In-Memory Power Manager for DDR Memory Direct State Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current DDR4 memory systems have limitations, including only three primary power states and a requirement for transitions through the normal power state when moving from low to deep low power states, with power management solely controlled by the host computer.
Innovation Solution
A memory module with an in-memory power manager that allows direct transitions between power states, including from a low power down state to a maximum power down state, enabling fine-grained power control and self-optimized power management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the memory system uses traditional host-controlled power management with three primary power states, then the system maintains compatibility with DDR4 standards and simple control logic, but the power management efficiency is limited and cannot achieve fine-grained power optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the traditional three primary power states into multiple fine-grained power states (e.g., dividing the low power state into light sleep and deep sleep states). This segmentation allows the memory system to achieve more precise power control and optimization while maintaining a structured approach to managing different power levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the memory subsystem to autonomously manage its own power states through an in-memory power manager. The memory can automatically transition between fine-grained power states based on its own activity patterns and power requirements, reducing reliance on host computer control and improving overall power management efficiency.
2Loss of time
If the memory system requires transitions through the normal power state when moving from low to deep low power states, then the control logic remains simple and follows DDR4 specifications, but the transition time increases and power optimization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing direct transition paths between fine-grained power states. The memory system prepares and configures the necessary control logic and power management infrastructure in advance, enabling immediate transitions between power states without requiring intermediate steps through the normal power state, thus reducing transition time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamics by making the power state transition paths flexible and adaptive. The system can dynamically select between different transition paths (direct or indirect) based on current operational conditions, allowing optimized transitions that adapt to real-time power and performance requirements rather than following fixed transition sequences.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the host computer solely controls power state transitions, then the control architecture remains simple and centralized, but the memory system cannot achieve self-optimized power management and fine-grained power control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the memory subsystem to autonomously manage its own power states through an in-memory power manager. The memory can automatically transition between fine-grained power states based on its own activity patterns and power requirements, reducing reliance on host computer control and improving overall power management efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies feedback mechanisms where the memory system continuously monitors its own operational state, power consumption, and activity patterns, and uses this information to make intelligent decisions about power state transitions. The feedback loop enables the memory to adapt its power management strategy in real-time, achieving self-optimized power management.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory module includes a plurality of memory components, an in-memory power manager, and an interface to a host computer over a memory bus. The in-memory power manager is configured to control a transition of a power state of the memory module. The transition of the power state of the memory module includes a direct transition from a low power down state to a maximum power down state.