PLD Programming with Segmented Power Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for programming programmable logic devices (PLDs) require powering the entire printed circuit board, which is costly and inefficient, especially when only one integrated circuit needs to be programmed, and do not allow for offline in-system programming (OL-ISP).
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a separate program power supply that independently powers the programmable memory of an integrated circuit, allowing it to be programmed without powering other circuits on the board, using a lower-power source and eliminating the need for on-chip charge pumps, with features like diodes and multiplexers for electrical isolation and voltage control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the entire printed circuit board is powered up to program memory, then the integrated circuit can be programmed, but power consumption increases and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into board power and separate program power supplies. The patent introduces independent program power pins (VCCP0-VCCP7) that allow individual integrated circuits to be powered for programming without activating the entire board's power supply, thus reducing overall power consumption while maintaining programming capability
Solution Approach 2:
The programming power supply is extracted from the board's main power supply system. By providing separate program power pins that connect to individual integrated circuits, the patent eliminates the need to power the entire board for programming operations, separating the programming power function from the board's general power distribution
2Ease of manufacture
If the entire printed circuit board is powered up to program memory, then the integrated circuit can be programmed, but equipment costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply architecture is segmented to allow independent programming power delivery to individual integrated circuits. The patent implements separate program power pins for each integrated circuit, enabling programming operations without requiring the entire board's power supply system to be active, thereby simplifying the overall power management complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Each integrated circuit is equipped with its own program power pins that can be independently activated. This self-service approach allows individual circuits to be programmed without requiring board-level power management, reducing the complexity of the power supply system and eliminating the need for expensive board-wide power distribution infrastructure
3Ease of operation
If power is provided to the entire printed circuit board, then all circuits can operate, but voltage and current spikes affect other circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is segmented into isolated program power domains. The patent introduces separate program power pins with individual power management, allowing programming operations to be performed on one integrated circuit without affecting the power state of other circuits on the board, thereby eliminating voltage and current spikes from propagating across the entire board
Solution Approach 2:
The programming power function is extracted from the board's main power distribution network. By providing dedicated program power pins that bypass the board's main power supply, the patent isolates programming-related voltage and current transients to individual integrated circuits, preventing harmful spikes from affecting other board components
Data Source
AI summary
A separate program power input is provided to a programmable logic array's memory to permit it to be programmed independently of printed circuit board power. Means are provided to isolate the program power input from the array's programmable logic circuit. Means are further provided to isolate the memory from the programmable logic circuit. The program power is not connected directly or indirectly to the programmable logic circuit thereby permitting the use of low-power devices to program the memory without connecting the printed circuit board to a power supply.