Dual Supply Memory Voltage Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a tradeoff between reducing power consumption in computing devices and maintaining robust memory operation, as memory devices function better at higher voltages, while lower power consumption often requires lower voltage signals.
Innovation Solution
A system with a first power supply generating a lower voltage signal and a second power supply generating a higher voltage signal, along with a power mode controller and selector, dynamically couples electrical circuits with either signal based on the power state to optimize voltage usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If lower voltage signals are used to reduce power consumption, then power consumption is reduced, but memory operation robustness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device is divided into two separate memory arrays: a first memory array that operates at a first voltage level optimized for low power consumption, and a second memory array that operates at a second voltage level optimized for robust operation. This segmentation allows each memory array to be independently optimized for its specific operational requirements, resolving the contradiction between low power consumption and robust memory operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Different voltage levels are applied to different memory arrays based on their specific operational needs. The first memory array receives a first voltage level that provides robust operation, while the second memory array receives a second voltage level that reduces power consumption. This local quality approach ensures that each memory array operates at the optimal voltage level for its function, rather than using a uniform voltage level across the entire device.
2Reliability
If higher voltage signals are used to maintain robust memory operation, then memory operation robustness is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device is divided into two separate memory arrays: a first memory array that operates at a first voltage level optimized for robust operation, and a second memory array that operates at a second voltage level optimized for low power consumption. This segmentation allows each memory array to be independently optimized for its specific operational requirements, resolving the contradiction between robust memory operation and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
Different voltage levels are applied to different memory arrays based on their specific operational needs. The first memory array receives a first voltage level that provides robust operation, while the second memory array receives a second voltage level that reduces power consumption. This local quality approach ensures that each memory array operates at the optimal voltage level for its function, rather than using a uniform voltage level across the entire device.
3Device complexity
If a single voltage level is used for all memory circuits, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different power states deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device dynamically adapts its operational characteristics by selectively activating different memory arrays based on the power state. When robust operation is required, the first memory array operating at the first voltage level is activated. When power consumption needs to be reduced, the second memory array operating at the second voltage level is activated. This dynamic adaptation allows the device to respond to different power state requirements without requiring complex voltage regulation circuitry for each memory array.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory device achieves multi-functionality by incorporating both a first memory array optimized for robust operation and a second memory array optimized for low power consumption. The controller can selectively activate different memory arrays based on the operational requirements, providing universal adaptability to different power states and application scenarios without requiring separate specialized devices.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one general aspect, an apparatus may include a first power supply configured to generate a first power signal having one of a plurality of voltages, and a second power supply configured to generate a second power signal that includes a voltage equal to or higher than a voltage of the first power signal. The apparatus may include a first electrical circuit configured to be powered by the first power supply. The apparatus may also include a power mode controller configured to: determine the voltage of the first power signal during the next power state, and generate a selector control signal based upon the voltage of the first power signal. The apparatus may also include a power supply selector configured to dynamically electrically couple a second electrical circuit with either the first power signal or the second power signal, based upon the selector control signal.