DIMM Reference Voltage Switching Circuit for Power Loss Adaptability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional high-speed memory circuits rely on a single reference voltage source, which is inflexible and unable to adapt to changing system operating conditions, such as power loss, leading to instability and potential system failures.
Innovation Solution
A memory module with an internal reference voltage generator and a control circuit that switches from an external to an internal power source, ensuring continuous stable reference voltage through an isolation circuit, allowing the module to maintain operation even when external power is unavailable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single external reference voltage source is used throughout system operation, then consistency and simplicity are maintained, but the system becomes inflexible and unable to adapt to changing operating conditions such as power loss
Solution Approach 1:
The reference voltage source is segmented into two independent sources: an external reference voltage source and an internal reference voltage generator. Each source can operate independently, allowing the system to switch between them based on operating conditions. The external source is used during normal operation, while the internal generator takes over during power loss events, providing adaptability without requiring a completely complex reconfiguration of the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference voltage system is made dynamic through the switching circuit that can transition between external and internal sources based on real-time detection of power loss conditions. The control circuit dynamically monitors the external power source status and activates the appropriate reference voltage source, enabling the system to adapt to changing operating conditions rather than being fixed to a single external source.
2Reliability
If the memory module switches to an internal power source during external power loss, then continuous operation is maintained, but additional circuits and control mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The internal reference voltage generator is pre-configured and ready to operate before power loss occurs. The switching circuit and control logic are designed in advance to detect power loss conditions and automatically transition to the internal source. This preliminary preparation ensures that when external power is lost, the system can immediately switch to the internal generator without delay or instability, maintaining continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A switching circuit acts as an intermediary between the external reference voltage source and the internal reference voltage generator. This intermediary component manages the transition between sources, isolating the memory circuit from the external source during power loss while connecting it to the internal generator. The control circuit serves as another intermediary that monitors power conditions and directs the switching action, enabling reliable source transitions without requiring complex reconfiguration of the core memory circuitry.
Data Source
AI summary
A non-volatile memory module includes a volatile memory circuit; an interface to a reference voltage source external to the module providing an external reference voltage to the volatile memory circuit by which the volatile memory circuit and external devices may communicate reliably at high speeds; an internal reference voltage generator; and a control circuit adapted to cause the volatile memory circuit to be decoupled from using the external reference voltage and coupled to using a reference voltage from the internal reference voltage generator upon the non-volatile memory module ceasing to draw power from an external power source.