Memory Controller Dynamic Power Mode Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory controllers face challenges in optimizing power consumption based on user patterns, leading to increased processing time due to fixed power limits, which do not adapt to varying power usage patterns.
Innovation Solution
A memory controller system that includes a request counter, power mode setting circuit, and command controller to dynamically adjust power modes based on arrival periods and power consumption patterns, allowing for delayed command execution to maintain power limits, thereby optimizing processing time and power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by stationary object
If fixed power limits are applied to memory controllers, then power consumption is controlled, but processing time increases due to inability to adapt to varying power usage patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power mode adjustment by introducing a request counter that monitors command arrival patterns and a power mode setting circuit that switches between different power modes based on detected usage patterns. This transforms the fixed power limit system into a dynamic one that adapts to varying workloads, resolving the contradiction between power control and processing speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes power consumption parameters dynamically by switching between multiple power modes (e.g., first power mode with lower consumption and second power mode with higher consumption). This parameter change approach allows the system to optimize the balance between power usage and processing time based on real-time command arrival patterns.
2Productivity
If power modes are dynamically adjusted based on command arrival patterns, then processing time is optimized, but device complexity increases due to additional control circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power control function into distinct modular components: a request counter for monitoring commands, a power mode setting circuit for mode switching, and a command controller for execution. This segmentation makes the complex system more manageable and implementable while achieving optimized processing speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically detecting command arrival patterns through the request counter and autonomously switching power modes without external intervention. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex external control mechanisms, balancing functionality with simplicity.
3Use of energy by stationary object
If commands are delayed to maintain power limits, then power consumption is controlled, but processing throughput decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic power mode adjustments based on monitored command arrival patterns. Instead of continuous delay, the system periodically switches between power modes according to detected usage patterns, maintaining power limits while minimizing throughput impact through rhythmic, pattern-based control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts power modes in response to real-time command arrival patterns rather than applying static delays. This dynamic approach allows the system to maintain power limits while optimizing throughput by switching to higher performance modes when workload patterns indicate capacity availability.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein may be a memory controller and a method of operating the same. The memory controller may be configured to control a memory device and include: a request counter configured to generate a count value by counting the number of requests received from a host, and calculate, when the count value matches a preset reference value, an arrival period that is a period between a point in time at which the count value is generated and a point in time at which the count value matches the reference value; a power mode setting component configured to determine an optimal power mode corresponding to the memory device and the memory controller based on the arrival period; and a command controller configured to determine, based on the optimal power mode, points in time at which commands for performing operations corresponding to the respective requests are output.