Multi-Channel Interface Power State Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The USB 3.2 protocol's dual-channel architecture faces challenges in reducing power consumption while maintaining signal integrity for high-speed data transmission, as conventional methods are not effective in dual-channel architectures due to their complexity and incompatibility with earlier USB protocols.
Innovation Solution
The interface operates in multiple power states, including a low current mode, high current mode, and mid-current mode, using control circuitry to detect power states and initiate a power-saving scheme by enabling or disabling portions of the bi-directional channels, thereby reducing power consumption without compromising signal integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the separate channel is kept in a high power consuming active state to achieve high-speed data transmission rates, then data transmission speed is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power state management for the dual-channel interface, allowing channels to transition between active and low-power states based on data transmission requirements. The interface controller monitors channel activity and dynamically adjusts power states, enabling the system to achieve high-speed transmission when needed while reducing power consumption during idle or low-activity periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the interface channels by defining multiple power states with different current consumption levels. The system selectively activates channels based on data rate requirements, using full power states for high-speed transmission and reduced power states for lower bandwidth requirements, thereby optimizing the balance between speed and power consumption.
2Use of energy by moving object
If conventional power reduction methods are applied to single-channel architecture, then power consumption is reduced, but they are incompatible with dual-channel architecture complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal power management mechanism that functions across both single-channel and dual-channel USB architectures. The interface controller implements a standardized power state detection and transition system that adapts to the specific channel configuration, making the power reduction methodology applicable to various USB protocol versions and channel arrangements without requiring architecture-specific modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the dual-channel interface into independently controllable power domains, allowing each channel to be managed separately based on its activity state. This segmentation enables granular power control where individual channels can be placed in low-power states while others remain active, simplifying the management of dual-channel complexity through modular power state control.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the present technology may provide methods and apparatus for an interface having a first bi-directional channel and a second bi-directional channel. The interface operates in one of a first operational state and a second operational state, and performs an exemplary power-saving scheme if it is operating in the second operational state. The interface may detect a plurality of power states and initiate the power-saving scheme based on the detected power state. The plurality of power states may comprise a first power state (low current mode), a second power state (high current mode), and a third power state (mid-current mode).