Programmable IC Power Domains for Shared Processor Resources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated circuits (ICs) with programmable circuitry and embedded processor systems face challenges in efficiently sharing processor hardware resources and managing power independently, limiting their flexibility and operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a hard-wired processor system with programmable circuitry allows for the sharing of processor hardware resources and independent power management, enabling the programmable circuitry to be powered on or off under processor control, while the processor system can operate independently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the processor system and programmable circuitry share the same power supply, then power management is simplified, but the ability to independently manage power for each component is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into separate power domains: a first power supply for the processor system and a second power supply for the programmable circuitry. This segmentation enables independent power management, allowing each component to be powered on or off separately based on operational requirements, thus resolving the contradiction between simplified power management and independent power control capability.
2Productivity
If the processor system continuously powers the programmable circuitry, then resource sharing is maximized, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The programmable circuitry is powered on only when needed for configuration or operation, and powered off when not in use. The processor system selectively activates the second power supply based on operational requirements, enabling periodic operation rather than continuous operation. This approach maintains resource sharing capability while significantly reducing overall power consumption.
3Speed
If the programmable circuitry is always powered on for configuration, then configuration speed is maintained, but power efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Configuration data is prepared and loaded into the programmable circuitry's memory before the actual configuration operation begins. When configuration is needed, the second power supply is activated and the pre-loaded configuration data is rapidly transferred, enabling fast configuration without requiring continuous power. After configuration, the second power supply can be turned off, maintaining power efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit can include a processor system configured to execute program code. The processor system can be hard-wired and include a processor hardware resource. The IC also can include a programmable circuitry configurable to implement different physical circuits. The programmable circuitry can be coupled to the processor system. The programmable circuitry can be configurable to share usage of the processor hardware resource of the processor system. The processor system further can control aspects of the programmable circuitry such as power on and/or off and also configuration of the programmable circuitry to implement one or more different physical circuits therein.