Memory Block Voltage Switching for Lower Standby Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microcontroller systems waste power by applying a single voltage to all memory cells, even when only a few cells require higher voltages due to worst-case conditions, leading to inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system with a memory module, voltage generation module, and multiplexors that dynamically switch between multiple voltage rails based on operational parameters of individual memory blocks, such as process corners, temperature, and operating modes, to provide customized voltages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single voltage level is applied to all memory cells, then all bitcells can operate reliably under worst-case conditions, but power consumption increases due to wasted voltage on good bitcells
Solution Approach 1:
The memory module is divided into multiple memory blocks, each with its own multiplexor that can independently select voltage rails. This segmentation allows different voltage levels to be applied to different memory blocks based on their individual operational parameters, rather than forcing a single voltage level across the entire memory module.
Solution Approach 2:
Each memory block is assigned a customized voltage level based on its specific operational parameters (process corner, temperature, operating mode). This local quality approach ensures that each block receives the precise voltage it needs for reliable operation, avoiding the waste of applying higher voltages to blocks that don't require them.
2Device complexity
If a single voltage rail is used for all memory blocks, then the voltage generation module is simple, but power management is coarse-grained and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between multiple voltage rails based on real-time operational parameters of each memory block. The multiplexors can change voltage assignments on-the-fly in response to changing conditions such as temperature variations, process corners, and operating modes, providing adaptive power management.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiplexors are introduced as intermediary components between the voltage generation module and memory blocks. These multiplexors act as smart switches that can dynamically connect each memory block to the appropriate voltage rail, enabling fine-grained power management without requiring complex modifications to the voltage generation module itself.
3Reliability
If voltage is increased to accommodate worst-case bitcells, then data retention is ensured for all cells, but good bitcells consume unnecessary power
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the voltage parameter for each memory block based on its specific operational characteristics. By monitoring parameters such as process corner, temperature, and operating mode, the system adjusts the voltage assignment for each block to match its actual requirements, ensuring data retention while minimizing energy waste.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to a system having a memory module, a voltage generation module, and a plurality of multiplexors. The memory module has a plurality of memory blocks. The voltage generation module supplies two or more voltage rails. The multiplexors are electrically connected to the voltage generation module. Each memory block is electrically connected to one of the multiplexors. Each multiplexor is configured to switch between the two or more voltage rails based on an operational parameter of each memory block. The operational parameter of each memory block may be process control speed, storage status, an operating mode, temperature, or any combination thereof. The operating mode may further be an active mode, a standby mode, and a deep sleep mode.