Capacitive Node Voltage Swing Control Without Speed Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for reducing power consumption in portable electronic devices, such as wireless telephones and PDAs, often compromise circuit speed or increase design complexity by attempting to minimize voltage swing, and introducing multiple power supplies can escalate costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A circuit device and method that utilize a voltage level adjustment element to regulate the electrical discharge path of a capacitive node, preventing complete discharge and thereby reducing voltage swing without impacting speed, achieved through selective activation and programmable control of the discharge path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If voltage swing is reduced to decrease power consumption, then power consumption decreases, but circuit speed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the voltage parameter by introducing a voltage level adjustment element that modifies the discharge path of the capacitive node. This element prevents complete discharge, maintaining a residual voltage level that reduces voltage swing while preserving sufficient voltage for circuit operation, thereby reducing power consumption without significantly impacting circuit speed
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage level adjustment element acts as an intermediary between the capacitive node and ground. It selectively activates to provide a controlled discharge path that limits voltage swing, serving as a mediator that reconciles the conflict between power reduction and speed maintenance by preventing full discharge while allowing partial discharge
2Use of energy by moving object
If multiple power supplies are introduced to reduce voltage swing, then voltage swing is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the voltage swing reduction function with the existing single power supply architecture by introducing a voltage level adjustment element that works within the existing power supply framework. This element combines the functions of power management and voltage control, achieving voltage swing reduction without requiring multiple separate power supplies
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage level adjustment element provides self-service by automatically regulating the discharge path based on circuit conditions. It selectively activates to prevent complete discharge of the capacitive node, thereby self-managing the voltage swing control without requiring complex external power supply infrastructure
Data Source
AI summary
In particular illustrative embodiments, circuit devices and methods of controlling a voltage swing are disclosed. The method includes receiving a signal at an input of a digital circuit device including a capacitive node. The method also includes selectively activating a voltage level adjustment element to regulate an electrical discharge path from the capacitive node to an electrical ground to prevent complete discharge of the capacitive node. In a particular illustrative embodiment, the received signal may be a clock signal.