PMIC Multi-Rail Voltage Adaptation for Micro Server SoCs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional server power management systems face challenges in efficiently supplying power to multiple CPU types due to the need for custom PMIC designs and limited adaptability in voltage output, leading to increased resource usage and complexity in power management.
Innovation Solution
A power supply device with a PMIC that includes multiple rails for outputting different voltages and a voltage regulator module to adjust voltage based on core frequency and load size, along with PWM generators for efficient switching operations, allowing it to supply power to various CPUs without requiring PMIC redesigns or changes in rails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If custom PMIC designs are created for each CPU type, then appropriate voltage supply is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The PMIC is designed with multiple selectable voltage rails (1.8V, 1.35V, 1.05V, 0.675V) that can be configured through control signals to match different CPU power requirements. This universal design allows a single PMIC to support multiple CPU types without requiring custom designs for each processor, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable voltage supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The PMIC incorporates dynamic voltage selection capability where the output voltage can be changed in real-time based on the connected CPU type. Control signals from the processor module enable the PMIC to switch between different voltage rails dynamically, adapting to various CPU power requirements without physical hardware changes.
2Device complexity
If a single fixed voltage output is used in PMIC, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different CPU types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The PMIC integrates multiple voltage rails (1.8V, 1.35V, 1.05V, 0.675V) within a single device, enabling it to adapt to different CPU power requirements. The control unit selects the appropriate voltage rail based on the connected processor type, providing versatile CPU compatibility without significantly increasing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The PMIC changes its output voltage parameter dynamically based on the connected CPU type. Through control signals, the PMIC can switch between different voltage levels (1.8V, 1.35V, 1.05V, 0.675V) to match the power requirements of various processors, achieving parameter adaptability while maintaining a unified device structure.
3Ease of operation
If multiple interfaces are connected for PMIC control, then control functionality is improved, but IO interface complexity and resource usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The PMIC control functionality is merged with the existing processor module interface. The same interface used for processor communication is also used for PMIC control, eliminating the need for separate dedicated control interfaces. This reduces IO interface complexity and resource usage while maintaining full control capability over the PMIC.
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
Enables stable and efficient power supply to multiple SoCs, reducing resource usage and simplifying power management by providing adaptive voltage and current outputs, supporting various CPU types with a single PMIC, and allowing seamless integration of new CPUs without hardware changes.
Implementation Method 1
the rail may be an output of a synchronous buck
Implementation Method 2
the PMIC may include a PWM generator configured to output a PWM signal for a switching operation of a switching device outside the PMIC
Data Source
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AI summary
A power supply device includes a power supply configured to supply DC power, and a PMIC configured to convert DC power provided from the power supply and to provide the converted DC power to an SoC, wherein the PMIC is provided with a plurality of rails configured to output different voltages.