Clock Distribution System Configuration for IC Power Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated circuits face inefficiencies in clock distribution systems due to multiple configurations that satisfy demand indications for clock frequencies, leading to varying power consumption, with existing methods lacking a systematic approach to select the most energy-efficient configuration based on estimated power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for configuring a clock distribution system by receiving demand indications for clock frequencies, selecting a configuration based on estimated power consumption, and providing configuration settings to optimize energy efficiency, which includes putting unused components into a power-saving state and selecting configurations with lower power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple configurations are provided to satisfy different clock frequency demands, then the adaptability of the clock distribution system is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple selectable configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The clock distribution system implements dynamic configuration selection based on real-time power consumption estimates. The system evaluates multiple configurations and dynamically selects the optimal one that satisfies clock frequency demands while minimizing power consumption, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity through runtime optimization
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the clock distribution system by selecting different configurations based on estimated power consumption. This parameter change approach allows the system to maintain adaptability across different clock frequency requirements while managing complexity through systematic parameter evaluation and selection
2Ease of operation
If configurations are selected without considering power consumption, then the ease of operation is improved, but the energy efficiency deteriorates due to higher power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically evaluating its own configurations and selecting the optimal one based on estimated power consumption. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual intervention while simultaneously optimizing energy efficiency, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and energy efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by using estimated power consumption information to guide configuration selection. This feedback loop allows the system to automatically adjust its configuration based on power consumption estimates, achieving both ease of operation and improved energy efficiency without requiring external control
Data Source
AI summary
A method for configuring a clock distribution system for an integrated circuit involves receiving an indication of frequencies of clock signal to supply to devices on the integrated circuit, selecting a configuration for the clock distribution system based on the frequencies required by the devices and an estimated power consumption, and providing an indication of the selected configuration for configuring the clock distribution system.