Memory Operating Mode Register for AI Power Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing memory devices experience high power consumption when accessed by artificial intelligence systems due to simultaneous access of multiple components, leading to increased energy usage.
Innovation Solution
Modifying the operating mode of memory devices to a reduced power consumption mode by writing a value indicative of the mode to a register, which reduces power consumption and allows only commands to switch to a normal operating mode, thereby conserving energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If memory devices operate in normal operating mode to support AI system access, then data access speed and system functionality are improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device dynamically switches between normal operating mode and reduced power consumption mode based on operational requirements. The controller monitors access patterns and transitions the memory device to appropriate modes, making the power consumption adaptive rather than static. This resolves the contradiction by allowing high speed when needed while conserving power during idle or low-demand periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters of the memory device by writing specific values to mode registers. When transitioning to reduced power mode, parameters such as refresh rates, voltage levels, and operational frequency are adjusted to lower consumption states. This parameter modification enables the memory device to operate efficiently at different power levels depending on system needs.
2Reliability
If memory devices perform refresh operations continuously, then data integrity is maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous refresh operations, the patent implements periodic refresh cycles when the memory device is in reduced power mode. Refresh operations are performed at extended intervals rather than continuously, reducing power consumption while still maintaining data integrity over acceptable timeframes. This periodic approach resolves the contradiction between reliability and power usage.
Solution Approach 2:
In reduced power mode, the patent performs partial refresh operations on only certain memory portions that are actively used or recently accessed, rather than refreshing the entire memory array. This partial action maintains data integrity for critical data while significantly reducing the power consumption associated with full-refresh operations.
3Productivity
If multiple memory components are accessed simultaneously by AI systems, then processing throughput is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the memory device into multiple banks or regions that can be independently controlled. When AI systems need simultaneous access, only the necessary segments are activated in normal mode while other segments remain in reduced power mode. This segmentation allows selective activation, maintaining processing throughput for active segments while conserving power across the entire memory device.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller implements multi-functionality by managing both high-performance access and power conservation within the same memory system. It can dynamically allocate memory regions between normal and reduced power modes based on AI workload requirements, making the system adaptable to varying throughput needs while optimizing power consumption across different operational scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure includes apparatuses and methods related to modifying an operating mode in memory. An example apparatus can include a memory array and a controller coupled to the memory array, wherein the controller includes a register configured to receive a mode register write command and write a value indicative of an operating mode in which the apparatus has reduced power consumption relative to a normal operating mode.