Self power audit and control circuitry for microprocessor functional units
US6785826B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 17, 1996 |
| Grant date | Aug 31, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 18, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F1/3203
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for reducing power dissipation within a functional unit of a microprocessor includes a power sensing circuit for sensing power dissipation of the functional unit. A low power mode identifying circuit identifies when the measured power dissipation of the functional unit exceeds a predetermined amount or value. Upon such a condition, a low power mode circuit operates the functional unit in a low power mode thereby reducing its power dissipation. Operation of the functional unit in the low power mode continues until the power dissipation reaches a safe level. The functional unit internally determines power dissipation and selectively enters a low power mode to reduce power dissipation of the functional unit. Low power mode operation of the functional unit reduces power dissipation of the functional unit.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.