Programmable Logic Voltage Guardband Control Using Critical Path Monitors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Programmable logic devices face challenges in determining the critical path due to their customizable nature, leading to the use of large voltage guardbands that consume unnecessary power, as the worst-case voltage drop events are difficult to predict.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating circuit monitors that mimic critical paths within the programmable logic device to monitor and adjust voltage guardbands dynamically, allowing sectors to operate with reduced voltage margins based on actual performance needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If large voltage guardbands are used to ensure reliability in programmable logic devices, then reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage guardband adjustment by monitoring actual voltage drops in real-time and adapting the guardband level accordingly. Instead of using a fixed large guardband, the system dynamically scales the guardband based on observed conditions, reducing power consumption when full protection is not needed while maintaining reliability when voltage drops occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage guardband parameter from a static fixed value to a dynamic variable that adjusts based on monitored voltage drop conditions. The system modifies the guardband parameter in response to actual operating conditions, optimizing the balance between reliability and power consumption by only applying full guardband protection when necessary.
2Reliability
If fixed large voltage guardbands are used to account for unpredictable worst-case voltage drops, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a feedback mechanism where voltage drop monitoring provides real-time information about actual operating conditions. This feedback loop allows the system to adjust the voltage guardband based on observed voltage drops, replacing the need for overly conservative fixed guardbands with an adaptive system that responds to actual conditions, thereby reducing unnecessary complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-monitoring and self-adjustment of voltage guardbands through integrated monitoring circuitry that automatically detects voltage drops and triggers appropriate guardband adjustments without external intervention. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex external control mechanisms while maintaining reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems or methods of the present disclosure may provide efficient power consumption for programmable logic devices based on reducing guardband voltages. A programmable logic device may include circuit monitors to mimic critical paths of an implemented circuit design and generate timing information based on the critical paths. A controller on the programmable logic device may adjust the voltage guardband based on the timing information.