A power-saving mode has become crucial in response to the increasing functionality and integration of System-on-Chips (SoCs). For instance, network standby mode selectively keeps essential interfaces, primarily network functions, active while placing other functions on standby to conserve power. On the other hand, sleep mode maintains only specific subsystems awake, allowing the system to enter a deeper sleep state. Our power-saving system is designed to address these requirements.
A power-saving subsystem comprises an Arm microcomputer, essential peripheral IP, and RAM. It operates independently from the main system and enables the following functions.
System standby processing
- Transition and return from power-saving mode with simple instructions from the main system to the subsystem
- Achieve deep-sleep mode by keeping only the subsystem awake
- Integrate power-up and shut-down sequences
Socionext offers the following support services that make it easy to introduce the subsystem.
- Consideration of system power-saving sequences between the main system and the subsystems
- Software design for the main system sleep and wake scenarios
- Design implementation for controlling the subsystem power supply
Network Standby Response
Network standby response is a function in which the subsystem carries out packet processing on behalf of the main system when it is in a standby state. This function also supports the following functions:
- The main system "wake" assistance when a packet is received
- An acceleration function that expedites packet processing when operating in a normal state
