Memory Controller Buffer Power Throttling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computer memory systems face increased power consumption due to the addition of memory modules, particularly in Fully Buffered Dual Inline Memory Modules (FBDIMMs), where there is no standardized method to place Advanced Memory Buffer (AMB) circuitry in a low-latency standby state to conserve power without affecting access speed or latency.
Innovation Solution
A memory controller is configured to detect periods of inactivity and initiate a buffer to enter a reduced power state by maintaining counts of memory refresh or sync intervals, sending commands to enter the L0s state when specified intervals pass without requests, thereby reducing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If memory modules are connected in series using FB-DIMM architecture, then electrical loading on buses is reduced and memory density is increased, but power consumption increases due to the greater number of modules
Solution Approach 1:
The memory controller proactively places AMBs into L0s state before actual idle periods occur by monitoring memory access patterns and predicting idle intervals, allowing the system to prepare low-power states in advance while maintaining quick recovery capability when memory requests arrive
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic monitoring of memory access patterns and uses threshold-based timing mechanisms to determine when to transition AMBs between active and L0s states, creating a rhythmic pattern of power state changes that optimizes energy consumption while maintaining performance
2Use of energy by moving object
If AMB transmitter and receiver circuitry is placed in L0s state to save power, then power dissipation is reduced, but access speed may be reduced and latency increased
Solution Approach 1:
The memory controller proactively places AMBs into L0s state before actual idle periods occur by monitoring memory access patterns and predicting idle intervals, allowing the system to prepare low-power states in advance while maintaining quick recovery capability when memory requests arrive
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically transitions AMBs between active and L0s states based on real-time memory access patterns and predicted idle periods, creating an adaptive power management mechanism that adjusts operational state according to actual system needs rather than using static power states
3Use of energy by moving object
If AMB is placed in L0s state during idle periods, then power consumption is reduced, but system complexity increases due to need for state management algorithms
Solution Approach 1:
The memory controller continuously monitors memory access patterns and uses this feedback information to dynamically adjust AMB power states, creating a closed-loop control system that automatically optimizes power consumption based on actual system behavior without requiring complex manual configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own memory access pattern data to automatically determine when to transition AMBs to low-power states, eliminating the need for external power management hardware or complex controller logic by leveraging existing operational information
Data Source
AI summary
A memory system is disclosed. The memory system includes a memory controller coupled to one or more memory modules, at least one of the memory modules including a buffer. The memory controller is configured to convey a command to at least one of the memory modules in response to detecting that no memory requests addressed to the at least one of the memory modules have been received during a specified window of time. In response to the command, the buffer of the at least one of the memory modules is configured to enter a reduced power state. The specified window of time may be either a specified number of memory refresh intervals or buffer sync intervals. The memory controller maintains a count of memory refresh or buffer sync intervals.