Memory Voltage Generator Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional memory devices waste power by maintaining active voltage generators even when internal voltages are unneeded, leading to inefficiencies in power management.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a power controller that inhibits the generation of specific voltages during standby modes, using bleeder, isolation, and coupling circuits to manage voltage levels and reduce power consumption by allowing voltages to float or change state strategically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If voltage generators are kept active to ensure immediate voltage availability for memory operations, then operational readiness is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage generator transitions from a static always-on state to a dynamic state that adapts based on operational needs. The generator is enabled during active modes and disabled during standby modes, allowing the system to optimize between operational readiness and power consumption by changing the operational state of the voltage generator based on memory device activity
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage generator operates in periodic cycles, being activated before refresh operations and other memory operations that require internal voltages, and deactivated during standby periods. This periodic activation pattern ensures voltages are available when needed while minimizing power consumption during inactive periods
2Use of energy by moving object
If voltage generators are disabled during standby modes to reduce power consumption, then power efficiency is improved, but voltage availability for operations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage generator is enabled in advance before operations that require internal voltages, such as refresh operations. This preliminary activation ensures that voltages are ready and available when needed, avoiding delays while still allowing the generator to be disabled during standby periods for power savings
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses mode signals (such as CKE - Clock Enable) to detect when the memory device is in active or standby mode, and accordingly controls the voltage generator. This feedback mechanism ensures the voltage generator is activated only when operations are anticipated, balancing power efficiency with voltage availability
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments include a voltage generator to generate a voltage to apply to a line used to access a memory cell of a memory device in which the voltage is applied to the line when the memory cell is not being accessed, and a power controller to cause the voltage to change between refresh operations of the memory device. Other embodiments including additional apparatus, systems, and methods are described.