Centralized Trim Controller for Analog Module Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional analog modules in integrated circuits face inefficiencies in trim data management, including inefficient boot times, data loss during power gating, vulnerability to tampering, and reliance on documentation for calibration, due to the spread of trim registers and lack of secure protection mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A centralized trim controller module is implemented in a non-switchable power domain, coupled with a nonvolatile memory to store and manage trim data efficiently, providing trim values to analog modules as sideband signals and incorporating secure locking mechanisms to protect against unauthorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If trim registers are spread across different analog modules, then each module can have local trim storage, but the data copy operation becomes inefficient and boot time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates all trim registers into a single centralized location within one analog module rather than distributing them across multiple modules. This merging approach allows the CPU to perform a single efficient data copy operation from flash memory to the centralized trim registers during boot, significantly reducing boot time while eliminating the need for multiple scatter-gather copy operations across distributed registers.
2Loss of energy
If trim registers are located in switchable power domains, then power saving is achieved, but trim data is lost during power gating and reinitialization is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the system into two distinct power domains: a non-switchable power domain for the centralized trim controller and trim registers, and switchable power domains for the analog modules. This segmentation ensures that trim data is stored in a always-on domain that retains data during power gating, while still allowing the analog modules to be powered down for energy saving. The trim controller continuously provides trim values to powered-up modules without requiring data reinitialization.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If inline passwords are used for trim protection, then some security is provided, but the protection is weak and tampering can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dedicated trim controller as an intermediary between the flash memory trim sector and the analog module trim registers. This centralized controller implements strong password-based authentication and authorization mechanisms that mediate all access to trim data. The controller verifies passwords before allowing any trim register accesses, providing robust protection against tampering that exceeds the capability of simple inline passwords within individual modules.
4Ease of operation
If documentation is required for trim usage, then proper calibration can be guided, but system integrators cannot access trim features without documentation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service trim management system where the centralized trim controller automatically handles all trim data storage, retrieval, and protection mechanisms. The controller provides standardized interfaces and automatic password management that eliminate the need for integrators to consult external documentation. The system automatically guides calibration operations through its integrated architecture, making trim features accessible without requiring separate documentation references.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to a system that includes a centralized trim controller and a non-volatile memory that includes a trim sector configured for hosting trim data for one or more peripherals. The trim controller is configured to receive, for each of the one or more peripherals, trim values of the one or more peripherals from the trim sector of the nonvolatile memory, and provide the trim values to the one or more peripherals. Some trim values are updateable by receiving a password at the trim controller. If the password is valid, a timeout counter is initiated, during which time the trim value is updateable.