Semiconductor Clock Frequency Switching via Low-Power Mode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor devices malfunction when they immediately change clock signal frequencies in response to command address signals without adequate preparation, leading to synchronization issues.
Innovation Solution
A method where a first semiconductor device provides a command address signal for frequency change to a second semiconductor device, delaying the actual frequency change until the second device enters a low power mode, ensuring synchronized operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the second semiconductor device immediately changes clock frequency in response to a command address signal, then the clock frequency changes quickly, but synchronization issues and malfunctions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system enters a low power mode before changing the clock frequency. This preliminary action prepares the semiconductor device by stabilizing its internal state and ensuring all circuits are ready for the frequency transition, thereby preventing synchronization issues while still achieving relatively quick frequency changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The clock frequency change is performed in periodic cycles: enter low power mode → change frequency → exit low power mode → return to normal operation. This periodic structure ensures that frequency changes only occur when the system is in a stable, prepared state, maintaining synchronization while enabling frequency adaptability.
2Loss of time
If the semiconductor device changes frequency mode immediately upon receiving a command address signal, then the response time is reduced, but malfunctions occur due to inadequate preparation
Solution Approach 1:
The low power mode entry serves as a preliminary preparation step before frequency change. During this brief interval, the device stabilizes its internal circuits and ensures readiness for the upcoming frequency transition, minimizing the risk of malfunctions while keeping the overall delay acceptable.
Solution Approach 2:
The low power mode acts as a cushioning period that absorbs the shock of frequency change. By entering this protective state beforehand, the device ensures that no critical operations are interrupted during the frequency transition, thereby preventing malfunctions while maintaining operational stability.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the second semiconductor device changes clock frequency without entering low power mode, then power consumption is reduced, but synchronization issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic entry into low power mode specifically for frequency changes, rather than maintaining low power mode continuously. This approach minimizes power consumption by keeping the device in normal operation mode most of the time, while only entering low power mode briefly when frequency changes are required, thus maintaining synchronization without excessive power usage.
Data Source
AI summary
A first semiconductor device provides a system clock signal and a command address signal to a second semiconductor device. The first semiconductor device provides a command address signal related to a clock frequency change to the second semiconductor device. The second semiconductor device changes a frequency mode after entering a low power mode.