Nonvolatile Memory Power Switching for SSD Energy Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Storage devices, particularly solid-state drives (SSDs), face challenges in reducing power consumption to be compatible with high-performance, compact portable equipment while maintaining capacity and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a data storage device with a controller and nonvolatile memory that utilizes a switch element to toggle between a low power consumption mode and a normal operation mode by applying and removing power supply voltages, allowing for reduced power usage when no data transfer is occurring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the nonvolatile memory is continuously powered to maintain normal operation mode, then data access speed and operational readiness are improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power management by switching the nonvolatile memory between normal operation mode and low power consumption mode based on activity state. A switch element controlled by the controller dynamically connects or disconnects the power supply voltage to the nonvolatile memory, enabling the system to adapt power consumption to actual operational needs rather than maintaining constant power supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the power supply parameter of the nonvolatile memory between two distinct states: normal operation mode with full power supply voltage for fast data access, and low power consumption mode with power supply voltage disconnected or reduced. This parameter switching allows the system to optimize between speed and energy consumption based on workload conditions.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the switch element is added to enable power mode switching, then power consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a switch element as an intermediary component between the power supply and the nonvolatile memory. This switch element acts as a mediator that the controller can use to control power delivery to the memory, enabling mode switching without requiring complex power management circuitry within the memory itself or the controller.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the power supply control function by separating the power management logic in the controller from the nonvolatile memory operation. The switch element creates a distinct control path that allows independent management of power supply to the memory, simplifying the overall power management architecture while enabling effective power reduction.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a data storage device includes a controller driven by a first power supply voltage, a nonvolatile memory controlled by the controller and driven by a second power supply voltage, and a switch element determining whether the second power supply voltage is applied to the nonvolatile memory. The controller is configured to turn off the switch element in a first mode and turn on the switch element in a second mode.