Processor Core Voltage Control via Dynamic Search
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Solution Overview
Problem
Processor cores face challenges in determining a minimum operation voltage for efficient power consumption without compromising performance, as reducing voltage below a certain threshold can lead to circuit malfunction and varying minimum voltage requirements based on current consumption, temperature, and manufacturing characteristics.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that include an operation voltage searching core which sets and adjusts the voltage levels based on the normal execution of a program by the processor core, using a voltage supplier and wake-up timer to determine and control the minimum operation voltage, and turn off unnecessary voltage to minimize power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the operation voltage is decreased to reduce power consumption, then power consumption is reduced, but the operation frequency is also decreased and performance may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage adjustment by continuously monitoring processor operation status and adjusting the operation voltage in real-time. The voltage is decreased to minimum levels when the processor is idle or in low-power states, and increased when full performance is needed, resolving the contradiction between power consumption and performance by making the voltage adaptive rather than static
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operation voltage parameter based on processor state. By dynamically modifying this critical electrical parameter, the system achieves low power consumption during idle periods while maintaining the capability to provide full voltage and performance when required, thus resolving the trade-off between energy efficiency and productivity
2Use of energy by moving object
If the operation voltage is decreased below a certain threshold, then power consumption is reduced, but the circuit may not be appropriately operated and normal operation becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the processor core monitors its own operation status and provides this information to the voltage control logic. This feedback loop ensures that voltage is only decreased to minimum levels when the processor confirms it can operate reliably at those levels, preventing voltage reduction below the operational threshold and maintaining circuit reliability while still achieving power savings
Solution Approach 2:
The processor core performs self-monitoring of its operational status and actively participates in the voltage control decision-making process. By having the processor assess its own ability to operate at reduced voltages, the system ensures reliability is maintained while achieving power consumption reduction, as the processor itself determines when minimum voltage is sufficient for its operation
3Use of energy by moving object
If the operation voltage is dynamically adjusted, then power consumption is optimized, but it is difficult to determine the minimum voltage value after chip design due to variations in current consumption, temperature, and manufacturing characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-calibration mechanism where the processor core itself determines the minimum operational voltage through iterative testing and monitoring. The processor attempts operation at progressively lower voltages and uses its own operational feedback to identify the minimum viable voltage level, eliminating the need for complex external characterization equipment and simplifying the post-manufacturing determination process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary voltage characterization during the first operation of the processor after manufacturing. The system systematically tests and stores the minimum operational voltage value in non-volatile memory during this initial phase, so that subsequent operations can use this pre-determined value without requiring complex real-time determination, thus reducing device complexity while enabling power optimization
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus for controlling an operation voltage of a processor core and a processor system including the same are provided. The apparatus for controlling an operation voltage of a processor core includes a voltage supplier and an operation voltage searching core. The voltage supplier supplies the operation voltage to the processor core. The operation voltage searching core requests the processor core to execute a program, and controls the operation voltage based on whether the program has been normally operated.