintenance module. The control module, the isolation module, and the power supply maintenance module respond to the same trigger source and work together to perform corresponding operations to protect the electronic module when the input voltage of the power management unit of the electronic module is abnormal. Attached Figure Description

[0006] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the specification, serve to explain the technical solutions of this application. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this application, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort.

[0007] The flowcharts shown in the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative and do not necessarily include all content and operations / steps, nor do they necessarily have to be performed in the described order. For example, some operations / steps can be broken down, while others can be combined or partially combined; therefore, the actual execution order may change depending on the specific circumstances.

[0008] Figure 1 It is a power timing waveform diagram of a DIMM during power loss provided by related technologies; Figure 2 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of a protection circuit provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is a second schematic diagram of a protection circuit provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is the third schematic diagram of a protection circuit provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is the fourth schematic diagram of a protection circuit provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0009] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the specific technical solutions of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of this application. The following embodiments are used to illustrate this application, but are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0010] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this application only and is not intended to limit this application.

[0011] In the following description, references to "some embodiments," "this embodiment," "this application embodiment," and examples, etc., describe a subset of all possible embodiments. However, it is understood that "some embodiments" can be the same subset or different subsets of all possible embodiments and can be combined with each other without conflict. "A plurality" in the embodiments of this application refers to two or more integers.

[0012] To facilitate understanding of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the relevant technologies or terms of the embodiments of this application are described below. The following related technologies or related terms are optional solutions and can be combined with the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application in any way, and all of them fall within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0013] During the insertion or removal of DIMMs, improper operation can cause the DIMM to float (i.e., not grounded). In this case, the charge in the system cannot be discharged through the ground wire and will flow to the DIMM module, potentially damaging the EOS (Electronic Memory Module). Therefore, when inserting or removing DIMMs, it is necessary to ensure that both ends of the DIMM are inserted or removed simultaneously and parallel to avoid a floating state. Furthermore, after the system is powered off, the power network and the DIMM may still retain charge (i.e., residual energy). If the DIMM is inserted or removed immediately after power failure, this residual charge can also pose a risk of damage. This is especially true for Double Data Rate 5 Dual In-line Memory Modules (DDR5 DIMMs), whose gold fingers carry 12V, requiring even more careful handling compared to DDR4.

[0014] In the application scenarios of DDR5 DIMM, the inventors of this application have discovered that DIMM has at least the following two risks: On the one hand, there is a risk of residual energy causing energy loss on demand (EOS). When the 12V mains power is removed, components such as capacitors inside the DIMM may store residual energy for an extended period. If the DIMM is removed prematurely before the residual energy has completely dissipated, this residual energy may feed back into the PMIC through the power supply line, causing the PMIC to burn out due to EOS. Relevant test data shows that after power failure, the residual voltage in the power network requires a certain amount of time to discharge to a safe level. For example, in some tests, it took approximately 3 seconds for the residual voltage to drop from 12V to 1V, approximately 15 seconds to 100mV, and approximately 2 minutes to 2mV.

[0015] On the other hand, there is a risk of PMIC stress and data loss due to uncontrolled power outages. When power is suddenly lost, the power rails of the DDR5DIMM will experience hard failure, generating electrical stress and potential current injection, which can damage the PMIC. Simultaneously, the PMIC requires the input voltage to be maintained at a certain level (e.g., ≥5V) for a sufficiently long duration (e.g., ≥200ms) to retain critical status information (such as fault records, configuration parameters, and other log data) in its internal registers. If the maintenance time is insufficient, this status information will be lost.

[0016] Figure 1 This is a power timing waveform diagram of a DIMM during power loss, provided by related technologies; such as... Figure 1 As shown, after the DIMM is powered off, the input main power supply Vin_Bulk (12V) needs to remain above 5V for at least 200 milliseconds to ensure that the PMIC has enough time to save its internal state information. However, the relevant technology cannot meet this requirement. Furthermore, after the DIMM is powered off, there is still a certain residual voltage on each power rail (Vin_MGMT, CAMP, VDD, VDDQ, VPP), indicating that the DIMM stores residual energy. If the DIMM is removed at this time, the residual energy may cause an electrical overload risk.

[0017] To address the aforementioned risks, relevant technologies have proposed corresponding countermeasures. For example, DDR5 DIMMs need to meet certain sustainment time windows during power outages. Furthermore, industry guidelines recommend waiting at least 20 seconds after an AC power outage before removing DDR5 DIMMs; in some engineering practices, this waiting time can even reach approximately 2 minutes. Related operating procedures suggest developing corresponding waiting time standards based on specific system environments. However, these solutions all rely on manual waiting, which is not only time-consuming (typically requiring tens of seconds or even minutes) and inefficient, but also makes it difficult to guarantee that every operation meets safety requirements.

[0018] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a protection circuit that, when the supply voltage is abnormal, causes the power management unit to stop outputting and uses residual energy to save state information. Simultaneously, it isolates reverse current paths and maintains power supply for a target duration, thereby ensuring the complete preservation of state information and reducing the risk of damage to the power management unit due to electrical overload. The embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0019] It should be noted that the protection circuit provided in this application embodiment can be applied to various electronic modules with power management units (PMICs), such as DIMMs.

[0020] Figure 2This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of a protection circuit provided in an embodiment of this application; the protection circuit is applied to and connected to an electronic module; as shown... Figure 2 As shown, the protection circuit 200 includes: The control module 201 is configured to output a control signal to the power management unit in response to a trigger signal indicating an abnormal input voltage of the power management unit of the electronic module; the control signal is used to control the power management unit to stop outputting voltage. The isolation module 202 is used to disconnect the electrical connection between the power supply that provides the input voltage to the power management unit and the target power domain in response to a trigger signal that the input voltage of the power management unit is abnormal; the target power domain is a circuit area in the electronic module that still stores electrical energy after the input voltage is abnormal. The power supply maintenance module 203 is used to provide power to the power management unit in response to a trigger signal that the input voltage of the power management unit is abnormal, so that the power management unit can maintain power for a target duration.

[0021] It should be noted that an electronic module is an electronic component that includes a power management unit (PMIC) and requires power protection, such as a dual in-line memory module (DIMM) or other pluggable electronic components with a similar power supply architecture. The power management unit is a power management chip used to convert the input mains power (e.g., 12V) into multiple operating voltages (e.g., 1.1V, 1.8V, etc.) required by the various circuits within the electronic module.

[0022] It should be noted that the power supply providing the input voltage to the power management unit can be an external power supply that provides the main input voltage (such as 12V) to the electronic module. The target power domain is the circuit area in the electronic module that still stores electrical energy after an abnormal input voltage occurs. This area may include the energy storage elements (such as capacitors) of the power management unit.

[0023] In some embodiments, when the input voltage of the power management unit of the electronic module is lower than the rated voltage of the main power supply of the electronic module, it can be determined that the input voltage is abnormal.

[0024] In some embodiments, when the input voltage of the power management unit of the electronic module becomes abnormal, the control module 201 can receive a trigger signal indicating that the input voltage is abnormal and, in response to the trigger signal, output a control signal to the power management unit of the electronic module to control the power management unit to stop outputting voltage. The control signal can be a command signal output by the control module 201 to the power management unit, instructing the power management unit to stop outputting voltage to its load, thereby allowing the residual electrical energy inside the power management unit to be used for saving status information.

[0025] In some embodiments, when the input voltage of the power management unit of the electronic module is abnormal, the isolation module 202 can receive a trigger signal indicating that the input voltage is abnormal, and in response to the trigger signal, disconnect the electrical connection between the power supply that provides the input voltage to the power management unit and the target power domain, so as to prevent the current of the target power domain from flowing back to the power management unit through the power supply, thereby avoiding damage to the power management unit due to electrical overload (EOS).

[0026] In some embodiments, when the input voltage of the power management unit of the electronic module is abnormal, the power supply maintenance module 203 can receive the trigger signal of the abnormal input voltage and, in response to the trigger signal, provide power to the power management unit so that the power management unit can maintain power for a target duration, thereby providing the power management unit with sufficient time to complete the saving of internal state information and avoiding the incomplete saving of state information due to insufficient maintenance time.

[0027] It should be noted that the target duration can be adaptively set according to the actual application scenario, and this application embodiment does not impose specific limitations on it. In one possible implementation, the target duration is 200 milliseconds.

[0028] In some embodiments, when the electronic module is operating normally, the power supply provides an input voltage to the power management unit. The power management unit converts the input voltage into various operating voltages required by the internal circuits of the electronic module and outputs them to the corresponding load circuits. When the power supply voltage of the electronic module becomes abnormal, for example, when the output voltage of the power supply drops below a preset threshold, a trigger signal indicating an abnormal input voltage is generated in the power management unit. In response to this trigger signal, the control module 201 outputs a control signal to the power management unit. Upon receiving the control signal, the power management unit stops outputting voltage to its load circuits. At this time, the residual electrical energy stored inside the power management unit is no longer used to drive the external load but can be used to perform internal state information saving operations. Simultaneously, in response to the trigger signal, the isolation module 202 disconnects the electrical connection between the power supply and the target power domain. During normal operation of the electronic module, the power supply provides an input voltage to the power management unit through the electrical connection and also charges the energy storage components (e.g., capacitors) in the target power domain. When the input voltage of the power management unit (Power Management Unit) becomes abnormal, electrical energy is still stored in the target power domain. If the electrical connection is not disconnected, the current in the target power domain may flow in reverse through the power supply to the Power Management Unit, causing electrical overload damage. Therefore, the isolation module 202 disconnects the electrical connection to block the path of the reverse current, thereby protecting the Power Management Unit from overload risk. Furthermore, the power supply maintenance module 203 also responds to the trigger signal and continuously supplies power to the Power Management Unit for the target duration. After the Power Management Unit stops outputting voltage, the residual electrical energy inside is limited and may not be sufficient to support the retention of its internal state information. The power supply maintenance module 203 provides additional power supply for the target duration to ensure that the Power Management Unit remains energized throughout the state information retention process. When the target duration ends, the Power Management Unit has completed the retention of its internal state information, and at this point, the power supply maintenance module 203 stops supplying power.

[0029] In this embodiment, when the input voltage of the power management unit of the electronic module becomes abnormal, the control module, in response to the trigger signal indicating the abnormal input voltage, outputs a control signal to the power management unit to stop outputting voltage. At this time, the power management unit no longer supplies power to the external load, and its residual internal energy is retained, which can be used to perform the saving operation of internal state information. Simultaneously, the isolation module, also in response to the trigger signal indicating the abnormal input voltage of the power management unit, disconnects the electrical connection between the power supply providing the input voltage to the power management unit and the target power domain, thereby preventing current from the target power domain from flowing back to the power management unit through the power supply and avoiding electrical overload damage. At the same time, the power supply maintenance module, also in response to the trigger signal indicating the abnormal input voltage of the power management unit, provides power to the power management unit for a target duration, maintaining power for that duration. This provides the power management unit with sufficient time to complete the saving of its internal state information, avoiding incomplete saving of state information due to insufficient maintenance time. Thus, through the coordinated operation of the control module, isolation module, and power supply maintenance module, this embodiment of the application ensures the complete preservation of the internal state information of the power management unit when the input voltage of the power management unit is abnormal, and reduces the risk of damage to the power management unit due to electrical overload.

[0030] It should be noted that an abnormal input voltage of the power management unit does not only refer to a complete interruption of the power supply voltage or a sudden drop in voltage to zero. Abnormal input voltage conditions also include, but are not limited to: overvoltage conditions where the input voltage momentarily exceeds the rated withstand limit; transient glitches caused by switching noise, etc.; slow voltage drops due to insufficient power supply or output power attenuation; and hard power outages caused by power line interruptions or sudden power supply failures. All of the above-mentioned abnormalities fall within the scope of the abnormalities responded to by the trigger signal in the embodiments of this application.

[0031] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the protection circuit 200 further includes: The discharge module 204 is used to discharge the residual electrical energy in the target power domain of the electronic module after the power supply maintenance module 203 has completed the power supply for the target duration.

[0032] It should be noted that the discharge module 204 is a circuit or functional unit used to discharge the residual electrical energy stored in the target power domain of the electronic module after the power supply maintenance module 203 has completed the power supply for the target duration. Its function is to eliminate residual electrical energy and prevent damage caused by electrical overload due to residual energy when the electronic module is removed.

[0033] In some embodiments, the discharge module 204 is connected to the target power domain. After the power supply maintenance module 203 completes the power supply for the target duration, the discharge module 204 is activated to discharge the residual electrical energy stored in the target power domain to a reference potential (e.g., ground), thereby reducing the voltage of the target power domain to a safe level.

[0034] For example, when the input voltage of the power management unit of an electronic module becomes abnormal and a target time (e.g., 200ms) has elapsed, the power management unit has completed saving its internal state information. At this time, residual electrical energy may still be stored in the target power domain. If the electronic module is removed at this time (e.g., unplugged from the system), the residual electrical energy may damage the electronic module or other circuits. Therefore, the discharge module 204 is activated at this moment to quickly discharge the residual electrical energy in the target power domain, thereby eliminating the potential risks posed by the residual electrical energy.

[0035] It should be noted that the discharge module 204 can employ various methods to discharge residual energy in the target power domain. For example, the discharge module 204 can connect the target power domain to a reference potential by turning on a controllable switch (such as a transistor) upon receiving a start signal, thereby discharging residual energy. This application does not specifically limit the discharge method used for residual energy in its embodiments.

[0036] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the protection circuit 200 further includes: The detection module 205 is connected to the control module 201, the isolation module 202 and the power supply maintenance module 203, and is used to detect the input voltage of the power management unit, and when an abnormal input voltage is detected, output a trigger signal indicating that the input voltage is abnormal to the control module 201, the isolation module 202 and the power supply maintenance module 203.

[0037] It should be noted that the detection module 205 is a circuit or functional unit used to monitor the input voltage of the power management unit and generate a trigger signal when the input voltage is abnormal. Its function is to serve as the starting source for the protection circuit, providing a unified trigger signal for the control module 201, the isolation module 202, and the power supply maintenance module 203.

[0038] In some embodiments, the detection module 205 can monitor the input voltage of the power management unit in real time. When the input voltage is normal (e.g., the input voltage is within the normal operating range), the detection module 205 does not output a trigger signal, the protection circuit does not activate, and the electronic module is in normal operating condition. When the power supply of the electronic module is abnormal, for example, when the output voltage of the power supply drops below a preset threshold, the detection module 205 detects the abnormal change in the input voltage. Specifically, the detection module 205 can compare the input voltage with a preset threshold, and when the input voltage is lower than the preset threshold, it determines that the input voltage is abnormal. After detecting that the input voltage is abnormal, the detection module 205 generates a trigger signal and outputs the trigger signal to the control module 201, the isolation module 202, and the power supply maintenance module 203. The control module 201, the isolation module 202, and the power supply maintenance module 203 respond to the trigger signal output by the detection module 205 and perform corresponding protection operations (see the description of the foregoing embodiments for details, which will not be repeated here).

[0039] In some embodiments, the detection module 205 can compare the input voltage of the power management unit with a reference voltage using a comparator to determine whether the input voltage is abnormal.

[0040] In some embodiments, the detection module 205 can detect the power state signal through digital logic circuits (such as Schmitt triggers) to generate a trigger signal.

[0041] It should be noted that the detection method of the detection module 205 can be selected according to actual needs, as long as it can generate a trigger signal when the input voltage of the power management unit is abnormal. This application embodiment does not make specific limitations on this.

[0042] It is understood that in this embodiment, the detection module 205 generates a trigger signal when it detects an abnormality in the input voltage of the power management unit. The control module 201 responds to the trigger signal to control the power management unit to stop outputting voltage so as to use its internal residual energy to save state information. The isolation module 202 responds to the trigger signal to disconnect the electrical connection between the power supply and the target power domain to prevent residual energy from being injected back into the power management unit. The power supply maintenance module 203 responds to the trigger signal to provide power to the power management unit within a target duration to ensure that it remains powered within the target duration. This provides the power management unit with sufficient time to complete the saving of its internal state information, realizes the complete saving of the internal state information of the power management unit when the power supply voltage is abnormal, and reduces the risk of damage to the power management unit due to electrical overload.

[0043] In some embodiments, the detection module 205 is further configured to: latch the event of an abnormal input voltage when an abnormal input voltage is detected.

[0044] In this embodiment, when the detection module 205 detects an abnormal input voltage, it can also latch the abnormal event of the abnormal input voltage. Latching means maintaining the abnormal state so that even after the input voltage briefly recovers, the trigger signal remains valid, thereby preventing the protection circuit from erroneously tripping due to power supply fluctuations. By latching the abnormal event, it can be ensured that once the protection circuit is triggered, it continuously executes the complete protection process without interruption due to brief fluctuations in the input voltage, thus improving the reliability of the protection.

[0045] In some embodiments, the detection module 205 can implement a latching function using a latch, which is used to store and maintain the state of abnormal events. The latch can be an asynchronous set latch. When the detection module 205 detects an abnormal input voltage, the latch is set, and its output continuously outputs a trigger signal. After the abnormal event is processed (e.g., after the protection circuit completes all protection processes), the latch can be reset using a reset signal to return it to its initial state, waiting for the next abnormal event to occur.

[0046] It should be noted that the specific implementation method of the latching function of the detection module 205 is not specifically limited in this application embodiment, as long as it can latch the abnormal event and keep the trigger signal continuously valid.

[0047] In some embodiments, when the detection module 205 detects that the input voltage is lower than a preset threshold, the latch in the detection module 205 is set to trigger the latching function, locking the state of the abnormal event. Simultaneously, the latch outputs a trigger signal. Once the latch is set, its output continuously outputs the trigger signal until a reset signal is received. By latching the abnormal event, even if the input voltage briefly recovers, the latch output retains a valid trigger signal, ensuring that the protection circuit continuously executes the complete protection process.

[0048] In some embodiments, the control signal is further used to: control the power management unit to shut down multiple voltage output channels on the power management unit in a target sequence to stop the output voltage.

[0049] It should be noted that the target sequence refers to the predetermined order in which the power management unit (Power Management Unit) shuts down its multiple voltage output channels. This sequence can be determined based on the power management architecture of the electronic module, the dependencies between the voltage output channels, and their electrical characteristics (such as voltage magnitude and current capability). Its purpose is to avoid voltage backlash or current injection that may occur when multiple voltage output channels are simultaneously shut down, thereby reducing the electrical stress on the internal circuitry of the Power Management Unit and the load circuitry. A voltage output channel refers to the various output paths through which the Power Management Unit provides operating voltage to the load circuits within the electronic module; each output path corresponds to a specific voltage. Each output voltage is transmitted to its corresponding load circuit through its respective output channel.

[0050] In some embodiments, the control module 201 can output a control signal to the power management unit. When the power management unit receives the control signal, it sequentially shuts down multiple voltage output channels according to a predetermined target order. The target order can be set based on the electrical dependencies between the voltage output channels. For example, the power management unit can first shut down the input / output interface voltage (VDDQ) channel, then the core voltage (VDD) channel, and finally the word line drive voltage (VPP) channel, or shut down the channels in other suitable orders. Those skilled in the art can set a suitable shutdown order according to actual system requirements and circuit characteristics, and this application embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0051] In some embodiments, the target sequence can be pre-configured in the internal registers of the power management unit, or indicated by instruction information carried by control signals. When the power management unit receives a control signal, it performs shutdown operations according to the target sequence.

[0052] It is understood that the embodiments of this application control the power management unit to shut down multiple voltage output channels in a target order through control signals. This can avoid voltage backlash or current injection when multiple voltage output channels are shut down at the same time, reduce electrical stress on the internal circuitry and load circuitry of the power management unit, and thus reduce the risk of damage to the power management unit.

[0053] In some embodiments, the power supply maintenance module 203 is further configured to: maintain the voltage of the power management unit above the target voltage value within the target duration.

[0054] It should be noted that the target voltage value refers to the minimum voltage level that the power management unit (PMU) needs to maintain within a target duration. This voltage value ensures that the PMU can maintain normal operation even after an abnormal input voltage, thus enabling the preservation of internal state information. The target voltage value can be set according to the minimum operating voltage requirements of the PMU and the load conditions. For example, setting the target voltage value to 5V ensures that the voltage of the PMU does not fall below 5V within the target duration, thereby ensuring that the PMU can operate normally and preserve its internal state information. In practical applications, the target voltage value can also be set to 4V or 6V, or other suitable voltage values, as long as it meets the normal operation requirements of the PMU within the target duration. This application does not limit the specific value of the target voltage value.

[0055] In this embodiment, the power supply maintenance module 203 can respond to a trigger signal that the input voltage of the power management unit is abnormal, provide power to the power management unit, and maintain the voltage of the power management unit at no lower than the target voltage value within a target duration, so as to ensure that the power management unit can work normally to complete the saving of internal state information.

[0056] In some embodiments, the isolation module 202 includes an ideal diode switch connected between the power supply and the target power domain; the ideal diode switch is used to turn off when the input voltage is abnormal, so as to block the current from flowing back from the target power domain to the power supply.

[0057] It should be noted that an ideal diode switch is a controllable switching device that simulates the unidirectional conduction characteristics of an ideal diode. Compared to ordinary diodes, ideal diode switches have extremely low forward voltage drop (close to zero) when conducting and extremely high reverse impedance when turned off, effectively blocking reverse current. An ideal diode switch can be constructed from a power switching transistor (such as a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor, MOSFET) and its control circuit. By detecting the voltage difference across its terminals, the switching transistor is controlled to turn on and off, thereby achieving unidirectional conduction and reverse blocking.

[0058] In some embodiments, an ideal diode switch is connected between the power supply and the target power domain. When the electronic module is operating normally, the ideal diode switch is in the ON state, and the power supply supplies power to the target power domain through the ideal diode switch. At this time, due to the extremely low forward voltage drop of the ideal diode switch, the voltage of the power supply is transmitted to the target power domain with almost no loss. When an abnormality occurs in the input voltage (e.g., a voltage drop or removal of the power supply), the voltage of the target power domain may be higher than the voltage of the power supply. In this case, the ideal diode switch turns off in response to a trigger signal, blocking the electrical connection between the target power domain and the power supply, thereby preventing current from flowing back from the target power domain to the power supply. Because the ideal diode switch has extremely high reverse impedance in the OFF state, the electrical energy stored in the target power domain cannot be injected back into the power management unit through the power supply line, thereby preventing damage to the power management unit due to electrical overload.

[0059] In some embodiments, an ideal diode switch may include a power switch (e.g., a MOSFET) and control circuitry for controlling the power switch. The power switch is connected between a power supply and a target power domain, serving as the main power path. The control circuitry detects the voltage difference across the power switch and controls the power switch to turn off when the voltage difference indicates that the current direction is from the target power domain to the power supply.

[0060] It is understood that, by connecting an ideal diode switch between the power supply and the target power domain, the electronic module can operate normally with the ideal diode switch conducting. In case of an abnormality, the ideal diode switch is turned off, blocking the electrical connection between the target power domain and the power supply, thereby achieving the function of unidirectional conduction and reverse blocking. Furthermore, due to its extremely low forward voltage drop, it avoids the energy loss of ordinary diodes when conducting.

[0061] In some embodiments, the isolation module 202 may also be any of the switching devices such as load switches, relays, or other controlled unidirectional isolation structures, as long as it can be controlled to shut down when the input voltage of the power management unit is abnormal, so as to block the current from flowing back from the target power domain to the power supply.

[0062] In some embodiments, the power supply maintenance module 203 includes an energy storage unit, which is electrically connected to the power management unit and connected to the power supply through the isolation module 202. The energy storage unit is used to be charged by the power supply when the input voltage is normal and to discharge to the power management unit when the input voltage is abnormal.

[0063] It should be noted that the energy storage unit can be a component or circuit for storing electrical energy, capable of obtaining and storing electrical energy from the power supply when the input voltage is normal, and releasing the stored electrical energy to the load when the input voltage is abnormal. In the embodiments of this application, the energy storage unit is used to provide electrical energy to the power management unit when the input voltage is abnormal, so as to maintain its normal operation within a target duration.

[0064] In some embodiments, the energy storage unit uses a capacitor to store electrical energy. When the input voltage of the power management unit is normal, the capacitor obtains and stores electrical energy from the power supply; when the input voltage of the power management unit is abnormal, the capacitor releases the stored electrical energy to the power management unit to provide power to the power management unit.

[0065] In some embodiments, the energy storage unit uses an energy storage circuit to store electrical energy. This energy storage circuit can be composed of multiple capacitors connected in parallel. Compared to a single capacitor element, this energy storage circuit can increase the energy storage capacity and enhance the instantaneous discharge capability. When the input voltage of the power management unit is normal, the energy storage circuit obtains and stores electrical energy from the power supply; when the input voltage of the power management unit is abnormal, the energy storage circuit releases the stored electrical energy to the power management unit to provide power to the power management unit.

[0066] In this embodiment, the energy storage unit is connected to the power supply via an isolation module 202; that is, the connection path between the energy storage unit and the power supply passes through the isolation module 202. When the input voltage is normal, the isolation module 202 is turned on, allowing the power supply to charge the energy storage unit, which then stores electrical energy. Simultaneously, the power supply also supplies power to the power management unit via the isolation module 202, enabling the power management unit to operate normally. When the input voltage becomes abnormal, the isolation module 202 shuts off in response to a trigger signal, disconnecting the power supply from the energy storage unit. At this time, the electrical energy stored in the energy storage unit discharges to the power management unit through its electrical connection with the power management unit, maintaining the power management unit's normal operation within a target duration and completing the storage of its internal state information.

[0067] In some embodiments, the energy storage unit may include at least one capacitor. One end of the capacitor is connected to the input terminal of the power management unit, and the other end is connected to a reference potential (e.g., ground). When the electronic module is operating normally, the power supply charges the capacitor through the isolation module; when an abnormal input voltage occurs, the capacitor discharges to the power management unit through its electrical connection with the input terminal of the power management unit.

[0068] It should be noted that the energy storage unit may include one capacitor or multiple capacitors (e.g., multiple capacitors connected in parallel), and this application does not specifically limit this. Those skilled in the art can reasonably configure the number and capacity of capacitors according to parameters such as the power consumption, target duration, and target voltage value of the power management unit in actual applications, so that the electrical energy stored in the capacitors is sufficient to maintain the voltage of the power management unit above the target voltage value within the target duration.

[0069] In some embodiments, the discharge module 204 includes a timer and a discharge switch, the output of the timer is connected to the control terminal of the discharge switch, and the discharge switch is connected to the target power domain; The timer is used to start timing when the input voltage is abnormal, and to control the discharge switch to turn on after the target duration to release the residual electrical energy in the target power domain.

[0070] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the timer is used to start timing when an abnormal input voltage occurs, and outputs a control signal after the target duration is reached to control the discharge switch to turn on. The timer can be implemented using an analog timing circuit (such as an RC delay circuit) or a digital timing circuit (such as a counter).

[0071] A discharge switch is a controllable switching element used to control the opening and closing of a discharge path. In the embodiments of this application, the discharge switch is connected between the target power domain and a reference potential. When the discharge switch is turned on, the residual electrical energy in the target power domain is discharged to the reference potential through the discharge path. The discharge switch can be implemented using a controllable switch such as a transistor (e.g., a MOSFET).

[0072] The timer's output is connected to the control terminal of the discharge switch, so that the control signal output by the timer can directly control the discharge switch to turn on and off.

[0073] The discharge switch is connected to the target power domain so that when the discharge switch is turned on, the residual electrical energy in the target power domain can be discharged through the discharge switch.

[0074] In some embodiments, when the input voltage of the power management unit is abnormal, the timer starts timing in response to a trigger signal from the detection module 205. During the timing period (i.e., within the target duration), the output of the timer remains in a first level state (e.g., low level), and the discharge switch remains in the off state. At this time, the discharge path is disconnected, and the electrical energy in the target power domain will not be discharged through the discharge module 204, thereby ensuring that the power management unit can obtain sufficient electrical energy to complete the storage of internal state information within the target duration. When the timer reaches the target duration, the output of the timer switches from the first level state to a second level state (e.g., from low level to high level), and the discharge switch turns on in response to the second level state. After the discharge switch turns on, the discharge path between the target power domain and the reference potential is connected, and the residual electrical energy stored in the target power domain is discharged to the reference potential through the discharge switch, thereby reducing the voltage of the target power domain to a safe level.

[0075] In some embodiments, the discharge switch may include a transistor (e.g., an N-type metal-oxide-semiconductor (NMOS) transistor or a P-type metal-oxide-semiconductor (PMOS) transistor). The transistor's control terminal (e.g., gate) is connected to the timer's output, its first terminal (e.g., drain or source) is connected to the target power domain, and its second terminal (e.g., source or drain) is connected to a reference potential. When the timer outputs a second-level state, the transistor turns on, and residual energy in the target power domain is discharged to the reference potential through the transistor.

[0076] In some embodiments, the discharge module 204 may also include a current limiting element (e.g., a resistor), which is connected in series with the discharge switch between the target power domain and the reference potential to limit the current during the discharge process and prevent excessive discharge current from impacting the circuit.

[0077] The following examples illustrate possible implementation schemes of the protection circuit described in one or more of the above embodiments.

[0078] Figure 5 This is the fourth schematic diagram of a protection circuit provided in the embodiments of this application; as shown Figure 5 As shown, the protection circuit includes a detection module 205, a control module 201, an isolation module 202 (implemented using an ideal diode switch), a power supply maintenance module 203, and a discharge module 204. Wherein: The detection module 205 includes a Schmitt trigger U1 and an asynchronous latch U2. The input of the Schmitt trigger U1 receives the SYS_PWR_OK signal (a power status signal from the motherboard). When the SYS_PWR_OK signal is de-asserted, the output of the Schmitt trigger U1 triggers the asynchronous latch U2 to set, and the output Q of U2 outputs the FAIL_LATCH_SIG signal. This signal changes from its default state of 0 to 1 and is latched. The latched state will not be triggered repeatedly; even if the SYS_PWR_OK signal briefly recovers, the FAIL_LATCH_SIG signal remains valid, thus ensuring that subsequent protection procedures can continue to execute.

[0079] The control module 201 includes an NMOS transistor Q_CAMP and its gate pull-up resistor R_PU_CAMP. After the FAIL_LATCH_SIG signal is transmitted to the gate of Q_CAMP, Q_CAMP turns on, forcibly pulling the CAMP signal low. After the CAMP signal is pulled low, the power management unit initiates a controlled shutdown procedure, shutting down its multiple voltage output channels in a predetermined sequence to stop the output voltage, thereby preventing a hard crash of the power rail.

[0080] The isolation module 202 includes an ideal diode U3 (hot-swappable switch). The ideal diode U3 is connected between the power supply and the DIMM_VIN_BULK node (i.e., the target power domain node), and its control terminal CTL receives the FAIL_LATCH_SIG signal. When FAIL_LATCH_SIG is high, U3 is turned off, disconnecting the electrical connection between the power supply and the DIMM_VIN_BULK node, blocking the reverse feedthrough path, and allowing only the necessary keep-alive power rails (such as those powering detection circuits, latches, timers, etc.) to maintain power. This prevents the electrical energy stored in the target power domain from flowing back to the power management unit through the power supply, avoiding damage to the power management unit due to electrical overload.

[0081] Power supply maintenance module 203 includes an energy storage unit (e.g., a capacitor bank, Figure 5The diagram shows multiple parallel capacitors connected to the DIMM_VIN_BULK node. One end of the energy storage unit is connected to the DIMM_VIN_BULK node (i.e., the input of the power management unit), and the other end is grounded and connected to the power supply through an ideal diode U3. When the input voltage is normal, U3 is turned on, and the energy storage unit is charged by the power supply; when the input voltage is abnormal, U3 is turned off, and the energy storage unit discharges to the DIMM_VIN_BULK node to maintain the voltage of the power management unit at or above the target voltage value (e.g., ≥5V) for the target duration (e.g., ≥200ms). This provides the power management unit with sufficient time to save its internal state information (e.g., log data stored in registers R04, R05, and R06 as specified in the JEDEC standard), thus avoiding loss of state information due to insufficient maintenance time.

[0082] The discharge module 204 includes a timer U4, an NMOS transistor Q_DIS (discharge switch), and a current-limiting resistor R. OLS The trigger input of timer U4 receives the FAIL_LATCH_SIG signal. When FAIL_LATCH_SIG is high, U4 starts timing. During the target duration (e.g., 200ms), the output of U4 remains low, and Q_DIS remains off. When the target duration is reached, the output of U4 switches from low to high, turning on Q_DIS. The drain of Q_DIS is connected to the DIMM_VIN_BULK node (i.e., the target power domain), and the source is connected to the current-limiting resistor R. OLS Grounding. After Q_DIS is turned on, the residual electrical energy on the DIMM_VIN_BULK node passes through Q_DIS and R. OLS The DIMM_VIN_BULK is discharged to ground, reaching a predetermined shutdown state (e.g., safe low voltage) to avoid residual energy or voltage tailing. This timed discharge operation eliminates the risk of electrical overload that could result from residual energy, ensuring the safe removal of the DIMM.

[0083] Based on the same inventive concept as the foregoing embodiments, this application provides an electronic device.

[0084] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 The electronic device 600 shown includes an electronic module 300 and a protection circuit 200; the protection circuit 200 is connected to the electronic module 300. The protection circuit 200 includes a control module 201, an isolation module 202, and a power supply maintenance module 203. The control module 201, the isolation module 202, and the power supply maintenance module 203 respond to the same trigger source and cooperate to perform corresponding operations when the input voltage of the power management unit 301 of the electronic module 300 is abnormal, thereby protecting the electronic module 300.

[0085] In this embodiment, when the input voltage of the power management unit 301 of the electronic module 300 becomes abnormal, the control module 201, the isolation module 202, and the power supply maintenance module 203 can simultaneously respond to the trigger signal indicating the abnormal input voltage. Specifically, the control module 201 can output a control signal to the power management unit 301 to stop outputting voltage, thus allowing the residual electrical energy inside the power management unit 301 to be used for saving state information. The isolation module 202 can disconnect the electrical connection between the power supply providing the input voltage to the power management unit 301 and the target power domain to prevent current from the target power domain from flowing back to the power management unit 301 through the power supply, thereby avoiding damage to the power management unit 301 due to electrical overload. The power supply maintenance module 203 can supply electrical energy to the power management unit 301 to maintain its voltage above the target voltage value for a target duration, ensuring that the power management unit 301 can operate normally within the target duration to complete the saving of internal state information.

[0086] It should be noted that for any technical details not disclosed in the electronic device of this application, please refer to the description of the foregoing embodiments for understanding, and for the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0087] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A protection circuit applied to an electronic module, the protection circuit being connected to the electronic module, the protection circuit comprising: The control module is used to output a control signal to the power management unit in response to a trigger signal indicating an abnormal input voltage of the power management unit of the electronic module. The control signal is used to control the power management unit to stop outputting voltage; An isolation module is used to disconnect the electrical connection between the power supply providing the input voltage to the power management unit and the target power domain in response to a trigger signal indicating an abnormal input voltage of the power management unit; the target power domain is a circuit area in the electronic module that still stores electrical energy after the abnormal input voltage occurs. A power supply maintenance module is used to provide power to the power management unit in response to a trigger signal that indicates an abnormal input voltage of the power management unit, so as to maintain power to the power management unit for a target duration.

2. The protection circuit according to claim 1, further comprising: A discharge module is used to discharge residual electrical energy in the target power domain of the electronic module after the power supply maintenance module has completed the power supply for the target duration.

3. The protection circuit according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: The detection module, connected to the control module, the isolation module, and the power supply maintenance module, is used to detect the input voltage of the power management unit and, if an abnormality is detected in the input voltage, output a trigger signal indicating that the input voltage is abnormal to the control module, the isolation module, and the power supply maintenance module.

4. The protection circuit according to claim 3, wherein the detection module is further configured to: latch the event of the abnormal input voltage when an abnormal input voltage is detected.

5. The protection circuit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control signal is further used to: control the power management unit to shut down multiple voltage output channels on the power management unit in a target sequence to stop the output voltage.

6. The protection circuit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the power supply maintenance module is further configured to: maintain the voltage of the power management unit above the target voltage value within the target duration.

7. The protection circuit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the isolation module includes an ideal diode switch connected between the power supply and the target power domain; the ideal diode switch is used to turn off when the input voltage is abnormal, so as to block the current from flowing in reverse from the target power domain to the power supply.

8. The protection circuit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the power supply maintenance module includes an energy storage unit, the energy storage unit is electrically connected to the power management unit and connected to the power supply through the isolation module, for charging by the power supply when the input voltage is normal and discharging to the power management unit when the input voltage is abnormal.

9. The protection circuit according to claim 2, wherein the discharge module includes a timer and a discharge switch, the output terminal of the timer is connected to the control terminal of the discharge switch, and the discharge switch is connected to the target power domain; The timer is used to start timing when the input voltage is abnormal, and to control the discharge switch to turn on after the target duration to release the residual electrical energy in the target power domain.

10. An electronic device, comprising: Electronic modules and protection circuits; The protection circuit is connected to the electronic module; The protection circuit includes: a control module, an isolation module, and a power supply maintenance module; The control module, the isolation module, and the power supply maintenance module respond to the same trigger source and work together to perform corresponding operations to protect the electronic module when the input voltage of the power management unit of the electronic module is abnormal.

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