Data Storage Power Control for DDR Signal Line Energy Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data storage systems, such as those using DDR SDRAM, continue to consume power in terminal circuits even when in a power saving state due to current flow through signal lines, and existing solutions with two interruption units for terminal power supply do not adequately reduce power consumption during ordinary operation.
Innovation Solution
A data storage apparatus with a judgment unit to determine the conditions for transitioning into a power saving state, a reference voltage supply unit to fix signal states, and a power control unit to stop reference voltage supply, thereby reducing power consumption by preventing current flow between signal levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the terminal power supply is interrupted to reduce power consumption in power saving state, then power consumption is reduced, but current flows from HIGH level signal to LOW level signal through the terminal circuit causing power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by fixing the signal level to LOW before interrupting the terminal power supply. The operation control unit changes the signal level to LOW in advance, and only then does the power control unit interrupt the reference voltage supply. This sequence prevents current from flowing through the terminal circuit during power interruption, eliminating the contradiction between reducing power consumption and maintaining signal level stability.
2Loss of energy
If two interruption units are provided for terminal power supply to control HIGH and LOW signals separately, then current flow is restrained in power saving state, but power is still consumed in the interruption units during ordinary operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple interruption units into a single interruption unit. Instead of providing separate interruption units for HIGH and LOW signal lines, the invention uses one interruption unit that controls the reference voltage supply to all signal lines simultaneously. This reduces device complexity while still achieving the goal of preventing unwanted current flow during power saving state, as the signal levels are fixed before interruption occurs.
3Loss of energy
If the signal level is changed to LOW before interrupting power supply, then unnecessary power consumption is prevented, but the system must coordinate multiple control actions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the operation control unit monitors the state of the data storage unit and triggers the signal level change and power interruption sequence accordingly. The power control unit receives feedback about the signal level state and coordinates the interruption timing. This feedback system automates the coordination of multiple control actions, reducing the complexity of manual synchronization while ensuring proper sequence execution.
Data Source
AI summary
In a data storage apparatus having data storage means, if it is judged that a condition of transitioning the data storage apparatus into a power saving state is established, it is controlled so that states of signals to be output by operation control means of controlling an operation of the data storage means to plural signal lines are fixed to a specific signal state, and supply of a reference voltage by reference voltage supply means to the plural signal lines is stopped.