Patent Publication Number: US-9429973-B2

Title: Power control system with performance monitoring

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS/INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE 
     This patent application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/735,004, filed on Jan. 6, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,639,473, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/358,804, filed Jan. 26, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,352,217, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/950,762, filed on Nov. 19, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,108,181, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/185,216, filed on Aug. 4, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,840,379, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/158,176, filed on Jun. 21, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,409,315, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/583,913, filed on Jun. 28, 2004. This patent application is related to and claims priority from provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/583,913, filed Jun. 28, 2004 (mentioned above), and entitled “ON-BOARD PERFORMANCE MONITOR AND POWER CONTROL SYSTEM,” the contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     [Not Applicable] 
     SEQUENCE LISTING 
     [Not Applicable] 
     MICROFICHE/COPYRIGHT REFERENCE 
     [Not Applicable] 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     In electronic systems utilizing a power supply, a variety of integrated circuit chips, and variety of sub-circuits or modules within integrated circuit chips, the electronic systems may operate at various performance levels. Performance level may vary as a result of any of a variety of causes and conditions. For example and without limitation, power supply variation may affect performance level. Also for example, performance of a first component or subsystem may affect the performance of a second component or subsystem. Further for example, environmental conditions may affect performance level. 
     In various operational scenarios, desired performance level of a subsystem or component may vary. For example, in a first exemplary scenario, maximum performance level may be desired. In a second exemplary scenario, for example, a moderate performance level (e.g., at enhanced energy-efficiency) may be desired. In a third exemplary scenario, for example, a low performance level (e.g., in a power-save mode) may be desired. 
     In various operational scenarios, the performance level of a subsystem or component (including, for example, an integrated circuit) may not be as desired. For example, a system, subsystem or component may be operating at a relatively high performance level when a relatively low performance level is desired. Conversely for example, a system, subsystem or component may be operating at a relatively low performance level when a relatively high performance level is desired. 
     Further limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditional approaches will become apparent to one of skill in the art, through comparison of such systems with the present invention as set forth in the remainder of the present application with reference to the drawings. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Various aspects of the present invention provide a system and method for controlling characteristics of supplied electrical power and/or performance based on monitored performance characteristics, 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. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  shows a diagram of an exemplary performance control system, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  shows a diagram of an exemplary power control system, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates an exemplary method for controlling performance, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates an exemplary method for controlling power, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  shows a diagram of an exemplary performance control system, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  shows a diagram of an exemplary power control system, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates an exemplary method for controlling performance, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates an exemplary method for controlling power, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       FIG. 1  shows a diagram of an exemplary performance control system  100 , in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. The exemplary system  100  may comprise an integrated circuit  110  that receives electrical power  115 . The integrated circuit  110  may comprise characteristics of any of a large variety of integrated circuits. For example and without limitation, the integrated circuit  110  may comprise a signal processing circuit, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a programmable logic array, a memory circuit, a multi-chip module, a microcontroller, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular integrated circuit type. 
     The following discussion will often utilize the term “module” or “circuit module” to describe a circuit or sub-circuit that performs a function. It must be recognized that a module may be implemented in hardware, software or a combination thereof. It must also be noted that various portions of modules may be shared. For example, a first module and a second module may share various hardware components and/or software routines. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by particular module implementations or by arbitrary boundaries between modules. 
     The exemplary integrated circuit  110  may comprise a first circuit module  120  that receives electrical power  121  and utilizes the electrical power  121  to perform a function. The electrical power  121  may, for example, be identical to the electrical power  115  received by the integrated circuit  110  or may be different. For example, the electrical power  121  received by the first circuit module  120  may be related to (e.g., derived from) the electrical power  115  received by the integrated circuit  110  or may be independent. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of any particular relationship between electrical power received by the integrated circuit  110 , the first circuit module  120 , or any other module or component. 
     The first circuit module  120  may comprise characteristics of any of a large variety of circuit modules. For example and without limitation, the first circuit module  120  may comprise a signal processing module, a microprocessor module, an application-specific module, a programmable logic array module, a memory module, a plurality of coupled sub-modules, a microcontroller module, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular circuit module type. 
     The exemplary system  100  may comprise a second circuit module  130 . The exemplary second circuit module  130  may comprise a first sub-module  132  and a second sub-module  134 . The second circuit module  130  may, for example and without limitation, comprise a performance monitor module that monitors characteristics of module or integrated circuit performance and communicates information related to such monitoring activity. 
     The first sub-module  132  may, for example, monitor at least one performance characteristic of the integrated circuit  110 . Also for example, the first sub-module  132  may monitor at least one performance characteristic of the first circuit module  120 . Note that the first sub-module  132  may monitor at least one performance characteristic of the integrated circuit  110 , the first circuit module  120  and/or other modules of the integrated circuit  110 . 
     Monitored performance characteristics of the integrated circuit  110  or the first circuit module  120  may comprise any of a variety of circuit performance characteristics. For example and without limitation, such performance characteristics may comprise operational speed (e.g., processing speed, data throughput rate, delay time, response time, communication rate, etc.). Also for example, such performance characteristics may comprise operating temperature. Further for example, such performance characteristics may comprise a measurement of energy consumption or efficiency. Still further for example, such performance characteristics may comprise error rate or noise level. In general, the performance characteristics may comprise any of a variety of circuit performance characteristics. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by any particular circuit performance characteristics. 
     It should be noted that the first sub-module  132  may monitor one or more performance characteristics for a plurality of functional aspects of at least one of the integrated circuit  110  and the first circuit module  120 . For example, the first circuit module  120  may perform a plurality of discrete functions, performance characteristic(s) of which the first sub-module  132  may monitor. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular number of monitored performance characteristics or number of associated functional aspects. 
     Note that the first sub-module  132  may utilize any of a large variety of known or yet to be developed devices or mechanisms (e.g., performance sensors, detectors, hardware, software, etc.) to monitor performance characteristics. For example and without limitation, the first sub-module  132  may utilize a performance sensor or other circuitry incorporated in the first circuit module  120  or elsewhere in the integrated circuit  110  (e.g., as indicated by item  105 ) to monitor the performance of the first circuit module  120  or integrated circuit  110 . Also for example, the first sub-module  132  may communicate performance data with the first circuit module  120  (e.g., over a communication link, as exemplified by link  107 ) or portion of the integrated circuit  110  and process such performance data to ascertain one or more particular performance characteristics for the first circuit module  120  or the integrated circuit  110 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular devices or mechanisms for monitoring various performance characteristics. 
     The exemplary system  100  illustrates the first sub-module  132  monitoring at least one performance characteristic of the integrated circuit  110  and/or the first circuit module  120 . The first sub-module  132  may also, for example, monitor at least one performance characteristic of other circuit modules of the integrated circuit  110  that, for illustrative clarity, were not included in the  FIG. 1  illustration. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular number of circuit modules for which performance characteristics may be monitored by the first sub-module  132 . 
     The second circuit module  130  of the exemplary integrated circuit  110  may comprise a second sub-module  134 , communicatively coupled to the first sub-module  132 , that communicates with a third circuit module  140 ,  140 ′ regarding the at least one performance characteristic monitored by the first sub-module  132 . As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the third circuit module  140 ,  140 ′ may be a third circuit module  140  internal to the integrated circuit  110  or may be a third circuit module  140 ′ external to the integrated circuit  110 . The following discussion may refer to either the internal third circuit module  140  or the external third circuit module  140 ′. Such exemplary references are by no means to be construed as limiting various aspects of the third circuit module  140 ,  140 ′ to an internal or external location relative to the integrated circuit  110 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular location of the third circuit module  140 ,  140 ′. 
     The second sub-module  134  may communicate information with the third circuit module  140 ,  140 ′. Such information may, for example, comprise information of the at least one monitored performance characteristic. In an exemplary scenario where the first sub-module  132  monitors a performance characteristic of the first circuit module  120  related to operational speed, the second sub-module  134  may communicate information regarding the monitored operational speed with the third circuit module  140 ,  140 ′. For example, such information may comprise information (relative or absolute) describing the monitored operational speed. Such information may, for example, comprise relatively low-resolution information (e.g., a one-bit threshold comparison indication) or relatively high-resolution information (e.g., operational speed per nanosecond resolution). Such information may, for example, comprise information represented in an analog or digital signal. 
     Also for example, the second sub-module  134  may communicate information with the third circuit module  140 ,  140 ′ that comprises performance adjustment information. Such performance adjustment information may, for example, comprise a request for performance adjustment or a command for performance adjustment. Such performance adjustment information may comprise a request or command to adjust performance by a relative amount or by an absolute amount. In an exemplary scenario where the first sub-module  132  monitors an energy-efficiency characteristic, the second sub-module  134  may communicate information to the third circuit module  140 ,  140 ′ indicating that the energy-efficiency level should be increased. In another exemplary scenario where the first sub-module  132  monitors operating temperature, the second sub-module  134  may communicate information to the third circuit module  140 ,  140 ′ indicating that the operating temperature may be increased (or alternatively, that the operating temperature should be reduced). 
     The complexity of the second sub-module  134  may vary substantially. For example, in a first exemplary scenario, the second sub-module  134  may comprise a plurality of signal processing sub-circuits, each of which performs a signal processing or communicating activity (e.g., A/D conversion, data manipulation, data packaging, one or two-way data communication, etc.). In a second exemplary scenario, the second sub-module  134  may comprise a mere conduit (e.g., a wire or optical path) for information obtained by the first sub-module  132 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular degrees of module complexity. 
     As mentioned previously, the first sub-module  132  may monitor a plurality of performance characteristics for a plurality of functional aspects of a plurality of circuit modules. Accordingly, the second sub-module  134  may communicate information with the third circuit module  140 ,  140 ′ regarding any, some or all of such monitored performance characteristics. 
     In general, the second sub-module  134  may communicate with the third circuit module  140 ,  140 ′ regarding the at least one performance characteristic monitored by the first sub-module  132 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular monitored performance characteristic or a particular type of information that may be communicated regarding a monitored performance characteristic. 
     The third circuit module  140  may, for example and without limitation, comprise a power controller module. For example, the third circuit module  140  may process information received from the second sub-module  134  to determine power control information utilized to control power supply circuitry. The third circuit module  140  may process the received information to determine power control information in any of a variety of manners. 
     For example and without limitation, the third circuit module  140  may compare performance information to performance goal information. The third circuit module  140  may, for example, determine whether the first circuit module  120  or integrated circuit  110  is achieving performance goals. Such performance goals may, for example and without limitation, comprise goals related to processing speed, response time, operating temperature, energy consumption, energy-efficiency, error rate, data throughput, etc. 
     The third circuit module  140  may determine whether a performance adjustment is desired. The third circuit module  140  may also, for example, determine how much of a performance adjustment is desired. Such determination(s) may, for example, comprise balancing various performance goals, which may be complementary or adversely related. The third circuit module  140  may then, for example, correlate performance or a performance change to various power supply characteristic(s). The third circuit module  140  may, for example, determine power control request or command signals to communicate with other circuitry, where the request or command signals are designed to provide for control over one or more power supply characteristics. 
     In an exemplary scenario, the third circuit module  140  may process information of monitored performance characteristics from the second sub-module  134  and determine that, while data processing speed is substantially exceeding the minimum data processing speed goal, energy consumption is in excess of the maximum energy consumption goal. The third circuit module  140  may then, for example, determine that a 2% decrease in power supply voltage level will decrease the energy consumption below the maximum energy consumption goal, while still providing for data processing speed at or above the minimum data processing speed goal. 
     In another exemplary scenario, the third circuit module  140  may process information of monitored performance characteristics from the second sub-module  134  and determine that, while the communication error rate is substantially below the maximum error rate goal, the operating temperature is above the maximum temperature goal. The third circuit module  140  may then, for example, determine that a 1.5% reduction in power supply voltage level will decrease operating temperature below the maximum temperature goal, while still meeting the error rate goal. 
     In a further exemplary scenario, the third circuit module  140  may process information of monitored performance characteristics from the second sub-module  134  and determine that energy-efficiency goals are comfortably being met, while data throughput rate goals are not being met due to power supply voltage instability. The third circuit module  140  may then, for example, determine that a 20% increase in power supply switching rate may reduce voltage variability below an acceptable maximum level, while still meeting energy-efficiency goals. 
     As mentioned previously, the third circuit module  140  ( 140 ′) may be internal or external to the integrated circuit  110 . In an exemplary scenario where the third circuit module  140  is internal to the integrated circuit  110 , the third circuit module  140  may receive information regarding the at least one monitored performance characteristic from the second sub-module  134  and process such information to determine a power adjustment request (or command). The third circuit module  140  may then communicate the determined power adjustment request to power supply circuitry to request that the power supply circuitry modify various aspects of supplied electrical power. 
     In another exemplary scenario where the third circuit module  140 ′ is external to the integrated circuit  110 , the third circuit module  140 ′ may receive information regarding the at least one monitored performance characteristic from the integrated circuit  110  (e.g., originating at the second sub-module  134 ) and process such information to determine a power adjustment command (or request). The third circuit module  140 ′ may then communicate the determined power adjustment command to power supply circuitry to cause the power supply circuitry to modify various aspects of supplied electrical power. 
     In a further exemplary scenario where the third circuit module  140 ′ is external to the integrated circuit  110  and internal to a power supply integrated circuit, the third circuit module  140 ′ of the power supply integrated circuit may receive information regarding the at least one monitored performance characteristic from the integrated circuit  110  (e.g., originating at the second sub-module  134 ) and process such information to determine a power adjustment signal. The third circuit module  140 ′ of the exemplary power supply integrated circuit may then utilize the power adjustment signal to cause the power supply integrated circuit to modify various aspects of electrical power output from the power supply integrated circuit. 
     In general, the third circuit module  140 ,  140 ′ may be internal to the integrated circuit  110 , external to the integrated circuit  110 , an independent integrated circuit, part of a power supply integrated circuit, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular module location or integration. 
     As mentioned previously, the third circuit module  140  may receive information of one or more monitored performance characteristics for a plurality of modules and/or integrated circuits. In processing the received information to determine power supply control information, the third circuit module  140  may process the received information in any of a large variety of ways. 
     For example and without limitation, the third circuit module  140  may arbitrate between various modules and/or integrated circuits. Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective performance goals or needs of the plurality of modules and/or integrated circuits. Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective priorities of the plurality of modules and/or integrated circuits. For example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information in accordance with the performance goals or needs of the highest priority module. Also for example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information based on a priority-based or need-based weighted average. In general, such arbitration may comprise arbitrating between performance needs of various modules and/or integrated circuits. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular arbitration scheme. 
     The third circuit module  140  may communicate power control information to power supply circuitry that provides electrical power to the integrated circuit  110 , first circuit module  120 , or other circuit module or integrated circuit. Such power control information may, for example, comprise controlling signals that directly control operation of the power supply circuitry. Such power control information may, for example, comprise a power supply request or command, which may be interpreted and processed by power supply circuitry that receives such a request or command. Such power control information may, for example, comprise any of a variety of information related to monitored performance of the integrated circuit  110 , first circuit module  120 , other circuit module(s), other integrated circuit(s), etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular power control information or by a particular destination for such power control information. 
     The exemplary system  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1  and discussed previously is merely exemplary and was presented to illustrate a non-limiting portion of various aspects of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should by no means be limited by characteristics of the exemplary system  100 . 
       FIG. 2  shows a diagram of an exemplary power control system  200 , in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. The exemplary system  200  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the exemplary system  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1  and discussed previously. 
     The exemplary system  200  may comprise an integrated circuit  210  that receives electrical power  215 ,  245 . Portions of the exemplary integrated circuit  210  may, for example, share various characteristics with the exemplary integrated circuit  110  of the system  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1  and discussed previously. 
     The exemplary system  200  may comprise a power supply circuit  280  that provides electrical power  215 ,  245  to the integrated circuit  210 . The exemplary power supply circuit  280  may comprise a first power output module  282  that outputs electrical power  215  to the integrated circuit  210  and/or one or more modules thereof. The exemplary power supply circuit  280  may also, for example, comprise a second power output module  284  that outputs electrical power  245  to the integrated circuit  210  and/or one or more modules thereof. Note that the second power output  245  from the power supply circuit  280  may, for example, be output from the second power output module  284  or may (as indicated by the dashed line) be output from the first power output module  282 . Accordingly, the second power output  245  from the power supply circuit  280  may be related to the first power output  215  or may be independent. 
     The exemplary power supply circuit  280  may, for example, comprise a control interface module  286  through which electrical devices external to the power supply circuit  280  may communicate with the power supply circuit  280 . For example and without limitation, electrical devices external to the power supply circuit  280  may utilize the control interface module  286  to communicate power control information with the power supply circuit  280 . 
     The power supply circuit  280  may comprise any of a large variety of power supply circuit characteristics. For example and without limitation, the power supply circuit  280  may be an independent power supply integrated circuit. The power supply circuit  280  may, for example, comprise discrete active and passive electrical components. The power supply circuit  280  may, for example, comprise one or more linear or non-linear regulators. Also for example, the power supply circuit  280  may comprise switching power supply circuitry (e.g., in a buck, boost, buck-boost or charge pump configuration). The power supply circuit  280  may, for example, comprise analog, digital or hybrid circuitry. The power supply circuit  280  may, for example, comprise one or more independently controllable outputs. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular type of power supply circuit. 
     The exemplary integrated circuit  210  may comprise a first circuit module  220  that receives electrical power  221 . The first circuit module  220  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the first circuit module  120  of the exemplary system  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1  and discussed previously. 
     Similarly, the exemplary integrated circuit  210  may comprise a second circuit module  230 . The second circuit module  230  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the second circuit module  130  of the exemplary system  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1  and discussed previously. 
     Further, the exemplary integrated circuit  210  may comprise a third circuit module  240 . The third circuit module  240  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the third circuit module  140  of the exemplary system  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1  and discussed previously. 
     The exemplary integrated circuit  210  may comprise a fourth circuit module  250  that receives electrical power  251 . The fourth circuit module  250  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the first circuit module  220 . 
     The electrical power  251  received by the fourth circuit module  250  may, for example, be identical to the electrical power  245  received by the integrated circuit  210  or may be different. For example, the electrical power  251  received by the fourth circuit module  250  may be related to (e.g., derived from) the electrical power  245  received by the integrated circuit  210  or may be independent. Also for example, the electrical power  251  received by the fourth circuit module  250  may be related to the electrical power  215  received by the integrated circuit  210  or the electrical power  221  received by the first circuit module  220  or may be independent. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of any relationship between electrical power  215 ,  245  received by the integrated circuit  210 , electrical power  221 ,  251  received by the first circuit module  221  and fourth circuit module  250 , or electrical power received by any other module or component. 
     The fourth circuit module  250  may, for example, comprise characteristics of any of a large variety of circuit modules. For example and without limitation, the fourth circuit module  250  may comprise a signal processing module, a microprocessor module, an application-specific module, a programmable logic array module, a memory module, a plurality of coupled sub-modules, a microcontroller module, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular circuit module type. 
     The exemplary system  200  may comprise a fifth circuit module  260 . The fifth circuit module  260  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the second circuit module  230 . 
     For example, the exemplary fifth circuit module  260  may comprise a first sub-module  262  and a second sub-module  264 . The fifth circuit module  260  may, for example and without limitation, comprise a performance monitor module that monitors performance characteristics of modules or integrated circuits and communicates information related to such monitoring activity. 
     The first sub-module  262  may, for example, monitor at least one performance characteristic of the integrated circuit  210 . Also for example, the first sub-module  262  may monitor at least one performance characteristic of the fourth circuit module  250  and/or other modules of the integrated circuit  210 . Note that the first sub-module  262  may monitor at least one performance characteristic of the integrated circuit  210  and/or the fourth circuit module  250 . 
     It should be noted that the first sub-module  262  may monitor one or more performance characteristics for a plurality of functions performed by at least one of the integrated circuit  210  and the fourth circuit module  250 . For example, the fourth circuit module  250  may perform a plurality of discrete functions, performance characteristics of which the first sub-module  262  may monitor. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular number of monitored performance characteristics or number of associated functional aspects. 
     Note that, as with the first sub-modules  232 ,  132  discussed previously, the first sub-module  262  may utilize any of a large variety of known or yet to be developed devices or mechanisms (e.g., performance sensors, detectors, hardware, software, etc.) to monitor performance characteristics. For example and without limitation, the first sub-module  262  may utilize a performance sensor or other circuitry incorporated in the fourth module  250  or elsewhere in the integrated circuit  110  (e.g., as indicated by item  206 ) to monitor the performance of the fourth sub-module  250  or integrated circuit  210 . Also for example, the first sub-module  262  may communicate performance data with the fourth module  250  (e.g., over a communication link, as exemplified by link  208 ) or portion of the integrated circuit  210  and process such performance data to ascertain one or more particular performance characteristics for the fourth module  250  or the integrated circuit  210 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular devices or methods for monitoring various performance characteristics. 
     The exemplary system  200  illustrates the first sub-module  262  monitoring at least one performance characteristic of the integrated circuit  210  and/or the fourth circuit module  250 . The first sub-module  262  may also, for example, monitor at least one performance characteristic of other circuit modules of the integrated circuit  210 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular number of circuit modules for which performance characteristics may be monitored by the first sub-module  262 . 
     The fifth circuit module  260  of the exemplary system  100  may comprise a second sub-module  264 , communicatively coupled to the first sub-module  262 , that communicates with the third circuit module  240  regarding the at least one performance characteristic monitored by the first sub-module  262 . As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the third circuit module  240  may be internal to the integrated circuit  210 . However, the third circuit module  240  need not be internal to the integrated circuit  210 . The scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular location of the third circuit module  240 . 
     The second sub-module  264  may communicate information with the third circuit module  240 . Such information may, for example, comprise information of the at least one monitored performance characteristic. In an exemplary scenario where the first sub-module  262  monitors a performance characteristic of the fourth circuit module  250  related to operational speed, the second sub-module  264  may communicate information regarding the monitored operational speed with the third circuit module  240 . For example, such information may comprise information (relative or absolute) describing the monitored operational speed. Such information may, for example, comprise relatively low-resolution information (e.g., a one-bit threshold comparison indication) or relatively high-resolution information (e.g., operational speed per nanosecond resolution). 
     Also for example, the second sub-module  264  may communicate information with the third circuit module  240  that comprises performance adjustment information. Such performance adjustment information may, for example, comprise a request for performance adjustment or a command for performance adjustment. Such performance adjustment information may comprise a request or command to adjust performance by a relative amount or by an absolute amount. In an exemplary scenario where the first sub-module  262  monitors an energy-efficiency characteristic, the second sub-module  264  may communicate information to the third circuit module  240  indicating that the energy-efficiency level should be increased. In another exemplary scenario where the first sub-module  262  monitors operating temperature, the second sub-module  264  may communicate information to the third circuit module  240  indicating that the operating temperature may be increased (or alternatively, that the operating temperature should be reduced). 
     As mentioned previously, the first sub-module  262  may monitor a plurality of performance characteristics for a plurality of functions for a plurality of circuit modules. Accordingly, the second sub-module  264  may communicate information with the third circuit module  240  regarding any, some or all of such monitored characteristics. 
     In general, the second sub-module  264  may communicate with the third circuit module  240  regarding the at least one performance characteristic monitored by the first sub-module  262 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular monitored performance characteristic or particular type of information that may be communicated regarding a monitored performance characteristic. 
     As mentioned previously, the exemplary system  200  may comprise a third circuit module  240  with which the second sub-module  264  may communicate information regarding the at least one monitored performance characteristic. Also as previously discussed, the third circuit module  240  may be internal to the integrated circuit  210 , or the third circuit module  240  may be external to the integrated circuit  210 . The following discussion may generally refer to the third circuit module  240  as being internal to the integrated circuit  210 . Such exemplary discussion is by no means to be construed as limiting various aspects of the third circuit module  240  to an internal location relative to the integrated circuit  210 . 
     For example and without limitation, the third circuit module  240  may comprise a power controller module. For example, the third circuit module  240  may process information received from the second sub-module  264  to determine power control information utilized to control power supply circuitry. As mentioned in the previous discussion of the exemplary third circuit module  140  of  FIG. 1 , the third circuit module  240  may process the received information to determine power control information in any of a variety of manners. 
     In an exemplary scenario, the third circuit module  240  may receive information regarding the at least one monitored performance characteristic from the second sub-module  264  and process such information to determine a power adjustment request (or command). The third circuit module  240  may then communicate the determined power adjustment request to power supply circuitry to request that the power supply circuitry modify various aspects of supplied electrical power. For example, the third circuit module  240  may communicate a power adjustment request through the control interface module  286  to at least one of the first power output module  282  and the second power output module  284  of the power supply circuit  280 . The power supply circuit  280  may then, for example, respond to the communicated power adjustment request (or command) by adjusting one or more characteristics of electrical power output from the power supply circuit  280 . 
     As mentioned previously, the third circuit module  240  may receive information regarding one or more monitored performance characteristics for a plurality of modules and/or integrated circuits. In processing the received information to determine power supply control information, the third circuit module  240  may process the received information in any of a large variety of ways. 
     For example and without limitation, the third circuit module  240  may arbitrate between various modules and/or integrated circuits. Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective performance goals or needs of the plurality of modules and/or integrated circuits. Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective priorities of the plurality of modules and/or integrated circuits. For example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information in accordance with the performance goals or needs of the highest priority module. Also for example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information based on a priority-based or need-based weighted average. 
     In an exemplary scenario, the third circuit module  240  may receive information regarding monitored performance characteristics from the second sub-module  234  of the second circuit module  230  and from the second sub-module  264  of the fifth circuit module  260 . The third circuit module  240  may, in the exemplary scenario, determine that the performance goals or needs of the first circuit module  220  outweigh the performance goals or needs of the fourth circuit module  250 , and determine power supply control information based on the performance goals or needs of the first circuit module  220  and the information regarding the monitored performance characteristics received from the second circuit module  230 . 
     Alternatively, for example, the third circuit module  240  may, in an exemplary scenario, determine that the performance goals or needs of the first circuit module  220  and the fourth circuit module  250  are equal, and determine power supply control information based equally on the performance goals or needs of the first circuit module  220  and monitored performance characteristics received from the second circuit module  230 , and on the performance goals or needs of the fourth circuit module  250  and monitored performance characteristics received from the fifth circuit module  260 . 
     In general, such arbitration may comprise arbitrating between performance goals or needs of various modules. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular arbitration scheme. 
     The third circuit module  240  may communicate power control information to the power supply circuit  280  that provides electrical power to the integrated circuit  210 , first circuit module  220 , fourth circuit module  250  or other circuit module or integrated circuit. The third circuit module  240  may, for example, communicate power control information to the power supply circuit  280  through the control interface module  286 . 
     Such power control information may, for example, comprise controlling signals that directly control operation of the power supply circuit  280  (e.g., the first power output module  282  and/or the second power output module  284 ). Such power control information may, for example, comprise a power supply request or command, which may be interpreted and processed by power supply circuit  280 . In general, such power control information may, for example, comprise any of a variety of information related to monitored performance of the integrated circuit  210 , first circuit module  220 , fourth circuit module  250 , other circuit module(s), other integrated circuit(s), etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular power control information or by a particular destination for such power control information. 
     The exemplary system  200  illustrated in  FIG. 2  and discussed previously is merely exemplary, and was presented to illustrate a non-limiting portion of various aspects of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should by no means be limited by characteristics of the exemplary system  200 . 
       FIG. 3  illustrates an exemplary method  300  for controlling performance (e.g., in an integrated circuit), in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. The exemplary method  300  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with functionality discussed previously with regard to the exemplary systems  100 ,  200  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-2 . 
     The exemplary method  300  may begin at step  310 . The exemplary method  300  (and any method discussed herein) may begin in response to any of a large variety of causes and conditions. For example and without limitation, the method  300  may begin automatically when a system that is implementing the method  300  is powered up. Alternatively, for example, the method  300  may begin in response to an explicit command to begin (e.g., a command from another module in the system or from a user). Further for example, the method  300  may begin in response to a detected operating condition. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of any particular initiating events or conditions. 
     The exemplary method  300  may, at step  320 , comprise monitoring at least one performance characteristic of at least one of the integrated circuit and a first circuit module of the integrated circuit. For example and without limitation, step  320  may share various characteristics with the functionality performed by the first sub-module  132  of the exemplary system  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1  and discussed previously. 
     The integrated circuit and/or first circuit module may comprise any of a large variety of integrated circuit or module characteristics. For example and without limitation, the integrated circuit and/or module may comprise signal processing circuitry, microprocessor circuitry, application-specific integrated circuitry, programmable logic array circuitry, memory circuitry, multi-chip module circuitry, microcontroller circuitry, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular integrated circuit or module type. 
     As mentioned previously, monitored performance characteristics of the integrated circuit or the first module may comprise any of a variety of circuit performance characteristics. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by any particular circuit performance characteristics. 
     It should be noted that exemplary step  320  may comprise monitoring one or more performance characteristics for one or more functional aspects of at least one of the integrated circuit and the first circuit module of the integrated circuit. For example, the first circuit module may perform a plurality of functions, performance characteristic(s) of which step  320  may comprise monitoring. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular number of monitored performance characteristics or number of functional aspects. 
     Also, step  320  may comprise monitoring at least one performance characteristic of other circuit modules of the integrated circuit. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular number of circuit modules for which step  320  comprises monitoring at least one performance characteristic. 
     The exemplary method  300  may, at step  330 , comprise communicating information related to the monitored at least one performance characteristic with a third circuit module. Such a third circuit module may, for example, comprise circuitry internal or external to the integrated circuit. For example and without limitation, step  330  may share various characteristics with the functionality performed by the second sub-module  134  of the exemplary system  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1  and discussed previously. 
     The third circuit module may comprise any of a large variety of electrical circuit characteristics. For example and without limitation, the third circuit module may comprise characteristics of the third circuit module  140 ′ (or  140 ) of the exemplary system  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1  and discussed previously. Also for example, the third circuit module may comprise characteristics of the third circuit module  240  and/or control interface module  286  of the exemplary system  200  illustrated in  FIG. 2  and discussed previously. 
     For example, the third circuit module may comprise a power controller module. Such a power controller module may, for example, be an independent circuit module or an independent integrated circuit. Such a power controller module may, for example, be a component of a power supply circuit (e.g., a power supply integrated circuit). The third circuit module may, for example, comprise a power supply circuit that provides power to the integrated circuit and/or the first circuit module of the integrated circuit. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular circuit module. 
     The information related to the monitored at least one performance characteristic may comprise any of a large number of information types. For example and without limitation, such information may comprise information of the at least one monitored characteristic. In an exemplary scenario where step  320  comprises monitoring an operational speed characteristic of the integrated circuit, step  330  may comprise communicating information regarding the monitored operational speed with the third circuit module. For example, such information may comprise information (relative or absolute) describing the monitored operational speed. Such information may, for example, comprise relatively low-resolution information (e.g., a one-bit threshold comparison indication) or relatively high-resolution information (e.g., operational speed per nanosecond resolution). Such information may, for example, comprise information represented in an analog or digital format. 
     Also for example, step  330  may comprise communicating information with the third circuit module that comprises performance adjustment information. Such performance adjustment information may, for example, comprise a request for performance adjustment or a command for performance adjustment. Such performance adjustment information may comprise a request or command to adjust performance by a relative amount or by an absolute amount. In an exemplary scenario where step  320  comprises monitoring an energy-efficiency characteristic, step  330  may comprise communicating information to the third circuit module indicating that the energy-efficiency level should be increased (e.g., by an increment or a particular amount). In another exemplary scenario where step  320  comprises monitoring an operating temperature characteristic, step  330  may comprise communicating information to the third circuit module indicating that the operating temperature may be increased (or alternatively, that the operating temperature should be reduced). 
     Step  330  may, for example, also comprise determining the information to communicate to the third circuit module. Such a determination may vary substantially in complexity. For example, in a first exemplary scenario, step  330  may comprise performing an array of signal processing and/or information communicating activities (e.g., A/D conversion, data manipulation, data packaging, one or two-way data communication, etc.). In a second exemplary scenario, step  330  may comprise merely forwarding the information obtained at step  320 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular degrees of information processing or communicating complexity. Additional exemplary aspects of determining the information to communicate to the third circuit module will be discussed regarding the exemplary method  400  illustrated in  FIG. 4 . 
     As mentioned previously, step  320  may comprise monitoring a plurality of performance characteristics for a plurality of functional aspects of a plurality of circuit modules and/or the integrated circuit. Accordingly, step  330  may comprise communicating information with the third circuit module regarding any, some or all of such monitored characteristics. 
     In general, exemplary step  330  may comprise communicating with a third circuit module, which may be internal or external to the integrated circuit, regarding the at least one performance characteristic monitored at step  320 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by aspects of a particular monitored performance characteristic or particular type of information that may be communicated regarding a monitored performance characteristic. 
     The exemplary method  300  may, at step  350 , comprise performing continued processing. Such continued processing  350  may, in the exemplary method  300  and all methods discussed herein, comprise characteristics for any of a large variety of continued processing. Such continued processing  350  may, for example, comprise looping back to repeat previous steps of the method  300 . Such continued processing  350  may, for example, comprise entering a wait state before repeating previous steps. Also for example, such continued processing  350  may comprise performing additional power control processing. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of any particular type of continued processing. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates an exemplary method  400  for controlling power, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. The exemplary method  400  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the exemplary method  300  illustrated in  FIG. 3  and discussed previously. Further for example, the exemplary method  400  may share various characteristics with functionality discussed previously with regard to the exemplary systems  100 ,  200  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-2  and discussed previously. 
     The exemplary method  400  may, at step  420 , comprise monitoring (e.g., internal to an integrated circuit) at least one performance characteristic of at least one of the integrated circuit and a first circuit module of the integrated circuit. For example and without limitation, step  420  may share various characteristics with step  320  of the exemplary method  300  illustrated in  FIG. 3  and discussed previously. Also for example, step  420  may share various characteristics with the functionality performed by the first sub-module.  132  of the exemplary system  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1  and discussed previously and functionality performed by the first sub-module  232  of the second circuit module  230  of the exemplary system  200  illustrated in  FIG. 2  and discussed previously. 
     The exemplary method  400  may, at step  430 , comprise monitoring (e.g., internal to the integrated circuit) at least one performance characteristic of a second circuit module of the integrated circuit. For example, step  430  may share various characteristics with step  420 , albeit with regard to a second circuit module rather than the first circuit module. 
     The exemplary method  400  may, at step  440 , comprise determining power control information from an analysis of at least a portion of performance characteristics monitored at steps  420  and  430 . For example and without limitation, step  440  may share various characteristics with the functionality discussed previously with regard to the second sub-module  134  and third circuit module  140  of the exemplary system  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1  and discussed previously, and with the third circuit module  240  of the exemplary system  200  illustrated in  FIG. 2  and discussed previously. 
     Such power control information may, for example, comprise controlling signals that directly control operation of the power supply circuitry. Such power control information may, for example, comprise a power supply request or command, which may be interpreted and processed by power supply circuitry that receives such a request or command. Such power control information may, for example, comprise any of a variety of information related to monitored performance characteristics monitored at steps  420  and  430 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular power control information. 
     Step  440  may comprise determining power control information by analyzing the performance characteristics monitored at steps  420  and  430  in any of a variety of ways. For example and without limitation, step  440  may comprise arbitrating between various modules and/or integrated circuits. Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective performance goals or needs of the plurality of modules and/or integrated circuits. Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective priorities of the plurality of modules and/or integrated circuits. For example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information in accordance with the performance goals or needs of the highest priority module. Also for example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information based on a priority-based or need-based weighted average. 
     In an exemplary scenario, step  440  may comprise processing information regarding performance characteristics of a first circuit module (e.g., as monitored at step  420 ) and information regarding performance characteristics of a second circuit module (e.g., as monitored at step  430 ). Step  440  may, in the exemplary scenario, comprise determining that the performance goals or needs of the first circuit module outweigh the performance goals or needs of the second circuit module, and determining power supply control information based on the performance goals or needs of the first circuit module and the information regarding performance characteristics of the first circuit module. 
     In another exemplary scenario, step  440  may comprise processing information regarding performance characteristics of a first circuit module (e.g., as monitored at step  420 ) and information regarding performance characteristics of a second circuit module (e.g., as monitored at step  430 ). Step  440  may, in the exemplary scenario, comprise determining that the performance goals or needs of the first circuit module are equal to the performance goals or needs of the second circuit module, and determining power supply control information based equally on the performance goals or needs of the first circuit module and the information regarding performance characteristics of the first circuit module, and with the performance goals or needs of the second circuit module and the information regarding performance characteristics of the second circuit module. 
     In still another exemplary scenario, step  440  may comprise processing information regarding performance characteristics of a first circuit module (e.g., as monitored at step  420 ) and information regarding performance characteristics of a second circuit module (e.g., as monitored at step  430 ). Step  440  may, in the exemplary scenario, comprise determining that the performance goals or needs of the first circuit module are prioritized higher than the performance goals or needs of the second circuit module, and determining power supply control information based on a priority-based weighted average of the performance goals or needs of the first circuit module and the information regarding performance characteristics of the first circuit module, and the performance goals or needs of the second circuit module and the information regarding performance characteristics of the second circuit module. 
     In general, exemplary step  440  may comprise determining power control information from an analysis of performance characteristics monitored at steps  420  and  430 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular analysis or determination of power control information. 
     The exemplary method  400  may, at step  450 , comprise communicating the power control information (e.g., as determined at step  440 ) to power supply circuitry that provides electrical power to the first and second circuit modules. For example and without limitation, step  450  may share various characteristics with step  330  of the exemplary method  300  illustrated in  FIG. 3  and discussed previously. Also for example, step  450  may share various characteristics with functionality performed by the second sub-module  134  and third circuit module  140  of the exemplary system  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1  and discussed previously, and with the third circuit module  240  of the exemplary system  200  illustrated in  FIG. 2  and discussed previously. 
     The exemplary method  400  discussed above presents an exemplary illustration comprising monitoring performance characteristics of first and second circuit modules (or the integrated circuit) and determining power control information based, at least in part, on such monitored performance characteristics. It should be noted that various aspects of the exemplary illustration are readily extensible to systems comprising any number of circuit modules. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited to a particular number of circuit modules for which performance characteristics may be monitored and utilized to determine power control information. 
       FIG. 5  shows a diagram of an exemplary performance control system  500 , in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. For example and without limitation, the exemplary system  500  may share various characteristics with the exemplary systems  100 ,  200  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-2  and discussed previously. 
     The exemplary system  500  may comprise a first electrical device  510  that receives electrical power  511 . The first electrical device  510  may comprise characteristics of any of a large variety of electrical devices. For example and without limitation, the first electrical device  510  may comprise a signal processing circuit, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a programmable logic array, a memory circuit, a multi-chip module, a microcontroller, various combinations of active and/or passive components, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular electrical device type. 
     The exemplary system  500  may comprise an integrated circuit  520 . The electrical device  510  may, for example, be external to the integrated circuit  520 . The integrated circuit  520  may, in turn, comprise a first module  522 , a second module  524  and a third module  526 . The first module  522  may be communicatively coupled to the second module  524 , which may in turn, be communicatively coupled to the third module  526 . 
     For example and without limitation, the first module  522  may share various characteristics with the first sub-modules  132 ,  232 ,  262  of the exemplary systems  100 ,  200  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-2  and discussed previously. 
     The exemplary first module  522  may, for example, comprise a performance monitor module that monitors performance characteristics and communicates information related to such monitoring activity. The first module  522  may, for example, monitor at least one performance characteristic of the first electrical device  510 . 
     As discussed previously, monitored performance characteristics may comprise any of a variety of circuit performance characteristics. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by any particular circuit performance characteristics. 
     It should be noted that the first module  522  may monitor one or more performance characteristics for the first electrical device  510 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular number of performance characteristics that may be monitored. 
     Note that the first module  522  may utilize any of a large variety of known or yet to be developed devices or mechanisms (e.g., performance sensors, detectors, hardware, software, etc.) to monitor performance characteristics. For example and without limitation, the first module  522  may utilize a performance sensor or other circuitry incorporated in the first electrical device  510 , incorporated in the integrated circuit  520  (e.g., as indicated by item  508 ) or elsewhere in the system  500  (e.g., as indicated by item  509 ). Also for example, the first module  522  may communicate performance data with the first electrical device  510  and process such performance data to ascertain one or more particular performance characteristics for the first electrical device  510 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular devices or methods for monitoring various electrical power characteristics. 
     The exemplary system  500  illustrates the first module  522  monitoring at least one performance characteristic of the first electrical device  510 . The first module  522  may also, for example, monitor at least one performance characteristic of other electrical devices. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular number of devices for which performance characteristics may be monitored by the first module  522 . 
     The exemplary integrated circuit  520  may comprise a second module  524  with which the first module  522  may communicate information regarding the at least one monitored performance characteristic. For example and without limitation, the second module  524  may comprise a power controller module. For example, the second module  524  may process performance characteristic information received from the first module  522  to determine power control information, which may be utilized to control power supply circuitry. The second module  524  may process the received performance characteristic information to determine power control information in any of a variety of manners. 
     For example and without limitation, the second module  524  may compare information of monitored performance to performance goal information. The second module  524  may, for example, determine whether the first electrical device  510  (and/or other device) is achieving performance goals. Such performance goals may, for example and without limitation, comprise goals related to processing speed, response time, operating temperature, energy consumption, energy-efficiency, error rate, data throughput, etc. 
     The second module  524  may, for example, determine whether a performance adjustment is desired. The second module  524  may also, for example, determine how much of a performance adjustment is desired. Such determination(s) may, for example, comprise balancing various performance goals, which may be complementary or adversely related. The second module  524  may then, for example, correlate performance or a performance change to various power supply characteristic(s). The second module  524  may, for example, determine power control request or command signals to communicate with other circuitry, where the request or command signals are designed to provide for control over one or more power supply characteristics. 
     In an exemplary scenario, the second module  524  may process information of monitored performance characteristics from the first module  522  and determine that, while data processing speed is substantially exceeding the minimum data processing speed goal, energy consumption is in excess of the maximum energy consumption goal. The second module  524  may then, for example, determine that a 2% decrease in power supply voltage level will decrease the energy consumption below the maximum energy consumption goal, while still providing for data processing speed at or above the minimum data processing speed goal. The second module  524  may then, for example, determine power control information that, when processed by power supply circuitry, may cause such a 2% decrease in power supply voltage level. 
     In another exemplary scenario, the second module  524  may process information of monitored performance characteristics from the first module  522  and determine that, while the communication error rate is substantially below the maximum error rate goal, the operating temperature is above the maximum temperature goal. The second module  524  may then, for example, determine that a 1.5% reduction in power supply voltage level will decrease operating temperature below the maximum temperature goal, while still meeting the error rate goal. The second module  524  may then, for example, determine power control information that, when processed by power supply circuitry, may cause such a 1.5% reduction in power supply voltage level. 
     In a further exemplary scenario, the second module  524  may process information of monitored performance characteristics from the first module  522  and determine that energy-efficiency goals are comfortably being met, while data throughput rate goals are not being met due to power supply voltage instability. The second module  524  may then, for example, determine that a 20% increase in power supply switching rate may reduce voltage variation below an acceptable maximum level, while still meeting energy-efficiency goals. The second module  524  may then, for example, determine power control information that, when processed by power supply circuitry, may cause such a 20% increase in power supply switching rate. 
     As mentioned previously, the second module  524  may receive information of one or more monitored performance characteristics for a plurality of electrical devices (e.g., external to the integrated circuit  520 ). In processing the received information to determine power supply control information, the second module  524  may process the received information in any of a large variety of ways. 
     For example and without limitation, the second module  524  may arbitrate between various electrical devices. Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective performance goals or needs of the plurality of electrical devices. Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective priorities of the plurality of electrical devices. For example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information in accordance with the performance goals or needs of the highest priority electrical device. Also for example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information based on a priority-based or need-based weighted average. In general, such arbitration may comprise arbitrating between performance goals or needs of various electrical devices. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular arbitration scheme. 
     The third module  526  may receive the power control information determined by the second module  524  and communicate the power control information to a second electrical device  530  (e.g., external to the integrated circuit  520 ). The third module  526  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the second sub-module  134  and third circuit module  140  of the exemplary system  100  and the second sub-modules  234 ,  264  and third circuit module  240  of the exemplary system  200 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 1-2  and discussed previously. 
     The second electrical device  530  may, for example and without limitation, comprise power managing and/or power supply circuitry. The second electrical device  530  may, for example, provide electrical power to the integrated circuit  520 , first electrical device  510 , or other electrical device(s). The second electrical device  530  may comprise any of a variety of circuitry, and accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular type of electrical device. 
     The power control information may for example, comprise controlling signals that directly control operation of power supply circuitry. Such power control information may, for example, comprise a power supply request or command, which may be interpreted and processed by power supply circuitry that receives such a request or command. Such power control information may, for example, comprise any of a variety of information related to monitored performance of the first electrical device  510  or other electrical devices. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular power control information or by a particular destination for such power control information. 
     The complexity of the third module  526  may vary substantially, depending on the circuit and/or system architecture. For example, in a first exemplary scenario, the third module  526  may comprise a plurality of signal processing sub-circuits, each of which performs a signal processing or communicating activity (e.g., A/D conversion, data manipulation, data packaging, one or two-way data communication, etc.). In a second exemplary scenario, the third module  526  may comprise a mere conduit (e.g., a wire or optical path) for information determined by the second module  524 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular degrees of module complexity. 
     In general, the third module  526  may communicate with a second electrical device  530 , external to the integrated circuit  520 , regarding the power control information determined by the second module  540 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular monitored performance characteristic or a particular type of information that may be communicated regarding a monitored performance characteristic. 
     The exemplary system  500  illustrated in  FIG. 5  and discussed previously is merely exemplary and was presented to illustrate a non-limiting portion of various aspects of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should by no means be limited by characteristics of the exemplary system  500 . 
       FIG. 6  shows a diagram of an exemplary power control system  600 , in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. The exemplary system  600  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the exemplary system  500  illustrated in  FIG. 5  and discussed previously. 
     The exemplary system  600  may comprise a first electrical device  610  that receives electrical power  611 . The exemplary system  600  may also comprise a second electrical device  615  that receives electrical power  616 . Such received electrical power  611 ,  616  may, for example, comprise electrical power received at a single power input or a plurality of power inputs. For example and without limitation, received electrical power may comprise power received at a plurality of electrical voltage levels. 
     The first and second electrical devices  610 ,  615  may comprise characteristics of any of a large variety of electrical devices. For example and without limitation, the first and second electrical devices  610 ,  615  may comprise signal processing circuitry, microprocessor circuitry, application-specific integrated circuitry, programmable logic array circuitry, a memory circuit, a plurality of coupled sub-circuits, a microcontroller circuit, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular circuit type. 
     The exemplary system  600  may comprise a power supply circuit  640  that provides electrical power  611 ,  616  to the first and second electrical devices  610 ,  615 . The exemplary power supply circuit  640  may comprise a first power output module  642  that outputs electrical power  611  to the first electrical device  610 . The exemplary power supply circuit  640  may also, for example, comprise a second power output module  644  that outputs electrical power  616  to the second electrical device  615 . Note that the second power output from the power supply circuit  640  may, for example, be output from the second power output module  644  or may (as indicated by the dashed line) be output from the first power output module  642 . Accordingly, the second power output  616  from the power supply circuit  640  may be related to the first power output  611  or may be independent. 
     The exemplary power supply circuit  640  may, for example, comprise a control interface module  646  through which electrical devices external to the power supply circuit  640  may communicate with the power supply circuit  640 . For example and without limitation, electrical devices external to the power supply circuit  640  may utilize the control interface module  646  to communicate power control information to the power supply circuit  640 . 
     The power supply circuit  640  may comprise any of a large variety of power supply circuit characteristics. For example and without limitation, the power supply circuit  640  may be an independent power supply integrated circuit. The power supply circuit  640  may, for example, comprise discrete active and passive electrical components. The power supply circuit  640  may, for example, comprise one or more linear or non-linear regulators. The power supply circuit  640  may, for example, comprise one or more switching regulator circuits (e.g., circuitry related to buck, boost, buck-boost or charge pump architectures). The power supply circuit  640  may, for example, comprise analog, digital or hybrid circuitry. The power supply circuit  640  may, for example, comprise one or more independently controllable outputs. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular type of power supply circuit. 
     The exemplary integrated circuit  620  may comprise a first module  622  that monitors at least one performance characteristic of the first electrical device  610 . The first module  622  may also monitor at least one performance characteristic of the second electrical device  615 . The first module  622  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the first module  522  of the exemplary system  500  illustrated in  FIG. 5  and discussed previously. 
     Note that the first module  622  may utilize any of a large variety of known or yet to be developed devices or mechanisms (e.g., performance sensors, detectors, hardware, software, etc.) to monitor performance characteristics. For example and without limitation, the first module  622  may utilize a performance sensor or other circuitry incorporated in the first and/or second electrical devices  610 ,  615 , incorporated in the integrated circuit  620  (e.g., as indicated by item  608 ) or elsewhere in the system  600  (e.g., as indicated by item  609 ). Also for example, the first module  622  may communicate performance data with the first and/or second electrical devices  610 ,  615  and process such performance data to ascertain one or more particular performance characteristics for the first and/or second electrical devices  610 ,  615 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular devices or methods for monitoring various electrical power characteristics. 
     The exemplary integrated circuit  620  may comprise a second module  624  with which the first module  622  may communicate information regarding the at least one monitored performance characteristic. The second module  624  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the exemplary second module  524  illustrated in  FIG. 5  and discussed previously. 
     For example and without limitation, the second module  624  may comprise a power controller module. For example, the second module  624  may process performance characteristic information received from the first module  622  to determine power control information, which may be utilized to control power supply circuitry (e.g., the power supply circuit  640 ). Various non-limiting aspects of such power control information were presented previously. As discussed previously with regard to the second module  524  of  FIG. 5 , the second module  624  may process received performance characteristic information to determine power control information in any of a variety of manners. 
     The second module  624  may, for example, receive information of one or more monitored performance characteristics for a plurality of electrical devices (e.g., the first and second electrical devices  610 ,  615 ). The following discussion will refer to monitored performance characteristics for the first and second electrical devices  610 ,  615 . However, it must be noted that the discussion is readily extensible to scenarios involving any number of electrical devices. In processing the received information to determine power supply control information, the second module  624  may process such received information in any of a large variety of ways. 
     For example and without limitation, the second module  624  may arbitrate between the first electrical device  610  and the second electrical devices  615 . Non-limiting illustrative examples of such arbitration were discussed previously. Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective performance goals or needs of the first electrical device  610  and the second electrical device  615 . Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective priorities of the first electrical device  610  and the second electrical devices  615 . For example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information in accordance with the performance goals or needs of the highest priority electrical device. Also for example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information based on a priority-based or need-based weighted average. In general, such arbitration may comprise arbitrating between performance needs of various electrical devices. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular arbitration scheme. 
     The third module  626  may receive the power control information determined by the second module  624  and communicate the power control information to another module within the integrated circuit  620  or an electrical device external to the integrated circuit  620 . The third module  626  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the third module  526  illustrated in  FIG. 5  and discussed previously. 
     In the exemplary system  600 , the third module  626  communicates the power control information to the power supply circuit  640 , discussed previously. The third module  626  may, for example, communicate the power control information with the power supply circuit  640  through the control interface module  646  of the power supply circuit  640 . 
     In an exemplary scenario, the second module  624  may receive information regarding the at least one monitored power characteristic from the first module  622  and process such information to determine a power adjustment request (or command). The third module  624  may then communicate the determined power adjustment request to the power supply circuit  640  to request that the power supply circuit  640  modify various aspects of supplied electrical power. For example, the third module  626  may communicate a power adjustment request through the control interface module  646  to at least one of the first power output module  642  and the second power output module  644  of the power supply circuit  640 . The power supply circuit  640  may then, for example, respond to the communicated power adjustment request (or command) by adjusting one or more characteristics of electrical power output from the power supply circuit  640 . 
     The exemplary system  600  illustrated in  FIG. 6  and discussed previously is merely exemplary, and was presented to illustrate a non-limiting portion of various aspects of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should by no means be limited by characteristics of the exemplary system  600 . 
       FIG. 7  illustrates an exemplary method  700  for controlling performance, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. The exemplary method  700  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the functionality performed by the exemplary systems  500 ,  600  illustrated in  FIGS. 5 and 6  and discussed previously. The exemplary method may further, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the exemplary methods  300 ,  400  illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 4  and discussed previously. 
     The exemplary method  700  may, at step  720 , comprise monitoring at least one performance characteristic of a first electrical device (for example and without limitation, an electrical device external to the integrated circuit performing the method  700 ). For example and without limitation, step  720  may share various characteristics with the functionality performed by the first module  522  of the exemplary integrated circuit  520  illustrated in  FIG. 5  and discussed previously. 
     The first electrical device may comprise any of a large variety of circuit characteristics. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular electrical device or circuit type. 
     As mentioned previously, monitored performance characteristics of an electrical device may comprise any of a variety of circuit performance characteristics. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by any particular circuit performance characteristics. 
     It should be noted that exemplary step  720  may comprise monitoring one or more performance characteristics for one or more functional aspects of the first electrical device. For example, the first electrical device may perform a plurality of functions, characteristic(s) of which step  720  may comprise monitoring. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular number of monitored performance characteristics or number of functional aspects of an electrical device. 
     Also, step  720  may comprise monitoring at least one performance characteristic of other electrical devices, some of which may be internal or external to the integrated circuit. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by a particular number or location of electrical devices for which step  720  may comprise monitoring at least one performance characteristic. 
     The exemplary method  700  may, at step  730 , comprise determining power control information based, at least in part, on the performance characteristics monitored at step  720 . Step  730  may, for example and without limitation, share various functional characteristics with the second modules  524 ,  624  illustrated in  FIGS. 5-6  and discussed previously. 
     For example, step  730  may comprise processing information of performance characteristics monitored at step  720  to determine power control information, which may be utilized to control power supply circuitry. Step  730  may, for example, comprise processing such performance characteristic information to determine power control information in any of a variety of manners. 
     For example and without limitation, step  730  may comprise comparing information of monitored performance to performance goal information. Step  730  may, for example, comprise determining whether the first external electrical device (and/or other device) is achieving performance goals. Such performance goals may, for example and without limitation, comprise goals related to processing speed, response time, operating temperature, energy consumption, energy-efficiency, error rate, data throughput, etc. 
     Step  730  may, for example, comprise determining whether a performance adjustment is desired. Step  730  may also, for example, comprise determining how much of a performance adjustment is desired. Such determination(s) may, for example, comprise balancing various performance goals, which may be complementary or adversely related. Step  730  may then, for example, comprise correlating performance or a performance change to various power supply characteristic(s). Step  730  may, for example, comprise determining power control request or command signals to communicate with other circuitry, where the request or command signals are designed to provide for control over one or more power supply characteristics. 
     In an exemplary scenario, step  730  may comprise processing information of monitored performance characteristics from the first electrical device (e.g., as monitored at step  720 ) and determining that, while data processing speed is substantially exceeding the minimum goal, energy consumption is in excess of the maximum goal. Step  730  may then, for example, comprise determining that a 2% decrease in power supply voltage level will decrease the energy consumption below the maximum energy consumption goal, while still providing for data processing speed at or above the minimum data processing speed goal. Step  730  may then, for example, comprise determining power control information that, when processed by power supply circuitry, may cause such a 2% decrease in power supply voltage level. 
     In another exemplary scenario, step  730  may comprise processing information of monitored performance characteristics from the first electrical device (e.g., as monitored at step  720 ) and determining that, while the communication error rate is substantially below the maximum error rate goal, the operating temperature is above the maximum temperature goal. Step  730  may then, for example, comprise determining that a 1.5% reduction in power supply voltage level will decrease operating temperature below the maximum temperature goal, while still meeting the error rate goal. Step  730  may then, for example, comprise determining power control information that, when processed by power supply circuitry, may cause such a 1.5% reduction in power supply voltage level. 
     In a further exemplary scenario, step  730  may comprise processing information of monitored performance characteristics from the external electrical device (e.g., as monitored at step  720 ) and determining that energy-efficiency goals are comfortably being met, while data throughput rate goals are not being met due to power supply voltage instability. Step  730  may then, for example, comprise determining that a 20% increase in power supply switching rate may reduce voltage variations below an acceptable maximum level, while still meeting energy-efficiency goals. Step  730  may then, for example, comprise determining power control information that, when processed by power supply circuitry, may cause such a 20% increase in power supply switching rate. 
     Step  730  may comprise processing performance characteristic information of one or more monitored performance characteristics for a plurality of electrical devices (e.g., as monitored at step  720 ). In processing the performance characteristic information to determine power supply control information, step  730  may comprise processing the received information in any of a large variety of ways. 
     For example and without limitation, step  730  may comprise arbitrating between various electrical devices. Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective performance goals or needs of the plurality of electrical devices. Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective priorities of the plurality of electrical devices. For example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information in accordance with the performance goals or needs of the highest priority electrical device. Also for example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information based on a priority-based or need-based weighted average. In general, such arbitration may comprise arbitrating between performance goals or needs of various electrical devices. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular arbitration scheme. 
     The exemplary method  700  may, at step  740 , comprise communicating at least a portion of the power control information (e.g., as determined at step  730 ) with a second electrical device (for example and without limitation, a second electrical device that is external to the first integrated circuit and the first electrical device). Step  740  may, for example and without limitation, share various functional characteristics with the third modules  526 ,  626  illustrated in  FIGS. 5-6  and discussed previously. 
     Such a second electrical device may, for example and without limitation, comprise power managing and/or power supply circuitry. The second electrical device may, for example, provide electrical power to the integrated circuit, first electrical device, or other electrical device(s). Note however, that the second electrical device is not necessarily related to power supply circuitry. 
     Such power control information may, for example, comprise controlling signals that directly control operation of power supply circuitry. Such power control information may, for example, comprise a power supply request or command, which may be interpreted and processed by power supply circuitry that receives such a request or command. Such power control information may, for example, comprise any of a variety of information related to monitored performance of the first electrical device, other electrical devices, etc. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular power control information or by a particular destination for such power control information. 
     Step  740  may comprise performing functionality of varying complexity. For example, in a first exemplary scenario, step  740  may comprise performing a plurality of signal processing functions, each of which may comprise performing a signal processing or communicating activity (e.g., A/D conversion, data manipulation, data packaging, one or two-way data communication, etc.). In a second exemplary scenario, step  740  may comprise merely forwarding information determined at step  730  to the second electrical device. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular degrees of processing and/or communication complexity. 
     In general, step  740  may comprise communicating with a second electrical device (e.g., external to the integrated circuit) regarding the power control information determined at step  730 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular monitored performance characteristic or a particular type of information that may be determined from a monitored performance characteristic. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates an exemplary method  800  for controlling power, in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. The exemplary method  800  may, for example and without limitation, share various characteristics with the exemplary method  700  illustrated in  FIG. 7  and discussed previously. Further for example, the exemplary method  800  may share various characteristics with functionality discussed previously with regard to the exemplary systems  500 ,  600  illustrated in  FIGS. 5-6  and discussed previously. 
     The exemplary method  800  may, at step  820 , comprise monitoring at least one performance characteristic of a first electrical device (for example and without limitation, an electrical device external to the integrated circuit performing the method  800 ). For example and without limitation, step  820  may share various characteristics with step  820  of the exemplary method  700  illustrated in  FIG. 7  and discussed previously. Also for example, step  720  may share various characteristics with the functionality performed by the first modules  522 ,  622  illustrated in  FIGS. 5-6  and discussed previously. 
     The exemplary method  800  may, at step  830 , comprise monitoring at least one performance characteristic of a second electrical device (for example and without limitation, an electrical device external to the integrated circuit performing the method  800 ). For example and without limitation, step  830  may share various characteristics with step  820 , albeit with regard to a second electrical device rather than the first electrical device. 
     The exemplary method  800  may, at step  840 , comprise determining power control information from an analysis of performance characteristic(s) monitored at steps  820  and  830 . For example and without limitation, step  840  may share various characteristics with step  730  of the exemplary method  700  illustrated in  FIG. 7  and discussed previously. Also for example, step  840  may share various characteristics with the functionality discussed previously with regard to the second modules  524 ,  624  of the exemplary systems  500 ,  600  illustrated in  FIGS. 5-6  and discussed previously. 
     Such power control information may, for example, comprise controlling signals that directly control operation of power supply circuitry. Such power control information may, for example, comprise a power supply request or command, which may be interpreted and processed by power supply circuitry that receives such a request or command. Such power control information may, for example, comprise any of a variety of information types related to performance characteristics monitored at steps  820  and  830 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of particular power control information. 
     Step  840  may comprise determining power control information by analyzing the performance characteristics monitored at steps  820  and  830  in any of a variety of ways. For example and without limitation, step  840  may comprise arbitrating between various electrical devices (e.g., the first and second electrical devices). Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective performance goals or needs of the plurality of electrical devices. Such arbitration may, for example, comprise considering respective priorities of the electrical devices. For example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information in accordance with the performance goals or needs of the highest priority electrical device. Also for example, such arbitration may comprise determining power control information based on a priority-based or need-based weighted average. 
     In an exemplary scenario, step  840  may comprise processing information regarding performance characteristics of a first electrical device (e.g., as monitored at step  820 ) and information regarding performance characteristics of a second electrical device (e.g., as monitored at step  830 ). Step  840  may, in the exemplary scenario, comprise determining that the performance goals or needs of the first electrical device outweigh the performance goals or needs of the second electrical device, and determining power supply control information based on the performance goals or needs of the first electrical device and the information regarding performance characteristics of the first electrical device. 
     In another exemplary scenario, step  840  may comprise processing information regarding performance characteristics of a first electrical device (e.g., as monitored at step  820 ) and information regarding performance characteristics of a second electrical device (e.g., as monitored at step  830 ). Step  840  may, in the exemplary scenario, comprise determining that the performance goals or needs of the first electrical device are equal to the performance goals or needs of the second electrical device, and determining power supply control information based equally on the performance goals or needs of the first electrical device and associated information regarding performance characteristics of the first electrical device, and with the performance goals or needs of the second electrical device and associated information regarding performance characteristics of the second electrical device. 
     In still another exemplary scenario, step  840  may comprise processing information regarding performance characteristics of a first electrical device (e.g., as monitored at step  820 ) and information regarding performance characteristics of a second electrical device (e.g., as monitored at step  830 ). Step  840  may, in the exemplary scenario, comprise determining that the performance goals or needs of the first electrical device are prioritized higher than the performance goals or needs of the second electrical device, and determining power supply control information based on a priority-based weighted average of the performance goals or needs of the first electrical device and associated information regarding performance characteristics of the first electrical device, and the performance goals or needs of the second electrical device and associated information regarding performance characteristics of the second electrical device. 
     In general, exemplary step  840  may comprise determining power control information from an analysis of performance characteristics monitored at steps  820  and  830 . Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of a particular analysis or determination of power control information. 
     The exemplary method  800  may, at step  850 , comprise communicating the power control information (e.g., as determined at step  840 ) to power supply circuitry that provides the electrical power to the first and second electrical devices. For example and without limitation, step  850  may share various characteristics with step  740  of the exemplary method  700  illustrated in  FIG. 7  and discussed previously. Also for example, step  850  may share various characteristics with functionality performed by the third modules  526 ,  626  of the exemplary systems  500 ,  600  illustrated in  FIGS. 5-6  and discussed previously. 
     The exemplary method  800  discussed above presents an exemplary illustration comprising monitoring characteristics of received electrical power at first and second electrical devices and determining power control information based, at least in part, on such monitored performance characteristics. It should be noted that various aspects of the exemplary illustration are readily extensible to systems comprising any number of electrical devices. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited to a particular number of electrical devices for which performance characteristics of received electrical power may be monitored and utilized to determine power control information. 
     The previous discussion has presented exemplary illustrations of various aspects of the present invention. At various times, the previous discussion has referred to circuits, electrical devices, modules and integrated circuits. Such terms may often be interchangeable. It should be noted that various aspects of the present invention may be performed by hardware, a processor executing software instructions, or a combination thereof. Further, various aspects of the present invention may be performed by local modules or sub-systems or by a distributed network of modules or sub-systems. For example, various aspects of the present invention may be performed by modules integrated into a single integrated circuit or by a set of integrated circuits. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limited by characteristics of any particular implementation. 
     In summary, various aspects of the present invention provide a system and method for controlling electrical power and/or performance based on monitored performance characteristics. While the invention has been described with reference to certain aspects and embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.