Switched Power Supply Path for Storage Unit Idle State
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power source management techniques in computer systems are complex and inefficient, particularly in portable devices where power conservation is crucial due to limited battery life.
Innovation Solution
A computer system with power source control comprising a first storage unit, a second storage unit, a processor, and a switch, where the switch is used to cut off power to the second storage unit when it is idle, reducing power consumption by controlling the power supply path between the power supply module and the second storage unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If power source management is executed by software based on user settings and usage habits, then power consumption can be adjusted according to different scenarios, but the system becomes complex in setting and poor in efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects storage unit access states and controls power supply without user intervention. The controller monitors whether the processor accesses the second storage unit and automatically turns the switch on or off, eliminating the need for manual power management settings by users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces software-based power management with a hardware-controlled solution. A physical switch on the power supply path is controlled by a controller based on processor access states, substituting complex software management with a simpler hardware control mechanism.
2Speed
If the second storage unit remains powered on for quick access, then access speed is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply state of the second storage unit dynamically changes based on actual access needs. The switch is turned on when the processor accesses the storage unit and turned off when not accessed, making the power supply state adaptive rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The system periodically monitors the access state of the second storage unit and adjusts power supply accordingly. The controller checks whether the processor is accessing the storage unit and toggles the power supply in response to these periodic status checks.
3Loss of energy
If the switch is turned off to save power, then power consumption is reduced, but access time increases when power is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The controller receives feedback about the processor's access state to the second storage unit and adjusts the switch state accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures the storage unit is powered on exactly when needed and powered off when not needed, optimizing both power consumption and access time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains the ability to quickly power on the second storage unit when access is needed. The switch can be rapidly turned on from the off state, providing quick access without requiring the storage unit to remain continuously powered.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer system with power source control and a power source control method are presented. The computer system at least includes a first storage unit and a second storage unit, and the first storage unit stores a system program required by the computer system in basic operation. A switch is disposed on a power supply path between a power supply module and the second storage unit, such that the power supply module provides an electric power for the second storage unit to operate through the switch. When the second storage unit is in an idle state, the switch is used to cut off the power supply to the second storage unit, so as to effectively reduce the power consumption of the computer system.