Dual-Power-Feed PMIC for Glitch-Free Memory Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory systems face challenges in managing power requirements during power failures, leading to potential data loss and increased complexity and cost due to the need for additional circuitry to support backup power supplies.
Innovation Solution
A power management integrated circuit (PMIC) with dual power input capability, combining power from a host and a backup supply using diodes to ensure continuous operation and reduce the need for additional board-level components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional circuitry is added to support backup power supplies, then power management capability during power failures is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the backup power supply control functionality directly into the PMIC, merging previously separate circuit functions into a single integrated device. This integration eliminates the need for additional board-level components while maintaining full power management capability during power failures.
Solution Approach 2:
The PMIC is designed to perform multiple functions: it manages both host power and backup power supply, provides glitch-free power transition, and controls various power rails. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated circuits for each power management task.
2Reliability
If additional circuitry is added to support backup power supplies, then power management capability during power failures is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the backup power supply control functionality directly into the PMIC, merging previously separate circuit functions into a single integrated device. This integration eliminates the need for additional board-level components while maintaining full power management capability during power failures.
3Reliability
If dual power feed is implemented, then continuous operation during power failures is ensured, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses diodes as intermediary components to combine power from host and backup power supplies. The diodes provide automatic power source selection and isolation, enabling glitch-free transition between power sources without requiring complex control circuitry.
4Device complexity
If backup power supply control functionality is integrated into PMIC, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the backup power supply control functionality directly into the PMIC, merging previously separate circuit functions into a single integrated device. This integration eliminates the need for additional board-level components while maintaining full power management capability during power failures.
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
The PMIC ensures glitch-free operation during power failures, reduces costs, and simplifies the construction of storage devices by integrating backup power supply control functionality, thereby minimizing data loss and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
combining power from a host and a backup supply using diodes
Data Source
AI summary
A power management circuit receives power from a host and a backup power supply in parallel and uses power from at least one of the host and the backup power supply to operate voltage regulators for a memory system. An enable signal is generated based on whether or not the voltage regulators are powered. The enable signal can be used to keep the backup power supply on while the memory system is in operation. In response to absence of power from the host, the circuit generates an interrupt signal causing the memory system to shut down safely without data loss.