Mixed Memory Types Using Segmented Power Domains
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computing systems are limited in their ability to incorporate a variety of memory modules due to design constraints related to power supply and clock frequency, making it difficult to find suitable memory modules for specific needs.
Innovation Solution
A memory unit with a system memory controller coupled to multiple memory clock oscillators and voltage controllers, allowing each memory receptacle to have a separate power boundary and selectable clock frequency, enabling the use of diverse memory types within a single system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single power supply and clock frequency are used for all memory modules, then the system design is simple, but the ability to incorporate various memory module types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the memory system into separate power domains, with each domain dedicated to specific memory module types (e.g., DDR3, DDR4). Each power domain has its own voltage regulator and clock oscillator, allowing independent control of power and timing parameters for different memory types without interference from other domains.
Solution Approach 2:
Each memory receptacle or group of receptacles is assigned specific local characteristics including dedicated voltage levels, clock frequencies, and power delivery parameters optimized for particular memory module types. This local customization enables the system to support multiple memory technologies simultaneously while maintaining optimal performance for each type.
2Productivity
If memory modules are selected based on performance requirements, then system performance is optimized, but the cost of memory modules increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different memory module types are allocated to different power domains based on their performance requirements and cost characteristics. High-performance, high-cost memory modules can be deployed in domains requiring higher clock frequencies or voltage, while cost-effective memory modules are used in domains with less demanding performance requirements, optimizing the overall cost-performance ratio.
Solution Approach 2:
The system can dynamically adjust power supply parameters such as voltage levels and clock frequencies for different memory domains based on actual performance needs. This allows the system to optimize performance for critical applications while maintaining cost-effectiveness by not over-provisioning power and timing resources for all memory modules uniformly.
Data Source
AI summary
A memory unit includes a system memory controller coupled to a plurality of memory clock oscillators and a plurality of respective voltage controllers, wherein each memory clock oscillator and respective voltage controller are coupled to a memory receptacle and thus provide a plurality of memory receptacles, each receptacle in the plurality of receptacles having a separate power boundary for operation of a memory type. The memory unit provides a computing system with capabilities to operate a variety of memory types. Methods and computer program products of operation of the memory unit are provided.