Memory-based power stabilization in a network device
US11307773B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 3, 2019 |
| Grant date | Apr 19, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 22, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH03K2005/00019
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
According to an embodiment, power demands of a computing device or component thereof may be stabilized by performing redundant operations during periods of otherwise low power demand. In so doing, the current load of the device/component remains relatively stable, potentially greatly reducing voltage droops and overshoots. This can reduce the peak voltage and peak power rating of the device/component. In certain embodiments, such as in network switches and routers, the redundant operations may include queries against a content addressable memory (CAM), such as a ternary content addressable memory (TCAM). Moreover, in an embodiment the queries may be designed to always, or at least be highly likely to, miss the entries in the CAM, thereby ensuring maximum power usage. In another embodiment, the redundant operations include read operations on a random access memory (RAM). In other embodiments, redundant operations may be performed with respect to other power-intensive subsystems.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.