Processor Low-Power Mode Selection Using Runtime Leakage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing processor power mode management systems inaccurately determine when to transition to low-power modes due to variability in current leakage affected by operating speed and temperature, leading to incorrect energy usage and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
Implement a framework module to dynamically adjust minimum residency time criteria for low-power mode selection based on actual current leakage and operating conditions at runtime, using a framework module and idle governor module to make informed decisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the processor transitions to a low-power mode based on fixed minimum residency time criteria, then power consumption is reduced, but the transition costs may nullify the benefits due to inaccurate timing decisions caused by current leakage variability
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the minimum residency time criteria for low-power mode transitions based on real-time monitoring of actual current leakage and operating conditions. Instead of using fixed thresholds, the framework module continuously adapts the residency time requirements to match the actual power state of the processor, ensuring that transitions are made only when truly beneficial.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the actual current leakage is monitored at runtime and used to update the minimum residency time criteria. The framework module compares expected current leakage with actual measurements and adjusts the low-power mode transition thresholds accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that improves energy management accuracy over time.
2Loss of time
If the processor remains in non-low-power mode to avoid transition costs, then transition frequency is reduced, but energy efficiency is compromised due to higher ongoing power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter of minimum residency time from a fixed value to a dynamic value that adjusts based on actual current leakage measurements and operating conditions. This allows the system to optimize the balance between transition frequency and energy efficiency by adapting the residency time threshold to match real-time power state characteristics.
3Device complexity
If fixed minimum residency time criteria are used for low-power mode selection, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to inability to account for current leakage variability
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by having the processor monitor its own actual current leakage and use this information to adjust its own low-power mode transition criteria. The framework module within the processor enables the device to autonomously adapt its power management strategy without requiring external calibration or complex external control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments include a method performed by a processor system of a computing device for managing power modes of the processor system. Embodiments may include identifying a minimum residency time of a low-power mode of the processor system based on actual current leakage at runtime of the processor system, identifying a cost of the low-power mode based in part on the minimum residency time of the low-power mode, determining based on the cost of the low-power mode whether transitioning to the low-power mode will result in cost savings as compared to a cost of operating in at least one other power mode of the processor system, and configuring the processor system for the low-power mode in response to determining that transitioning to the low-power mode will result in cost savings. Cost savings may be energy savings, performance savings, latency savings, or other forms of measurable costs.