DIMM Switched-Capacitor Power Conversion for Lower Connector Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing power converter designs for memory modules like DIMM cards are inefficient due to the need for external power handling and conditioning, leading to power losses and increased costs, as they cannot integrate power conversion resources within the module due to physical and power constraints.
Innovation Solution
A power converter with a switched-capacitor power train is integrated onto the DIMM card, providing a regulated second voltage as a multiple of the input voltage, reducing the need for external power handling and minimizing power losses by locating power conversion resources on the module itself.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If power handling and conditioning is performed externally on the motherboard, then the memory module can maintain its standardized physical dimensions, but power losses occur due to high currents conducted through connectors and power conversion resources are inefficiently deployed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power handling and conditioning functions directly into the memory module by integrating a power converter on the module's circuit board. This combines previously separate functions (memory storage and power conversion) into a single integrated unit, eliminating the need for external power handling on the motherboard and reducing power losses through connector currents
2Power
If a power converter with sufficient power rating is pre-populated on the motherboard, then the maximum memory power requirement can be met, but power conversion resources are inefficiently deployed and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power conversion capability and distributes it across individual memory modules rather than concentrating it on the motherboard. Each module contains its own power converter with appropriate power rating, allowing incremental scaling where power handling capability is added only when and where needed, eliminating the waste of pre-populating excessive power capacity on the motherboard
3Ease of operation
If the memory module is placed on a motherboard with a connector, then the module can be easily installed and removed, but power losses occur due to high currents conducted through the connector
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power conversion function from the external motherboard system and places it directly on the memory module. This removes the need for high current conduction through the connector, as power conversion occurs locally on the module before power is distributed to the memory chips, thereby eliminating connector-related power losses while preserving ease of installation and removal
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
This solution enhances power conversion efficiency, reduces power losses, and lowers costs by allowing incremental scaling of power handling capabilities with each added module, while maintaining high efficiency even at light loads.
Implementation Method 1
a power converter employing a switched-capacitor power train, located on the circuit board, configured to provide the second voltage for the memory module from the first voltage
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including a memory module and power converter and method of operating the same. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a memory module, located on a circuit board, configured to operate from a first voltage and a second voltage being a multiple of the first voltage. The apparatus also includes a power converter employing a switched-capacitor power train, located on the circuit board, configured to provide the second voltage for the memory module from the first voltage.