Integrated circuit with on-board power utilization information

A system and method for storing power utilization information in an integrated circuit and utilizing such information. Various aspects of the present invention provide an integrated circuit that comprises a first module, which stores power utilization information for at least a portion of the integrated circuit. A second module of the integrated circuit may communicate the power utilization information with an electrical device external to the integrated circuit. Various aspects of the present invention provide a method for storing power utilization information in an integrated circuit. For example, a performance characteristic and/or a power supply characteristic may be monitored as the integrated circuit is utilized. Power utilization information may be determined from the monitored characteristic(s), and the power utilization information may be stored in the integrated circuit. Various aspects of the present invention also provide a system and method for utilizing an integrated circuit having on-board power utilization information.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

SEQUENCE LISTING

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Electronic circuits may have a variety of respective power input requirements. Such requirements may, for example, include requirements as to power supply level and/or power supply quality. This may even be the case, for example, when the electronic circuits are generally designed to operate in a similar power input range. For example, for optimal performance, a first circuit may require first electrical power that is characterized by a first set of power characteristics (e.g., a first voltage level), and a second circuit may require second electrical power that is characterized by a second set of power characteristics (e.g., a second voltage level) that is different than the first set of power characteristics. In an exemplary scenario where the first and second circuits are generally designed to operate in a common voltage range, the first and second sets of power characteristics (e.g., first and second voltage levels) may still be substantially different. Additionally, desired input power characteristics for an electrical circuit may change over time (e.g., during circuit operation).

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Various aspects of the present invention provide a system and method for storing power utilization information for an integrated circuit, or portion thereof, in an integrated circuit and utilizing such power utilization information, substantially as shown in and/or described in connection with at least one of the figures, as set forth more completely in the claims. These and other advantages, aspects and novel features of the present invention, as well as details of illustrative aspects thereof, will be more fully understood from the following description and drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1illustrates an exemplary integrated circuit100comprising on-board power utilization information, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. The integrated circuit100may comprise any of a large variety of integrated circuit characteristics. For example and without limitation, the integrated circuit100may comprise a microprocessor, memory, signal processor, communication circuit, user interface circuit, sensor circuitry, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular type of circuit or integrated circuit.

The exemplary integrated circuit100may comprise a power information module110. The power information module110may, for example, store power utilization information for the integrated circuit and/or a module of the integrated circuit.

The power utilization information may comprise any of a variety of characteristics. For example and without limitation, the power utilization information may comprise information related to electrical power received by the integrated circuit and/or a portion thereof.

The power utilization information may comprise information related to various aspects of electrical power. For example and without limitation, the power utilization information may comprise information of voltage and current level. The power utilization information may, for example, comprise information of voltage and/or current variability, such as, for example, tolerance range, ripple, or other fluctuation information. Also for example, the power utilization information may comprise information of noise level and power supply load response characteristics. The power utilization information may also, for example, comprise information regarding power and/or energy consumed by at least a portion of the integrated circuit and/or other circuitry.

The power utilization information may comprise information of preferable power supply characteristics for the integrated circuit and/or a portion thereof. For example, the power utilization information may also comprise information of preferable power supply characteristics for electrical circuitry other than the integrated circuit. In a non-limiting exemplary scenario, a plurality of integrated circuits may perform individual tasks in support of an aggregate task. In such a non-limiting exemplary scenario, the power utilization information may comprise information of power supply characteristics for one or more of the plurality of integrated circuits.

The power utilization information may comprise information of preferable (e.g., optimal or near-optimal) power supply characteristics for the integrated circuit or a portion thereof. For example, the power utilization information may comprise information of power supply characteristics that are preferred for the operation of the integrated circuit. Such power supply characteristics may be preferred for any of a variety of reasons, including but not limited to, functional performance level, longevity, noise reduction, energy efficiency, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by any particular rationale for preferring one set of power supply characteristics to another.

The power utilization information may, for example, comprise information of a recommended range of power supply characteristics provided to the integrated circuit and/or a portion thereof. In an exemplary scenario, the power utilization information may comprise information of a voltage range over which a manufacturer recommends that the integrated circuit be operated.

The power utilization information may, for example, comprise information of estimated or actual preferred power supply characteristics for the integrated circuit or a portion thereof. For example and without limitation, power utilization information may be determined for an integrated circuit by direct test of the integrated circuit, test of a proxy integrated circuit representative of a manufacturing batch, computer simulation, theoretical analysis, test of an aggregate circuit of which the integrated circuit is a part, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular manner in which the power utilization information may be determined.

The power utilization information may, for example, comprise information of circuit performance correlated to power supply characteristics. For example and without limitation, the power utilization information may comprise one or more power supply characteristics correlated to optimal processing performance, one or more power supply characteristics correlated to optimal energy efficiency, one or more power supply characteristics correlated to a compromise between processing performance and energy-efficiency, etc.

The power utilization information may, for example, be based at least in part on power supply characteristics that are monitored during utilization of the integrated circuit, a portion thereof, or an aggregate circuit of which the integrated circuit is a part. Also for example, the power utilization information may be further based, at least in part, on performance characteristics that are monitored during use of the integrated circuit, a portion thereof, or an aggregate circuit of which the integrated circuit is a part.

Such monitoring of power supply characteristics and/or performance characteristics may, for example, occur during utilization of the integrated circuit in a test environment (e.g., at an integrated circuit or other product manufacturing facility). In an exemplary scenario, an integrated circuit test station at a manufacturing facility may test the integrated circuit at a variety of power supply characteristics to determine the power supply characteristics at which the integrated circuit operates best or at which the integrated circuit meets performance requirements.

Such monitoring may also, for example, occur during commercial utilization of the integrated circuit (e.g., as the integrated circuit is utilized for its intended purpose in a consumer product). In an exemplary scenario, a commercial product incorporating the integrated circuit may comprise monitoring components that monitoring power supply characteristics and/or performance of the integrated circuit during typical consumer use of a commercial product incorporating the integrated circuit.

In general, power supply and/or performance characteristics for the integrated circuit may be monitored in any of variety of manners. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular manner in which various power supply characteristics or performance characteristics may be monitored during use of the integrated circuit.

The power information module110may comprise any of a variety of information storage circuit characteristics. For example, the power information module110may comprise hardware components, software components or a combination thereof. The power information module110may, for example, comprise circuitry for hard-wired power utilization information. The power information module110may, for example, comprise a read-only or one-time-writable memory. The power information module110may, for example, comprise a re-writable memory. Such memory may, for example, be non-volatile, but may also be volatile in particular circuit scenarios. The power information module110may, for example, comprise circuitry for communicating or assisting to communicate the power utilization information with other devices. In general, the power information module110may comprise any of a variety of information storage circuit characteristics. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular hardware and/or software implementations of an information storage module.

The exemplary integrated circuit100may comprise a power information communication interface module120. The communication interface module120may be communicatively coupled to the power information module110(e.g., with an internal data bus115). Alternatively, for example, the communication interface module120may be communicatively coupled to the power information module110through shared memory access. In general, the communication interface module120may be communicatively coupled to the power information module110in any of a variety of known manners.

The power information communication interface module120may, for example, communicate power utilization information (e.g., as stored in the power information module110) to various electrical devices. For example and without limitation, such an electrical device may comprise an electrical device150external to the integrated circuit100. Such an electrical device150may, for example, comprise power supply circuitry that receives power utilization information from the communication interface module120and utilizes such power utilization information to control power supply characteristics. Such power supply circuitry may, for example and without limitation, provide the electrical power105, or a portion thereof, to the integrated circuit100.

Such an electrical device150may alternatively, for example, comprise integrated circuit and/or product test circuitry, which may determine power utilization information and communicate such power utilization information to the communication interface module120for ultimate storage in the power information module110. Such an electrical device150may, for example, comprise consumer product circuitry (e.g., consumer product circuitry that utilizes the integrated circuit). Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular electrical device with which the communication interface module120may communicate power utilization information.

The communication interface module120may communicate with such an external device150utilizing a data bus125. Such a data bus125may, for example and without limitation, comprise a data bus dedicated to power utilization information. Such a data bus125may alternatively, for example, comprise a general data bus, which may be utilized to communicate power utilization information. Such a data bus125may further, for example, comprise a data communication channel that physically resides on a power supply line.

In general, the power information communication interface module120may communicate the power utilization information with an electrical device (e.g., external to the integrated circuit100). Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular communication interface circuitry, which may comprise hardware, software or a combination thereof.

FIG. 2illustrates an exemplary integrated circuit200comprising modules having respective on-module power utilization information, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. The integrated circuit200may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the exemplary integrated circuit100illustrated inFIG. 1and discussed previously. For example, the integrated circuit200may comprise any of a large variety of integrated circuit characteristics.

The exemplary integrated circuit200may comprise a first functional module210. The first functional module210may generally comprise a hardware and/or software module that performs a beneficial function. Such a function may, for example and without limitation, comprise microprocessor functionality, signal processing, user interfacing, communication interfacing, etc. The integrated circuit200may, for example, comprise only the first functional module210or may comprise additional functional modules. A functional module may, for example, be distinct from or partially integrated with another functional module. In other words, there need not always be a distinction between particular portions of two functional modules.

In an exemplary scenario, two different functional modules may be completely physically distinct from each other. In another exemplary scenario, two functional modules may comprise software differences but share the same hardware. In yet another exemplary scenario, two functional modules may share a portion of hardware and/or software (e.g., utilizing the same processor, I/O circuitry, software, etc.). In general, a functional module comprises a circuit, which might comprise hardware and/or software aspects, that performs a beneficial function in an integrated circuit. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular functional module or by characteristics of a particular relationship between functional modules.

The exemplary first functional module210may comprise a power information sub-module212that stores power utilization information for the first functional module210or a portion thereof. The power information sub-module212may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the power information module110of the exemplary integrated circuit100illustrated inFIG. 1and discussed previously.

The exemplary first functional module210may comprise a power information communication interface sub-module214that communicates the power utilization information for the first functional module210to a module external to the first functional module210. The communication interface sub-module214may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the power information communication interface module120of the exemplary integrated circuit100illustrated inFIG. 1and discussed previously.

For example, the communication interface sub-module214may communicate the power utilization information directly to another module that is internal to the integrated circuit200or external to the integrated circuit200.

The exemplary integrated circuit200comprises a power information communication interface module220for the integrated circuit200. The communication interface module220may share various aspects with the communication interface module120of the exemplary integrated circuit100illustrated inFIG. 1and discussed previously.

The communication interface sub-module214of the first functional module210may be communicatively coupled (e.g., through an internal data bus215) to the communication interface module220for the integrated circuit200. In such an exemplary configuration, the communication interface module220may serve as a communication interface between the first functional module210and devices external to the integrated circuit200.

The power information communication interface module220may, for example, communicate power utilization information (e.g., as stored in the power information sub-module212) to various electrical devices. For example and without limitation, such an electrical device may comprise an electrical device external to the integrated circuit200. Such an electrical device may, for example, comprise power supply circuitry that receives power utilization information from the communication interface module220and utilizes such power utilization information to control power supply characteristics. Such power supply circuitry may, for example and without limitation, provide the electrical power205, or a portion thereof, to the integrated circuit200.

The exemplary communication interface module220may also, for example, communicate power utilization information with other modules within the integrated circuit200. For example, in an exemplary scenario, the communication interface module220may communicate power utilization information of the first functional module210with the third functional module240. The exemplary third functional module240may comprise any of a large variety of the circuit characteristics discussed previously. The third functional module240may, for example and without limitation, comprise characteristics of processor circuitry, user interface circuitry, communication circuitry, power regulation circuitry, etc.

As mentioned previously, the exemplary integrated circuit200may comprise functional modules in addition to the first functional module210. The exemplary integrated circuit200illustrated inFIG. 2comprises a second functional module230. The second functional module230may share various characteristics with the first functional module210. As mentioned previously, the first and second functional modules210,230may be completely distinct or may share various hardware and/or software components. In fact, in some scenarios, the first and second functional modules210,230may perform a same beneficial function, while utilizing at least a portion of different hardware and/or software.

The second functional module230may, similar to the first functional module210, comprise a power information sub-module232that stores power utilization information for the second functional module230. The power information sub-module232may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the power information sub-module212of the first functional module210discussed previously.

The exemplary second functional module230may comprise a power information communication interface sub-module234that communicates the power utilization information for the second functional module230to a module external to the second functional module230. The communication interface sub-module234may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the communication interface sub-module214of the first functional module210discussed previously.

For example, the communication interface sub-module234may communicate the power utilization information directly to another module that is internal to the integrated circuit200or external to the integrated circuit200. The communication interface sub-module234of the second functional module230may, for example, be communicatively coupled (e.g., through an internal data bus215or a different bus) to the communication interface module220for the integrated circuit200. In such an exemplary configuration, the communication interface module220may serve as a communication interface between the second functional module230and devices external to the integrated circuit200.

FIG. 3illustrates an exemplary electrical system300utilizing on-board power utilization information, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. The exemplary electrical system300may comprise characteristics of any of a large variety of electrical systems. For example and without limitation, the electrical system300may comprise characteristics of an audio/video/data processing system, a communication system, a computing system, a control system, a user interface system, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of any particular electrical system300.

The exemplary electrical system300may comprise a first integrated circuit310. The first integrated circuit310may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the exemplary integrated circuit100illustrated inFIG. 1and discussed previously. For example, the first integrated circuit310may comprise a power information module that stores power utilization information for at least a portion of the first integrated circuit310. The first integrated circuit310may also comprise a power information communication interface module that communicates the power utilization information for the first integrated circuit310to an electrical device external to the integrated circuit.

In the exemplary system300illustrated inFIG. 3, the first integrated circuit310(e.g., the power information communication interface module) is communicatively coupled with a power supply circuit320through a power information data bus315. The power information data bus315may, for example, comprise any of a variety of data bus characteristics. The power information data bus315may comprise a general-purpose data bus, a portion of the power supply bus, a bus dedicated to power information, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular data bus.

The power supply circuit320may comprise an interface module322that communicates power utilization information (e.g., as communicated over the power information data bus315). The interface module322of the power supply circuit320may, for example, be communicatively coupled to the power information communication interface module of the first integrated circuit310.

The power supply circuit320may comprise a power output module324that provides electrical power to the first integrated circuit310over the power supply bus305. Characteristics of the electrical power may, for example, be based at least in part on power utilization information communicated with the interface module322by the first integrated circuit310. Such electrical power may comprise a single power signal or a plurality of power signals (e.g., at respective voltage levels or other power supply characteristics).

In an exemplary scenario, power utilization information communicated between the first integrated circuit310and the power supply circuit320may comprise information of a preferred operating voltage for the first integrated circuit310. The power output module324of the power supply circuit320may provide electrical power to the first integrated circuit310over the power supply bus305, where the electrical power is characterized by the preferred operating voltage.

Note that the power supply circuit320may communicate power utilization information with the first integrated circuit310in either direction (i.e., sending or receiving). In a non-limiting exemplary scenario, the power supply circuit320may communicate power utilization information to the first integrated circuit310for storage in the power information module of the first integrated circuit310. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by directional characteristics of power utilization information flow.

The exemplary system300may also comprise a second integrated circuit330. The second integrated circuit330may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the first integrated circuit310discussed previously. For example, the second integrated circuit330may comprise a power information module that stores second power utilization information for at least a portion of the second integrated circuit330. The second integrated circuit330may also, for example, comprise a power information communication interface module that communicates the second power utilization information (e.g., with the interface module322of the power supply circuit320.

The power output module324may provide electrical power to the second integrated circuit330over the power supply bus305. In the exemplary system300illustrated inFIG. 3, the first integrated circuit310and the second integrated circuit330receive electrical power over the same power supply bus305. In an alternative scenario, the first and second integrated circuits310,330may receive electrical power over separate power supply buses.

The characteristics of the electrical power may, for example, be based at least in part on power utilization information communicated with the interface module322of the power supply circuit320by the second integrated circuit330. In an exemplary scenario, the characteristics of the electrical power may, for example, be based on power utilization information communicated with both the first integrated circuit310and the second integrated circuit330. In such an exemplary scenario, the power supply circuit320may process (e.g., arbitrate) power utilization information from a plurality of integrated circuits to determine characteristics of provided electrical power.

The exemplary system300may also, for example, comprise a third integrated circuit360and a fourth integrated circuit370. The third and fourth integrated circuits360,370may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the first integrated circuit310. Alternatively, the third and fourth integrated circuits360,370might not comprise the power information storage and communication capabilities of the first and second integrated circuits310,330.

FIG. 4illustrates a flow diagram for an exemplary method400of providing power utilization information in an integrated circuit, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. For example and without limitation, the exemplary method400may share various aspects with the functionality discussed previously with regard to the exemplary integrated circuits100,200and system300illustrated inFIGS. 1-3and discussed previously.

The exemplary method400may begin at step410. The exemplary method400(and other exemplary methods discussed herein) may begin for any of a variety of reasons. For example and without limitation, the exemplary method400may begin in response to a direct command to begin, either by a user or apparatus. Also for example, the method400may begin upon initiation of a production test sequence or utilization of the integrated circuit in a consumer product. Further for example, the method400may begin in response to real-time conditions that occur during utilization of the integrated circuit. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of any particular initiating causes or conditions.

The exemplary method400may, at step420, comprise utilizing the integrated circuit in an electrical circuit. The electrical circuit may comprise any of a large variety of electrical circuit characteristics. For example and without limitation, the electrical circuit may comprise test circuitry (e.g., production and/or acceptance test circuitry). Also for example, the electrical circuit may comprise consumer product circuitry (e.g., electrical circuitry built for use by the general public or other groups of consumers).

In an exemplary production scenario where the electrical circuit comprises production test circuitry, the integrated circuit may be utilized in the electrical circuit in accordance with an operational test sequence. Such a test sequence might, for example, be utilized to test the integrated circuit, a portion of the integrated circuit, an electrical circuit comprising the integrated circuit, or any product comprising the integrated circuit.

In another exemplary scenario where the electrical circuit comprises consumer product circuitry, utilizing the integrated circuit may comprise utilizing the integrated circuit by utilizing the consumer product for its intended purpose. Such utilization may, for example, comprise use of the consumer product by an end consumer or by product production personnel.

In general, step420may comprise utilizing the integrated circuit in an electrical circuit. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular utilization of the integrated circuit in a particular electrical circuit.

The exemplary method400may, at step440, comprise determining power utilization information based, at least in part, on the utilization of the integrated circuit in the electrical circuit.

As mentioned previously, the power utilization information may comprise any of a variety of characteristics, which step440may comprise determining. For example and without limitation, step440may comprise determining information related to electrical power received by the integrated circuit and/or a portion thereof.

The power utilization information may comprise information related to various aspects of electrical power. For example and without limitation, step440may comprise determining information of voltage and/or current level. Also for example, step440may comprise determining information of voltage and/or current variability, such as, for example, tolerance range, ripple, or other fluctuation information.

Also for example, step440may comprise determining information of noise level and power supply load response characteristics. Step440may also comprise determining information regarding power and/or energy consumed by at least a portion of the integrated circuit and/or other circuitry.

Step440may, for example comprise determining information of preferable power supply characteristics for the integrated circuit and/or a portion thereof. Also for example, step440may comprise determining information of preferable power supply characteristics for electrical circuitry other than the integrated circuit. In a non-limiting exemplary scenario, a plurality of integrated circuits may perform individual tasks in support of an aggregate task. In such a non-limiting exemplary scenario, step440may comprise determining information of power supply characteristics for one or more of the plurality of integrated circuits.

Step440may, for example, comprise determining information of preferable (e.g., optimal or near-optimal) power supply characteristics for the integrated circuit or a portion thereof. Step440may also, for example, comprise determining information of power supply characteristics that are preferred for the operation of the integrated circuit. Step440may comprise determining that such power supply characteristics are preferred for any of a variety of reasons, including but not limited to, functional performance level, longevity, noise reduction, energy efficiency, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by any particular rationale for determining that one set of power supply characteristics is preferred over another.

In an exemplary scenario where performance of the integrated circuit is characterized by a plurality of performance characteristics, step440may comprise determining the power utilization information based, at least in part, on priority of the various performance characteristics. For example and without limitation, step440may comprise determining the power utilization information based only on the highest priority performance characteristic and corresponding power supply characteristics. Also for example, step440may comprise determining the power utilization information based on a weighted average of performance characteristic priorities and corresponding power supply characteristics.

Step440may, for example, comprise determining information of a recommended range of power supply characteristics provided to the integrated circuit and/or a portion thereof. In an exemplary scenario, step440may comprise determining information of a voltage range over which a manufacturer recommends that the integrated circuit be operated.

Step440may, for example, comprise determining information of estimated or actual preferred power supply characteristics for the integrated circuit or a portion thereof. For example and without limitation, step440may comprise determining power utilization information for an integrated circuit by directly testing the integrated circuit, testing a proxy integrated circuit representative of a manufacturing batch, performing computer simulation, performing theoretical analysis, testing an aggregate circuit of which the integrated circuit is a part, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular manner in which the power utilization information may be determined.

Step440may also, for example, comprise determining power utilization information that comprises information of circuit performance correlated to power supply characteristics. For example and without limitation, step440may comprise determining power utilization information that comprises one or more power supply characteristics correlated to optimal processing performance, one or more power supply characteristics correlated to optimal energy efficiency, one or more power supply characteristics correlated to a compromise between processing performance and energy-efficiency, etc.

Step440may, for example, comprise determining power utilization information based, at least in part, on power supply characteristics that are monitored during utilization of the integrated circuit, a portion thereof, or an aggregate circuit of which the integrated circuit is a part. Further for example, step440may comprise determining power utilization information based, at least in part, on performance characteristics that are monitored during use of the integrated circuit, a portion of the integrated circuit, or an aggregate circuit of which the integrated circuit is a part.

In an exemplary scenario, step440may comprise monitoring power supply characteristics and/or performance characteristics during utilization of the integrated circuit in a test environment (e.g., at an integrated circuit or other product manufacturing facility). In such an exemplary scenario, step440may comprise utilizing an integrated circuit test station at a manufacturing facility to test the integrated circuit at a variety of power supply characteristics to determine the power supply characteristics at which the integrated circuit operates best or at which the integrated circuit meets performance requirements.

In another exemplary scenario, step440may comprise performing such monitoring during commercial utilization of the integrated circuit (e.g., as the integrated circuit is utilized for its intended purpose in a consumer product). In such an exemplary scenario, step440may, for example, comprise utilizing the integrated circuit in a commercial product that comprises internal monitoring components that monitor power supply characteristics and/or performance of the integrated circuit during typical commercial use of the consumer product.

In general, step440may comprise monitoring power supply and/or performance characteristics for the integrated circuit in any of variety of manners. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular manner in which various power supply characteristics or performance metrics may be monitored during use of the integrated circuit.

The exemplary method400may, at step450, comprise storing power utilization information (e.g., as determined at step440) in the integrated circuit. Step450may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the functionality discussed previously with regard to the power information modules and power information communication interface modules of the exemplary systems100-300illustrated inFIGS. 1-3and discussed previously.

For example, step450may comprise writing the determined power utilization information in a memory circuit on-board the integrated circuit. Further for example, step450may comprise writing the determined power utilization information in a one-time writable memory circuit on-board the integrated circuit. Also for example, step450may comprise writing the determined power utilization information in re-writable memory on-board the integrated circuit. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular manner of storing information in an integrated circuit.

Step450may, for example, comprise communicating determined power information with the integrated circuit over a data bus. Such a data bus may comprise any of a variety of data bus characteristics. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular manner of communicating data.

The exemplary method400may, at step460, comprise performing continued processing. Such continued processing may comprise any of a large variety of continued processing. For example and without limitation, step460may comprise looping back up to step420for continued power utilization analysis, determination and information storage. The scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of any particular continued processing.

FIG. 5illustrates a flow diagram for an exemplary method500of providing power utilization information in an integrated circuit, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. The exemplary method500may, for example and without limitation, share various aspects with the exemplary method400illustrated inFIG. 4and discussed previously. Also for example and without limitation, the exemplary method500may share various aspects with the functionality discussed previously with regard to the exemplary integrated circuits100,200and system300illustrated inFIGS. 1-3and discussed previously.

The exemplary method500may, at step520, comprise utilizing the integrated circuit in an electrical circuit. Step520may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with step420of the exemplary method400illustrated inFIG. 4and discussed previously.

The exemplary method500may, at step530, comprise monitoring various characteristics during utilization of the integrated circuit in the electrical circuit (e.g., as in step520). Step530may, at sub-step532, comprise monitoring at least one performance characteristic of the integrated circuit, a portion of the integrated circuit, an electrical circuit that comprises the integrated circuit, a consumer product that comprises the integrated circuit, etc.

As mentioned previously, such performance characteristics may comprise any of a variety of performance characteristics. For example and without limitation, such performance characteristics may comprise processing speed, data rate, response time, error rate, noise level, temperature, energy-efficiency, accuracy, resolution, etc. The scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by particular performance characteristics.

Step530may, at step534, comprise monitoring at least one power supply characteristic of electrical power supplied to the integrated circuit, a portion of the integrated circuit, an electrical circuit that comprises the integrated circuit, a consumer product that comprises the integrated circuit, etc.

As mentioned previously, such power supply characteristics may comprise any of a variety of power supply characteristics. For example and without limitation, such power supply characteristics may comprise voltage level, current level, voltage variability, noise level, load response characteristics, ripple level, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by particular power supply characteristics.

The exemplary method500may, at step540comprise determining power utilization information (e.g., based, at least in part, on the performance and/or power supply characteristics monitored at step530). Step540may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with step440of the exemplary method400illustrated inFIG. 4and discussed previously.

For example, step540may comprise determining a power supply characteristic at which the integrated circuit performs optimally. Also for example, step540may comprise determining one or more recommended power supply characteristics of electrical power provided to the integrated circuit. Further for example, step540may comprise determining a recommended range of power supply characteristics of electrical power provided to the integrated circuit. Still further for example, step540may comprise determining correlated power supply characteristic and performance characteristic information. Step540may, for example, comprise identifying at least one power supply characteristic that corresponds to preferable performance (e.g., optimal performance or performing to specifications) of the integrated circuit.

In an exemplary scenario involving a plurality of performance characteristics to consider, step540may, for example, comprise determining power utilization information based, at least in part, on performance characteristic priority. In making such a determination, step540may, for example, base the power utilization information solely on a highest priority performance characteristic. Alternatively for example, step540may base the power utilization information on a weighted averaging of weighted performance characteristics and corresponding power supply characteristics.

In general, step540may comprise determining power utilization information (e.g., based, at least in part, on the performance and/or power supply characteristics monitored at step530). Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular power utilization information or a manner of determining such information.

The exemplary method500may, at step550, comprise storing the determined power utilization information (e.g., as determined at step540) in the integrated circuit. Step550may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with step450of the exemplary method400illustrated inFIG. 4and discussed previously.

FIG. 6illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method600of utilizing an integrated circuit that comprises on-board power utilization information, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention.

The exemplary method600may, at step620, comprise providing electrical power to the integrated circuit (e.g., initial power). Step620may, for example and without limitation, comprise providing electrical power to the integrated circuit in any of a variety of manners and utilizing any of a variety of power supply circuitry (e.g., a controllable power supply circuit).

The exemplary method600may, at step630, comprise establishing a communication link with the integrated circuit over which power utilization information may be communicated. Such a communication link may comprise any of a variety of communication link characteristics. For example and without limitation, step630may comprise establishing a communication link with the integrated circuit over a general-purpose data bus or over a data bus dedicated to communicating power utilization information. Step630may, for example, comprise establishing a communication link over a power supply line. Step630may, for example, comprise establishing the communication link over any of a variety of media and utilizing any of a variety of communication protocols.

In general, step630may comprise establishing a communication link with the integrated circuit over which power utilization information may be communicated. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular communication link.

The exemplary method600may, at step640, comprise communicating power utilization information with the integrated circuit (e.g., over the communication link established at step630), where at least a portion of the power utilization information is stored in the integrated circuit. Step640may comprise any of a variety of entities communicating the power utilization information with the integrated circuit. For example and without limitation, power supply circuitry (e.g., similar to the power supply circuit320illustrated inFIG. 3and discussed previously) may communicate power utilization information with the integrated circuit. Such communication may, for example, comprise one-way or two-way communication of the power utilization information.

The exemplary method600may, at step650, comprise determining whether an adjustment to characteristics of electrical power presently being provided to the integrated circuit is necessary. Step650may comprise making such a determination in any of a variety of manners. For example and without limitation, step650may comprise analyzing power utilization information (e.g., as communicated at step640) to determine whether characteristics of electrical power that is presently being provided to the integrated circuit are appropriate.

In an exemplary non-limiting scenario, the power utilization information may comprise information of a preferred operating voltage level for the integrated circuit that is significantly different than the present voltage level. In such an exemplary scenario, step650may comprise determining that one or more of the power characteristics (e.g., the voltage level) of the electrical power presently being provided to the integrated circuit should be modified.

In general, step650may comprise determining whether an adjustment to characteristics of electrical power presently being provided to the integrated circuit is necessary. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular manner of making such a determination.

The exemplary method600may, at step660, comprise controlling the execution flow of the method600. If, for example, step650determines that an adjustment to characteristics of electrical power presently being provided to the integrated circuit is not necessary, then step660may direct the execution flow of the method600to step680for continued processing. If, however, step650determines that an adjustment to characteristics of electrical power presently being provided to the integrated circuit is necessary, then step660may direct the execution flow of the method600to step670for a power adjustment.

The exemplary method600may, at step670, comprise providing electrical power to the integrated circuit, where at least one characteristic of the electrical power is based, at least in part, on the power utilization information (e.g., as communicated at step640). For example and without limitation, step670may comprise adjusting at least one of the present characteristics of electrical power presently provided to the integrated circuit.

Step670may comprise adjusting characteristics of electrical power, based at least in part on the power utilization information, in any of a variety of manners. For example and without limitation, step670may comprise exactly matching the characteristics of electrical power provided to the integrated circuit to characteristics specified in the power utilization information. Continuing the previous exemplary scenario where the power utilization information comprises information of a preferred voltage level, step670may comprise adjusting the electrical power provided to the integrated circuit so that the electrical power is characterized by the preferred voltage level.

Alternatively for example, step670may comprise utilizing the power utilization information as a guide from which to determine characteristics of electrical power provided to the integrated circuit. Such electrical power may, for example, be provided to a plurality of integrated circuits, each with respective power supply needs.

In an exemplary scenario where a power supply is providing electrical power to a plurality of integrated circuits, step670may comprise arbitrating between respective power supply needs of the plurality of integrated circuits. Such arbitration may, for example, be based on respective priorities of the integrated circuits. For example, step670may comprise providing electrical power having characteristics specified by a highest priority integrated circuit. Also for example, step670may comprise providing electrical power having characteristics determined by a weighted calculation of integrated circuit priorities and power supply needs.

In general, step670may comprise adjusting characteristics of electrical power, based at least in part on the power utilization information. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular power supply adjustment or manner of determining or making a power supply adjustment.

It should be noted that the various exemplary methods and systems illustrated inFIGS. 1-6and discussed previously may apply to modules within an integrated circuit, an integrated circuit, or a group of integrated circuits. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of arbitrary circuit boundaries and divisions. In general, the methods and systems illustrated inFIGS. 1-6are merely exemplary, and accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of the exemplary illustrations.

It should be stressed that various aspects of the present invention may be performed by hardware, a processor executing software instructions, or a combination thereof. Further, it should be noted that various aspects of the present invention may be implemented by hardware and/or software with varying degrees of integration and/or distribution. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of any particular implementation.