Memory Controller Dynamic Power Savings via Clock Enable
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional memory controllers are limited in power management capabilities, only allowing deep, long-term power reduction modes that are slow and inadequate for dynamic power reduction, especially during active operational states, and do not effectively reduce power consumption during normal operation.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a memory controller and buffers that collaborate with an arbiter and protocol engine to dynamically enter and exit a low power state, using a clock enable signal to initiate power savings mode, allowing for transparent and automatic power reduction without firmware interaction, even during normal operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If firmware controlled deep-sleep power down mode is used, then power consumption is reduced, but the system can only operate in deep-sleep mode for long periods and cannot dynamically reduce power during active operation
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer controller automatically monitors its own activity state and controls the clock enable signal to memory without requiring firmware intervention. When the buffer becomes idle, it autonomously enters power savings mode, and when activity is detected, it automatically exits power savings mode. This self-service mechanism enables dynamic power management during active operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static deep-sleep mode to dynamic power management by continuously monitoring buffer activity state. The buffer controller dynamically adjusts the clock enable signal based on real-time activity detection, allowing the memory to switch between active and power savings modes during normal operation rather than being confined to long-term deep-sleep states.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the buffer controller automatically controls power savings mode, then dynamic power reduction is achieved during active operation, but firmware control capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer controller incorporates an integrated activity state monitor and clock enable control unit that automatically manages power savings mode. This self-service architecture eliminates the need for external firmware control logic, reducing overall system complexity while enabling dynamic power management. The buffer controller handles all power state transitions internally based on its own activity state.
3Use of energy by moving object
If deep-sleep power down mode is implemented, then power consumption is reduced, but memory access latency increases when exiting power down state
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic monitoring of buffer activity state to determine when to enter or exit power savings mode. By continuously tracking activity, the system can exit power savings mode immediately when activity is detected, minimizing latency. This dynamic approach contrasts with static deep-sleep mode where exit timing is predetermined and may incur significant latency.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer controller monitors activity state in advance and can proactively exit power savings mode before actual memory access is required. By detecting activity early and preparing for potential access, the system reduces the effective latency compared to waiting until deep-sleep mode must be exited.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprising a plurality of buffers and a memory controller. The plurality of buffers may each be configured to generate an access request signal in response to a respective one of a plurality of channel requests received from a respective one of a plurality of clients. The memory controller circuit may be configured to generate a clock enable signal in response to the plurality of access request signals. The clock enable signal may be configured to initiate entering and exiting a power savings mode of a memory circuit.