Charge Sharing Circuit for Low-Power Memory Signal Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
In memory systems, precharging lines to a logic high level results in significant power consumption, especially in long lines, as the charge required to maintain the precharged level is wasted when switching to a logic low, which is problematic for battery-powered devices that require improved power efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A charge sharing circuit is introduced that compares data signals on complementary lines and shares charge between them based on the comparison of current and new data signals, reducing the voltage needed to switch logic levels and thereby minimizing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If lines are precharged to a logic high level, then data signals can be reliably provided between devices, but power consumption increases significantly especially in long lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the voltage parameter of the precharge operation from a full logic high level to a reduced voltage level. This parameter change allows the line to be prepared for signal transmission without consuming the full charge that would otherwise be wasted, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining reliable data signal provision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by precharging lines to a reduced voltage level before actual data transmission. This preliminary preparation at a lower energy state avoids the need to later discharge full logic high charge, thus reducing overall power consumption while still enabling reliable data signal provision when needed.
2Length of stationary object
If the length of the line is increased, then more devices can be connected and data can be transmitted over longer distances, but the charge required to precharge and discharge the line increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by reducing the voltage level used for precharging long lines. Since charge consumption is proportional to both capacitance (which increases with line length) and voltage, reducing the voltage parameter significantly decreases the energy loss in long lines while still maintaining functional data transmission capability.
3Speed
If operating speed is increased, then device performance improves, but power consumption increases due to faster charging and discharging cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the voltage parameter of the precharge operation to a reduced level. This parameter change reduces the amount of charge that needs to be discharged during normal operation, thereby reducing power consumption even at high operating speeds where frequent charging and discharging cycles occur.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The charge sharing circuit reduces the amount of charge required to precharge and drive lines to new logic levels, leading to lower power consumption and improved efficiency in memory systems, particularly in battery-powered devices.
Implementation Method 1
A charge sharing circuit is introduced that compares data signals on complementary lines and shares charge between them based on the comparison of current and new data signals
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods for charge sharing, between signal lines are disclosed. An example apparatus may include first and second lines and a charge sharing circuit. The charge sharing circuit may be coupled to the first line and the second line and configured to receive a first data signal and a second data signal. The charge sharing circuit may be further configured to cause charge to be shared between the first line and the second line responsive, at least in part, to the first data signal and the second data signal having different logic levels.