Dual Mode Voltage Regulators for Data Storage Power Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data storage devices face challenges in efficiently managing varying power requirements across different lines of products, as existing solutions often necessitate custom voltage regulators for each configuration, leading to increased manufacturing costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A power circuit configuration that allows voltage regulators to operate in either independent or parallel modes, using programmable or manual switches to adjust current supply based on load requirements, enabling the same power circuit to be used across different lines of data storage devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If custom voltage regulators are designed for each product line configuration, then the power supply can be optimized for specific load requirements, but manufacturing complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal voltage regulator design that can operate in multiple configurations (single regulator mode and dual regulator parallel mode) to serve different product line requirements. The regulator includes configuration switches that enable it to function as either a standalone unit or work in parallel with another regulator, eliminating the need for custom-designed regulators for each application scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage regulator incorporates dynamic configuration capabilities through programmable or manual switches that allow the regulator's operational mode to be changed based on load requirements. The system can dynamically adjust between independent operation and parallel operation modes, providing adaptability without requiring physical redesign for different configurations.
2Power
If multiple voltage regulators are used in parallel to increase current supply, then the power capacity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple voltage regulators in a parallel configuration where both regulators work together to supply increased current capacity. The output terminals of both regulators are connected in parallel, and the system includes circuitry to ensure proper current sharing and coordinated operation, effectively merging the capabilities of individual regulators into a unified high-capacity power supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual regulator design is implemented as a universal solution that can operate flexibly in different modes: both regulators can work in parallel for high current applications, or one regulator can be disabled and the other used independently for lower power applications, providing versatility across different power requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different numbers of power islands are used in core logic ICs, then the power level requirements vary, but custom regulators are needed for each configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage regulator is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different power level requirements through configuration switches. The same regulator hardware can be programmed or configured to serve different core logic IC configurations (whether they have one, two, or three power islands), eliminating the need to manufacture different regulator designs for each IC variant.
Solution Approach 2:
The regulator system allows parameter changes in its operational characteristics through configuration switches that adjust the regulator's behavior to match different load requirements. By changing the configuration parameters (enabled/disabled states of regulators and switches), the system adapts to different power level requirements without physical modification.
Data Source
AI summary
A data storage device (DSD) is disclosed comprising a non-volatile memory (NVM), and control circuitry comprising a first voltage regulator having a first output operable to generate a first current, and a second voltage regulator having a second output operable to generate a second current. When in an independent mode, the first current is operable to supply a first load independent of the second current, and the second current is operable to supply a second load independent of the first current. When in a parallel mode, the second output is coupled to the first output in order to increase the first current supplied to the first load and decrease the second current supplied to the second load.