Memory Power Management via Segmented Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current memory devices face challenges in efficient power management, particularly in managing the power requirements of volatile and non-volatile memory devices within a single memory module, leading to inefficiencies in data transfer and operation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a power management component, which includes a power management integrated circuit (PMIC) and a capacitive voltage divider (CVD), that converts input signals into tailored signal magnitudes compatible with different types of memory devices, such as DRAM and non-volatile memory, to optimize power usage and data transfer between them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single power supply is used for both volatile and non-volatile memory devices, then device complexity is reduced, but power management efficiency deteriorates due to incompatible power requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The power management component is segmented into multiple independent power supply circuits, each dedicated to a specific memory device type (DRAM, DDR3, DDR4, non-volatile memory). Each circuit can independently regulate power according to the specific requirements of its target memory type, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and power management efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply system is made dynamic through voltage switching mechanisms that automatically select and connect the appropriate power supply circuit based on the detected memory device type. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain simple overall structure while achieving optimized power delivery for each memory type.
2Use of energy by moving object
If power management component detects and adapts to different memory device types, then power distribution efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power management component incorporates automatic detection and adaptation capabilities that enable it to self-configure based on the connected memory device type. The system performs self-diagnosis and self-adjustment without external intervention, improving power distribution efficiency while minimizing the need for complex external control circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The power management component is designed as a universal interface that can handle multiple memory device types through integrated detection and switching mechanisms. This multi-functional design consolidates what would otherwise require separate dedicated power supplies for each memory type, improving efficiency without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Power
If voltage switching is implemented to match power requirements, then power delivery accuracy is improved, but switching time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple power supply circuits are pre-configured with different voltage levels before operation begins. When a memory device is connected, the system quickly switches to the pre-prepared appropriate voltage source rather than generating or adjusting voltage in real-time, thereby achieving accurate power delivery with minimal switching delay.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the efficiency of dual in-line memory modules (DIMMs) by optimizing power distribution and data transfer between volatile and non-volatile memory devices, improving overall system performance and reducing power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitive voltage divider (CVD), that converts input signals into tailored signal magnitudes compatible with different types of memory devices
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure includes apparatuses and methods related to power management in memory. Memory devices with multiple input/output ports may have the ports separately managed to transfer data from the various to a host or other components of the module based on certain power management signaling or constraints. For example, a memory device with multiple ports may be managed to transfer data to a host from one set of ports in response to power management (or other) signaling, and the device may be managed to transfer other data to another memory device in response to different power management (or other signaling). Power management may be done onboard a memory module with or without direction from a host. Power management may be performed by a dedicated integrated circuit. Data may be transferred from or between different classes of memory devices, using different ports, based on power management, e.g., criteria.