Semiconductor Memory Auto Power-Down for Command-Based Energy Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor memory devices face inefficiencies in power conservation during power-down states due to the continued consumption by signal input buffers even when inactive, necessitating separate explicit power-down entry commands for each mode transition.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an auto power-down mode that automatically enters power-down states for specific commands or sequences of commands without requiring explicit entry commands, using a mode register to configure which commands trigger power-down, thereby reducing power consumption by deactivating signal input buffers and voltage generators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If signal input buffers remain active during power-down state, then the memory device can quickly respond to commands, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power management by automatically adjusting the power state of signal input buffers based on command sequences. The buffers transition between active and powered-down states dynamically, allowing the system to optimize between speed and power consumption depending on the operational context without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory device autonomously manages its own power state by monitoring incoming command sequences and automatically entering power-down mode when appropriate. The system self-determines when to deactivate signal input buffers based on detected command patterns, eliminating the need for external power management control.
2Ease of operation
If explicit power-down entry commands are required for each mode transition, then power state control is precise, but device complexity and operation overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device autonomously manages its own power state by monitoring incoming command sequences and automatically entering power-down mode when appropriate. The system self-determines when to deactivate signal input buffers based on detected command patterns, eliminating the need for external power management control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system proactively enters power-down state by detecting specific command sequences before additional operations are required. By anticipating the need for power savings based on command patterns, the system transitions to low-power mode in advance, reducing overall power consumption without impacting performance.
3Use of energy by moving object
If signal input buffers are deactivated during power-down, then power consumption decreases, but the device cannot receive new commands until activated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power management by automatically adjusting the power state of signal input buffers based on command sequences. The buffers transition between active and powered-down states dynamically, allowing the system to optimize between speed and power consumption depending on the operational context without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors incoming command sequences and uses this feedback to determine when to enter or exit power-down mode. By detecting specific command patterns, the system intelligently adjusts its power state, ensuring that it remains responsive when commands are needed while maximizing power savings during idle periods.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods for auto power-down in semiconductor memory devices are described. An example method for entering power-down for a memory device includes receiving at the memory device a command to perform a memory operation. When auto power-down for the command is not enabled by a mode register setting, performing the memory operation in response to the command. When auto power-down for the command is enabled by the mode register setting, performing the memory operation in response to the command, and entering power-down in response to the command.