Reference Current Source for Memory Wakeup Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microcontroller systems face inefficiencies in waking up from power saving mode due to fixed waiting times for a reference current source to reach a target current, which can be influenced by environmental conditions, leading to increased power consumption and prolonged wake-up times.
Innovation Solution
A microcontroller system that enables a reference current source for a memory module to begin operations when the current reaches a substantial fraction of the target reference current, rather than waiting for a predetermined time, using an internal or external reference current circuit with a calibration module and a copy branch to generate a 'ready' signal for memory operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the system waits for the reference current source to reach the target reference current before enabling memory operations, then the memory operations can be performed accurately, but the wakeup time from power saving mode is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by enabling memory operations when the reference current reaches a substantial fraction (e.g., 80-90%) of the target reference current, rather than waiting for 100% target current. This partial completion approach reduces wakeup time while maintaining sufficient accuracy for memory operations, resolving the contradiction between reliability and time loss.
2Speed
If the reference current source is kept active continuously, then the wakeup time is reduced, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-charging the reference current source to a substantial fraction of the target current while the system is in power saving mode, before the actual wakeup is needed. This preliminary preparation reduces the time required for full current establishment during wakeup, improving wakeup speed while allowing the system to save power by keeping the current source in a low-power pre-charged state rather than fully active.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the reference current source adjustable between different operational states: fully active (for fast wakeup), pre-charged to substantial fraction (for balanced performance), and disabled (for maximum power saving). The system dynamically selects the appropriate state based on whether wakeup is needed, resolving the contradiction between wakeup speed and power consumption.
3Device complexity
If a fixed waiting time is used for the reference current to reach target current, then the system is simple to implement, but the wakeup time cannot be optimized for varying environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a monitoring mechanism that tracks when the reference current reaches a substantial fraction of the target current. This feedback signal triggers the transition to memory operations, replacing the fixed waiting time approach. The feedback-based system adapts to environmental conditions (temperature, etc.) that affect current rise time, improving versatility while adding only minimal circuit complexity for current monitoring and comparison.
Data Source
AI summary
A microcontroller system is determining to exit a power saving mode and, in response, enable a reference current source to begin providing a reference current for a memory module. The microcontroller system determines that the reference current has reached a substantial fraction of a target reference current, and, in response to determining that the reference current has reached a substantial fraction of the target reference current, enables the memory module to begin performing one or more memory operations.