JP2008217421A - Electronic apparatus, electric power source control program for electronic apparatus, and electric power source control method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electronic apparatus, an electric power source control program for the electronic apparatus, and an electric power source control method therefor, capable of using a plurality of modules built in at least with a memory, and capable of reducing an electric power consumption when storing data simultaneously, to allow selective use of the modules. <P>SOLUTION: The modules 101 to 103 of different types, for example, are used in a processor module group 104, a capacity and the electric power consumption of each memory are stored in a back-up control table 124. A minimum electric power consumption module constitution selecting mechanism part 116 selects the module in consideration of the memory capacity and electric power saving required for storing the data, when moved to the back-up. Total volume of the storage data is further reduced when the data transferred to the corresponding module is limited to compressible one. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to various electronic devices, a power control program for the electronic device, and a power control method, and more particularly to an electronic device having a plurality of modules including a memory for storing data, a power control program for the electronic device, and a power control method. .

  With the advancement of various devices, a plurality of modules incorporating electronic components such as a memory and a CPU (Central Processing Unit) are increasingly used in one apparatus. Such electronic devices are often provided with a backup function for storing data all at once in order to retain necessary data for a relatively long time with reduced power consumption as in the suspend mode. At the time of backing up the electronic device, power supply to some devices such as a liquid crystal display is stopped, but power is supplied to a module composed of a plurality of resources holding data in the same way as during normal operation. There is a need. This is because the memory mounted on many of these devices is volatile, and the stored data is lost when the supply of power is cut off.

  FIG. 10 shows a main part of an electronic apparatus incorporating such a plurality of modules. The electronic apparatus 400 includes a processor module group 405 to be backed up consisting of first to fourth modules 401 to 404. Here, the first module 401 is configured as a multiprocessor module including the first CPU 406, the second CPU 407, and the first memory 408. The second module 402 includes a third CPU 409 and a second memory 410. The third module 403 includes only the third memory 411. The fourth module 404 includes a fourth CPU 412 and a fourth memory 413.

  The electronic apparatus 400 has a backup transition detection that detects the timing of transition to the backup of the first memory 406, the second memory 407, the third memory 411, and the fourth memory 413 existing in the processor module group 405. A part 421 is provided. The electronic device 400 further includes a diagnosis mechanism unit 422 for diagnosing the state of the system including the first to fourth memories 406, 407, 411, and 413, and the first to fourth components constituting the processor module group 405. A power management mechanism 423 for the modules 401 to 404 is provided.

  When the backup transition detection unit 421 detects a shift to backup, the diagnosis mechanism unit 422 stores only data that does not need to be held in the first to fourth modules 401 to 404 with respect to the power management mechanism unit 423. If there is something that is, it is instructed to stop the power supply. When this instruction is given, it is assumed that data to be held exists in the first to third modules 401 to 403, respectively, and data to be held only in the fourth module 404 does not exist. Then, the power management mechanism unit 423 stops only power supply to the fourth module 404 when shifting to backup. Since it is necessary to retain the data stored in the first to third modules 401 to 403, the power supply is continued.

  However, in such an electronic device, even if there is a small amount of data to be held in the first to third modules 401 to 403 as a whole, power supply to these modules is continued.

  Therefore, it has been proposed that an electronic device incorporating a plurality of modules having the same configuration grasps the entire data stored in these modules and collects the data in some modules as necessary at the time of backup. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1). According to this proposal, the data in each module is compressed to reduce their capacity. Then, the total capacity required to store the compressed data is obtained, and the number of modules required is calculated by dividing by the memory capacity per one of these modules.

For example, it is assumed that the first to fourth modules 401 to 404 as shown in FIG. 10 are each constituted by a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory of 8 MB (mechanic bytes). According to this proposal, for example, if the compressed data of the first to fourth modules 401 to 404 is 7 MB, all data can be stored in the first module 401. Therefore, it is possible to shift to a suspend mode as a mode for reducing power consumption in a state where the power sources of the second to fourth modules 402 to 404 are shut off. If the compressed data of the first to fourth modules 401 to 404 is 9 MB, all data can be stored in two modules such as the first module 401 and the second module 402. . Therefore, in this case, it becomes possible to shift to the suspend mode with the power supply of the two modules cut off.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-282587 (paragraphs 0017 to 0019, FIG. 2)

  However, this proposal uses multiple identical modules. Electronic devices sometimes use a mixture of various modules. For example, a user who purchased a new electronic device does not always purchase multiple modules with the same memory capacity and the same characteristics at the same time. In some cases, a temporary memory capacity of the electronic device is secured. In such a case, characteristics such as memory capacity and power consumption may be greatly different between a newly purchased module and a module that has been used. Of course, when a plurality of modules are incorporated in an electronic device, they do not necessarily have the same specifications.

  In such a case, even if the conventional technique is applied, the proposed simple division formula cannot correctly determine the number of modules used at the time of backup. In addition, even if the number of modules used at the time of backup is known, if a module manufactured with the old technology is selected for backup, it may consume more power than a module manufactured with the new technology. Yes, power saving cannot be realized effectively.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an electronic device and a power supply for the electronic device that can selectively use these modules while reducing the power consumption when simultaneously storing data while using a plurality of modules having at least a built-in memory. A control program and a power supply control method are provided.

  In the first aspect of the present invention, (b) a plurality of modules incorporating at least a memory for storing data, (b) a table describing specifications relating to data storage for each of the plurality of modules, and (c) A storage continuation start timing detecting means for detecting a storage continuation start timing as a timing for continually storing data that needs to be saved among data stored in a plurality of modules; When the timing detecting means detects the above-mentioned storage continuation start timing, the data stored in each of the plurality of modules described above with reference to the above-described table is stored as a part of the modules in a form with low power consumption. A means for determining whether or not to collect in a specific module; A data transfer means for transferring all the data stored in the remaining modules of the plurality of modules to the specific module when another means determines that the specific module can be collected in a form of low power consumption; The electronic apparatus includes power supply control means for stopping the supply of power for each module for which the data transfer means has finished transferring data to the specific module.

  In other words, in the present invention, a table is prepared that describes the specifications related to data storage for a plurality of modules including at least a memory for storing data. Therefore, when the storage continuation start timing detection unit detects the storage continuation start timing, the data stored in each of the plurality of modules described above with reference to the table is stored in a form with less power consumption. It is possible to determine whether or not the modules can be assembled into a specific module. When the collectability determination unit determines that the specific module can be collected in a form of low power consumption, all the data stored in the remaining modules of the plurality of modules is transferred to the specific module. Then, by stopping the power supply for each module that has finished transferring data to the specific module, it is possible to reduce power consumption when storing data all at once.

  In the invention of claim 2, (a) a plurality of modules having at least built-in memories for storing data, and (b) saving of data that needs to be saved among the data stored in the plurality of modules. A storage continuation start timing detection means for detecting a storage continuation start timing as a timing to be performed simultaneously, and (c) when the storage continuation start timing detection means detects the storage continuation start timing, each of the plurality of modules described above Data selecting means for selecting data that needs to be saved among the data stored in the data and other data according to identification information associated with each data, and (d) data that needs to be saved by the data selecting means, Discriminated data can be collected in a specific module as a part of the plurality of modules. (E) data that needs to be stored stored in the remaining modules of the plurality of modules when the determination is made that the collection possibility determination means can be collected in the specific module; The electronic apparatus includes data transfer means for transferring all data to the specified module, and (f) power supply control means for stopping supply of power for each module for which the data transfer means has finished transferring to the specific module. Let

  That is, in the present invention, the data selection means selects data that needs to be saved and data other than the data stored in each of the plurality of modules based on identification information associated with each data. . The collectability determination unit determines whether the data determined to be stored by the data selection unit can be collected in a specific module as a part of the plurality of modules. The power supply control means stops the power supply for each module for which the data transfer means has finished the transfer to the specific module. Therefore, by collecting only the data that needs to be stored in the specific module, the number of the specific modules can be effectively reduced, and the power consumption can be reduced during the simultaneous storage of the data.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the electronic device is provided with a table in which specifications relating to data storage are provided for each of the plurality of modules described above. Even when the continuation start timing is detected, means for determining whether the data stored in each of the plurality of modules described above can be collected in the specific module in a form with low power consumption by referring to the table described above. Good. Thereby, the same effect as that of claim 1 can be obtained, and the power consumption can be further reduced.

  Further, in the electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, the above-described collection possibility determination unit compresses the data stored in each of the plurality of modules that needs to be stored as described above. It may be a means for determining whether or not the collection is possible based on these data amounts later. If the data to be stored is reduced by the compression, the power consumption can be further reduced. Furthermore, when compressing the data that needs to be stored as described above, position information adding means for adding position information indicating the location of the data may be further provided. This is useful when returning data to its original location.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a computer of an electronic device comprising a plurality of modules having at least a memory for storing data and a table describing specifications relating to data storage for each of the plurality of modules is provided in a power source of the electronic device. As a control program, (a) a storage continuation start timing detection process for detecting a storage continuation start timing as a timing for continually storing data that needs to be saved among the data stored in the plurality of modules described above. (B) When the storage continuation start timing is detected in this storage continuation start timing detection process, the data stored in each of the plurality of modules described above with reference to the table is stored in a form with less power consumption. Can be assembled into a specific module as a part of (C) When it is determined that the collection can be performed on the specific module in a form with low power consumption by the collection possibility determination process, the data stored in the remaining modules of the plurality of modules is A data transfer process for transferring all data to the specified module, and (d) a power supply control process for stopping the power supply for each module for which the data transfer to the specific module is completed in the data transfer process. It is characterized by that.

  That is, in the present invention, the technical idea similar to that of the first aspect of the invention is realized as a power supply control program for an electronic device.

  In the invention according to claim 8, the computer of the electronic device having a plurality of modules having at least a memory for storing data is provided as a power control program for the electronic device. A storage continuation start timing detection process for detecting a storage continuation start timing as a timing for simultaneously storing data that needs to be stored, and (b) the storage continuation start timing described above in this storage continuation start timing detection process When data is detected, a data selection process for selecting data that needs to be saved among the data stored in each of the plurality of modules and other data based on identification information associated with each data; ) The data identified as the data that needs to be saved in this data selection process is the plurality of modules described above. A collectability determination process for determining whether or not the modules can be assembled into a specific module as a part of the module, and A data transfer process for transferring all of the data stored in the remaining modules to be stored to the specific module, and (e) for each module for which the transfer to the specific module has been completed in the data transfer process. A power supply control process for stopping power supply is executed.

  That is, in the present invention, the technical idea similar to that of the second aspect of the invention is realized as a power supply control program for an electronic device.

  In the invention according to claim 9, (a) Continuation of preservation as a timing for continuing the preservation of data that needs to be preserved simultaneously among data stored in a plurality of modules having at least a memory for storing data. The storage continuation start timing detection step for detecting the start timing, and (b) when the storage continuation start timing is detected in the storage continuation start timing detection step, specifications regarding data storage are described for each of the plurality of modules described above. A collectability determination step for determining whether the data stored in each of the plurality of modules described above with reference to the table can be collected in a specific module as a part of the modules in a form with low power consumption; ) In the form of low power consumption as described above in this gathering possibility determination step A data transfer step for transferring all the data stored in the remaining modules of the plurality of modules to the specific module when it is determined that the data can be collected in the specific module; and (d) the specific module described in the data transfer step. And a power supply control step of stopping the supply of power for each module for which data transfer to the electronic device is terminated.

  That is, in the present invention, the technical idea similar to that of the invention described in claim 1 is realized as a power supply control method for electronic equipment.

  In the invention according to claim 10, (a) continuation of storage is started as a timing for simultaneously storing data that needs to be saved among data stored in a plurality of modules having at least a memory for storing data. A storage continuation start timing detection step for detecting timing, and (b) when the storage continuation start timing is detected in the storage continuation start timing detection step, the data is stored in the data stored in each of the plurality of modules. (C) a data selection step for selecting data that requires data and other data based on the identification information associated with each data; and (c) data determined as data that needs to be stored in the data selection step is a plurality of data Determine whether you can gather in a specific module as part of the module And (d) the above-described identification of the data that needs to be stored and that is stored in the remaining modules of the plurality of modules when it is determined that the aggregation determination unit can collect the specific module. A data transfer step for transferring all data to the module, and (e) a power supply control step for stopping the supply of power for each module for which the transfer to the specific module has been completed in the data transfer step. To provide.

  That is, according to the present invention, the technical idea similar to that of the second aspect of the invention is realized as a power supply control method for an electronic device.

  As described above, according to the first, seventh, and ninth aspects of the present invention, a table that describes specifications related to data storage is prepared for a plurality of modules that include at least a memory for storing data. Therefore, various approaches can be taken to reduce power consumption using the contents of this table. Further, depending on the contents of the specification, it can be used not only for reducing power consumption but also for various other purposes such as efficient data processing.

  Further, according to the inventions of claim 2, claim 8, and claim 10, among the data stored in each of the plurality of modules, data that needs to be saved and other data are associated for each data. Data sorting means for sorting based on the attached identification information is provided. Therefore, this identification information can be used for selecting data not only when data is stored but also when priority is used for data processing.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to examples.

  FIG. 1 shows a main part of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention. The electronic device 100 is an extended storage device in a large computer as an example, but may be a small device such as a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) and provided with a backup storage device inside. In the present embodiment, backup refers to a data storage mode that can save power for a relatively long time in order to save power.

  The electronic device 100 includes a processor module group 104 to be backed up consisting of first to third modules 101 to 103. Here, the first module 101 is configured as a multiprocessor module including the first CPU 105, the second CPU 106, and the first memory 107. The second module 102 includes a third CPU 108 and a second memory 109. The third module 103 includes only the third memory 111.

  The electronic device 100 includes a backup transition detection unit 113 that detects the timing of transition to backup of the first memory 107, the second memory 109, and the third memory 111 that exist in the processor module group 104. Yes. For example, when the user presses a switch (not shown) for shifting the electronic device 100 to the suspend mode, the timing for shifting to the backup is detected.

  The electronic device 100 further includes a diagnosis mechanism unit 114 that diagnoses the state of the system including the first to third memories 107, 109, and 111, and memory data that compresses data in these memories 107, 109, and 111 The compression mechanism unit 115, the minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism unit 116 for setting the module configuration with the minimum power consumption at the time of backup, and the data stored in these memories 107, 109, and 111 as necessary. A data transfer mechanism 117 and a power management mechanism 118 for transferring a part are provided.

  The diagnosis mechanism unit 114 includes a CPU 121 that performs backup control for the processor module group 104 of the electronic device 100 and a control program storage unit 122 that includes a storage medium such as a magnetic disk that stores a control program for performing backup control. Yes. The CPU 121 of the diagnosis mechanism unit 114 may also be used for overall control of the electronic device 100. Further, at least a part of devices used for data backup, such as the minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism unit 116, may be realized by software by execution of a control program by the CPU 121.

  The minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism unit 116 is provided with a backup management table 124 that stores information used when performing power control during backup of the processor module group 104. The minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism unit 116 includes a power consumption discrimination circuit (not shown) that discriminates in advance the power consumption of the first to third modules 101 to 103 during normal operation of the electronic device 100, and shifts to the backup mode. Sometimes, the module configuration that minimizes power consumption is selected. Instead of providing the power consumption determination circuit, the power consumption of the first to third modules 101 to 103 may be set in advance by the above-described operator or maintenance manager.

  FIG. 2 shows the main part of the backup management table of this embodiment. The backup management table 124 includes the power consumption of each of the first to third modules 101 to 103, the first memory 107 in the first module 101, the second memory 109 in the second module 102, The memory capacity of each of the third memories 111 in the third module 103 is indicated. In this embodiment, these are classified into three levels of “large”, “medium”, and “small” and stored as table values. However, even if specific values are stored. Good.

  The data transfer mechanism unit 117 in FIG. 1 is a circuit part that instructs the minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism unit 116 to transfer data in the processor module group 104. The minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism unit 116 selects a data transfer mode in the first to third memories 107, 109, and 111 with reference to the backup management table 124 shown in FIG. . This is to reduce power consumption by collecting all data in a part of the first to third memories 107, 109, and 111 and performing backup. In this way, when data is temporarily collected in a part of the first to third memories 107, 109, and 111 at the time of backup, these are returned to the original location when the backup is completed. For this reason, each piece of data to be transferred is given position information indicating where it is stored in the first to third memories 107, 109, and 111.

  The memory data compression mechanism 115 performs a process of compressing data when collecting all data in a part of the first to third memories 107, 109, and 111 and performing backup. The compression process may be performed as necessary. Further, when area validity information indicating whether or not each data is an area for which compression is effective is attached, the compression may be performed only for the area for which compression is effective.

  In this embodiment, the area where compression is not effective means both an area where data exists but is not subject to backup, and an area where data originally does not exist and is not subject to backup. is there. In the former case, if the first to third memories 107, 109, and 111 are volatile, data that is not to be backed up will be lost when the power supply of the module is shut off as will be described later. become. Therefore, by attaching an index that does not enable compression for data that is not worth saving, it is possible to perform processing for automatically deleting these at the time of backup.

  The power management mechanism unit 118 performs power control of each of the first to third modules 101 to 103. For example, if all the data in the first to third modules 101 to 103 are temporarily stored together for backup in the first memory 107 as a result of the compression process, the power management mechanism 118 will By turning off the power supply to the second and third modules 102 and 103, overall power consumption can be reduced.

  FIG. 3 shows the state of control up to the start of backup of the electronic apparatus of this embodiment. The description will be made with reference to FIGS.

  The diagnosis mechanism unit 114 waits for a detection signal indicating that the backup shift detection unit 113 has shifted to the backup to be input (step S201). When a detection signal indicating that the state has shifted to backup is input (Y), the memory data compression mechanism unit 115 is instructed and the first to third memories 107 and 109 from the first to third modules 101 to 103 are instructed. , 111 are sequentially read out, and those that are effective in compression are compressed, and the position information indicating the address at which they are present is added (step S202). For example, position information is stored in each header area of the compressed data.

FIG. 4 shows a part of the storage state of the data storage part in the memory in the predetermined module before the data is compressed. In the memory area 130, a header area 132 is provided at the head position for each of the data storage areas 131 ₁ , 131 ₂ ,..., And subsequently, data 133 is stored. Each of the data storage areas 131 ₁ , 131 ₂ ,... May be configured as an area having a fixed number of bytes, or may be configured as an area having an arbitrary number of bytes.

In the header area 132, position information 134 ₁ , 134 ₂ ,... Indicating the position in the memory area 131 and area valid information 135 ₁ , 135 ₂ ,. ing. In the position information 134 ₁ , 134 ₂ ,..., Not only the address information in the corresponding memory area 131 but also stored in the memory constituting any of the first to third modules 101 to 103 shown in FIG. May be included.

FIG. 5 shows a part of the storage state of the data storage part in the memory in the predetermined module after the data compression. In the memory area 131, compressed data 137 ₁ , 137 ₃ ,... For the data storage areas 131 ₁ , 131 ₃ ,... In which the area valid information 135 of the header area 132 of FIG. Position information 134 ₁ , 134 ₃ ,... Is stored in a form arranged at the head of each. The position information 134 ₁ , 134 ₃ ,... Is information for causing the data to be re-stored at the original position shown in FIG. 4 when the compressed data 137 ₁ , 137 ₃ ,. It is.

When the data compression processing in the first to third modules 101 to 103 is completed in this way, the minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism unit 116 stores the compressed first to third memories 107, 109, and 111. A total value of the data amounts D ₁ , D ₂ and D ₃ is calculated (step S203). In this calculation, the amount of data indicating position information is also added. Next, the memory capacities (sizes) C ₁ , C ₂ , and C ₃ of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are read from the backup management table 124 shown in FIG. 2 (step S204). In the example shown in FIG. 1, one memory 107, 109, and 111 is arranged in each of the modules 101 to 103. However, if a plurality of memories are physically arranged in a certain module, the memory capacity Is the total memory capacity of the memories in the same module.

The minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism unit 116 is configured such that the memory capacity of the maximum capacity module indicated in the backup management table 124 is the data amount D ₁ , D _{2 of the first} to third memories 107, 109, 111 after compression. And whether it is larger than the total value of D ₃ (step S205). When it is determined that it is large (Y), all the data in the compressed first to third memories 107, 109, and 111 can be stored in the memory of the module having the maximum capacity. Therefore, in this case, all the data of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are collected in the memory of the module having the maximum capacity (step S206). Specifically, looking at the backup management table 124, the memory capacity C3 of the _third module 103 is the maximum. Therefore, the data transfer mechanism unit 117 transfers the compressed data of the first and second memories 107 and 109 and their position information to the third memory 111.

  When all the data of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are collected in one module in this way, the power management mechanism unit 118 temporarily shuts off the power of unnecessary modules (step S207). In the case of the present embodiment, all data of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are collected in the third memory 111. As a result, there is no data to be backed up in the first and second modules 101 and 102. Therefore, the first and second modules 101 and 102 become unnecessary modules, and the power supply to these is cut off. Thereafter, data backup is executed (step S208).

Next, the memory capacity of the module having the maximum capacity shown in the backup management table 124 is equal to or less than the total value of the data amounts D ₁ , D ₂ and D ₃ of the first to third memories 107, 109 and 111 after compression. A case where it is determined that there is one will be described. In this case (step S205: N), the minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism unit 116 refers to the backup management table 124, and the total value of the memory capacity of the module having the largest memory capacity and the next largest module is compressed. It is determined whether or not the data amount D ₁ , D _2, and D ₃ of the subsequent first to third memories 107, 109, and 111 is larger than the total value (step S209).

When it is determined that it is large (Y), all the data in the compressed first to third memories 107, 109, and 111 can be stored in the memory having the largest capacity and the next largest capacity. Therefore, in this case, all the data of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are collected in the memories of these two modules (step S210). Specifically, looking at the backup management table 124, the memory capacity C ₃ of the third module 103 is the largest, followed by the memory capacity C ₂ of the second module 102. Therefore, the data transfer mechanism unit 117 transfers the compressed data of the first memory 107 and the position information thereof to the second and third memories 109 and 111.

  Thereafter, the process of step S207 is performed. In the case of this embodiment, all data of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are collected in the second and third memories 109 and 111. As a result, there is no data to be backed up in the first module 101. Therefore, the first module 101 becomes an unnecessary module, and power supply to this is cut off. Thereafter, data backup is executed (step S208).

Incidentally, the sum of the memory capacities of the module having the largest memory capacity and the next largest module is the sum of the data amounts D ₁ , D ₂ and D ₃ of the first to third memories 107, 109 and 111 after compression. It may be determined that the value is equal to or less than the value (step S209: N). In this example including the first to third modules 101 to 103, data in at least one module cannot be completely transferred to other modules. Therefore, in this case, the data transfer mechanism unit 117 does not transfer the data, and proceeds to step S208 to start the backup process.

  Of course, when the number of modules constituting the processor module group 104 shown in FIG. 1 is four, for example, it is possible to determine whether or not all the data of the remaining one module can be transferred to three modules. . Thus, depending on the number of modules constituting the processor module group 104, the details of the processing up to the start of the backup shown in FIG. 3 can be made different.

  FIG. 6 shows the state of data restoration processing at the end of backup. This will be described with reference to FIG. When the backup is completed, the backup transition detection unit 113 notifies the diagnosis mechanism unit 114 of the end of the backup. Based on this, the diagnosis mechanism unit 114 causes the power management mechanism unit 118 to configure all the modules 101 to 101 constituting the processor module group 104. An inquiry is made as to whether or not a part of 103 is in a power-off state (step S221). This is because a part of the first to third modules 101 to 103 may stop the power supply as a result of discharging all data.

  If some of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are powered off (Y), they are also turned on (step S222). Then, the data transfer mechanism unit 117 returns the compressed data collected in some modules to the original arrangement of the first to third modules 101 to 103 (step S223). Thereafter, the memory data compression mechanism unit 115 decrypts the data of the first to third modules 101 to 103 (step S224). When processing is performed such that decoding is completed with one module and then started with the next module, the power of the waiting module is stopped until data transfer or decoding is performed. Is possible.

  When the decoding is completed for each of the modules 101 to 103, the respective data are arranged at the original positions based on the position information (step S225), and the process is ended. If all the data can be decrypted in terms of capacity within the module in which the compressed data is gathered, the decryption processing is performed by one or a plurality of these modules, and then the remaining modules are powered. The decrypted data may be transferred to these modules.

  If all the power sources of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are in an operating state in step S221 (N), data for backup is not transferred between the modules. In this case, the process proceeds to step S224, where data is decoded in each module, and data is arranged in accordance with the position information (step S225).

  In the embodiment described above, area valid information indicating whether or not compression is valid is added to the data area stored in the module, so that unnecessary data can be organized every time backup is executed. There is an advantage that you can.

  The present invention is characterized in that the power consumption during backup is reduced overall by changing the configuration of the processor module group 104 shown in FIG. For this reason, various deformation | transformation are possible for this invention. Therefore, representative ones will be shown.

  <First Modification of Invention>

  FIG. 7 shows a state of control up to the start of backup of the electronic device in the first modification of the present invention. The description will be made with reference to FIGS. The same parts as those in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same step numbers, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. When the transition to the backup mode is detected, the data of the first to third memories 107, 109, and 111 in the first to third modules 101 to 103 are compressed and the position information is added (step S201, step The process up to S202) is the same as the embodiment.

In the next step S301, the minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism unit 116 calculates the compressed data amounts D ₁ , D ₂ and D ₃ in the first to third modules 101 to 103 (step S301). Then, the remaining memory capacities B ₁ , B ₂ and B ₃ in these modules 101 to 103 are calculated (step S302). Then, it is determined whether the maximum remaining capacity is larger than the sum of data amounts of modules other than the module to which the maximum capacity belongs (step S303). If so (Y), the data of the other modules are transferred to the module having the maximum remaining capacity (step S304). Thereafter, the power supply of unnecessary modules is stopped (step S207), and data backup is performed (step S208).

  Next, a case where it is determined that the maximum remaining capacity in the first to third modules 101 to 103 is equal to or less than the sum of data amounts of modules other than the module to which the module belongs is described. In this case (step S303: N), it is determined whether the sum of the maximum remaining capacity and the next largest remaining capacity in the first to third modules 101 to 103 is larger than the data amount of the other modules ( Step S305). If so (Y), the data of modules other than these are transferred to the module having the largest remaining capacity and the next largest remaining capacity (step S306). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S207.

  If it is determined in step S305 that the sum of the maximum remaining capacity and the next largest remaining capacity in the first to third modules 101 to 103 is equal to or less than the data amount of other modules (N), backup Therefore, data transfer between the modules 101 to 103 is not performed. In this state, data backup is performed (step S208).

  As described above, in the first modification, it is determined whether data of other modules can be collected in the module having the most free space. If this is possible, such data transfer is performed. Therefore, when there is no large difference in the data capacity that can be stored in each of the modules 101 to 103, the data is transferred to the module having a large free capacity, and the power of other modules can be saved.

  <Second Modification of Invention>

  FIG. 8 shows a selection process for selecting a module having the most effective power saving among a plurality of modules as a second modification of the present invention. This will be described with reference to FIGS. In FIG. 8, the same steps as those in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same step numbers.

  In the first modification, the minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism 116 shown in FIG. 1 determines whether or not the compressed data can be collected in a part of the first to third modules 101 to 103. (Step S321). If the number of modules constituting the processor module group 104 shown in FIG. 1 cannot be reduced and backup processing cannot be performed (N), data backup is performed without performing backup data transfer processing. (Step S208).

  On the other hand, when the number of modules constituting the processor module group 104 is reduced and backup is possible (step S321: Y), all combinations of such modules are calculated (step S322). If a plurality of combinations are obtained as the calculation result (step S323: Y), the power consumption of the first to third modules 101 to 103 in the backup management table 124 is referred to for each module combination. The total power consumption of the required processor module group 104 is calculated (step S324). The premise of this calculation is that the power supply to the modules removed from the combination is stopped.

In this way, the combination of modules that provides the minimum total power consumption for the entire processor module group 104 is determined (step S325). Then, the data transfer is executed so that the data of the other modules are collected in the module selected to collect the data (step S326).
If there is a single combination of modules in step S323 (N), the data transfer in step S326 is executed for that combination.

  As described above, when data disappears from some of the first to third modules 101 to 103, the supply of power to the modules is stopped as described in the embodiment (step S207). Then, backup is executed (step S208).

  <Third Modification of the Invention>

  FIG. 9 shows the flow of processing up to the start of backup in the third modification of the present invention. This will be described with reference to FIGS. In FIG. 9, the same step numbers are assigned to the same portions as those in FIG.

In the third modified example, the diagnosis mechanism unit 114 is on standby for a detection signal indicating that the backup shift detection unit 113 has shifted to backup (step S201). When a detection signal indicating that the state has shifted to backup is input (Y), the minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism unit 116 stores data in the first to third memories 107, 109, and 111 in a state where compression is not performed. The total value of the quantities d ₁ , d ₂ and d ₃ is calculated (step S341). Next, the memory capacities (sizes) C ₁ , C ₂ , and C ₃ of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are read from the backup management table 124 shown in FIG. 2 (step S204). In the example shown in FIG. 1, one memory 107, 109, and 111 is arranged in each of the modules 101 to 103. However, if a plurality of memories are physically arranged in a certain module, the memory capacity Is the total memory capacity of the memories in the same module.

The minimum power consumption module configuration selecting mechanism unit 116 has a data capacity d _{1 in} which the memory capacity of the module having the maximum capacity shown in the backup management table 124 is not compressed in the first to third memories 107, 109, and 111. It is determined whether it is larger than the total value of d ₂ and d ₃ (step S342). If it is determined that it is large (Y), all the data in the first to third memories 107, 109, and 111 can be stored in the memory of the module having the maximum capacity. Therefore, in this case, all the data of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are collected in the memory of the module having the maximum capacity (step S206). Specifically, looking at the backup management table 124, the memory capacity C3 of the _third module 103 is the maximum. Therefore, the data transfer mechanism unit 117 transfers the uncompressed data of the first and second memories 107 and 109 and the position information thereof to the third memory 111.

  When all the data of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are collected in one module in this way, the power management mechanism unit 118 temporarily shuts off the power of unnecessary modules (step S207). In this example, all data of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are collected in the third memory 111. As a result, there is no data to be backed up in the first and second modules 101 and 102. Therefore, the first and second modules 101 and 102 become unnecessary modules, and the power supply to these is cut off. Thereafter, data backup is executed (step S208).

Next, the memory capacity of the module having the maximum capacity shown in the backup management table 124 is the total value of the data amounts d ₁ , d ₂ and d ₃ of the _first to third memories 107, 109 and 111 that are not compressed. A case where it is determined that the following will be described. In this case (step S342: N), the minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism unit 116 refers to the backup management table 124, and the total value of the memory capacity of the module having the largest memory capacity and the next largest module is compressed. It is determined whether it is larger than the total value of the data amounts d ₁ , d _2, and d ₃ of the _first to third memories 107, 109, and 111 that are not performed (step S343).

When it is determined that it is large (Y), all the data in the compressed first to third memories 107, 109, and 111 can be stored in the memory having the largest capacity and the next largest capacity. Therefore, in this case, all the data of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are collected in the memories of these two modules (step S210). Specifically, looking at the backup management table 124, the memory capacity C ₃ of the third module 103 is the largest, followed by the memory capacity C ₂ of the second module 102. Therefore, the data transfer mechanism unit 117 transfers the compressed data of the first memory 107 and the position information thereof to the second and third memories 109 and 111.

  Thereafter, the process of step S207 is performed. In the case of this modification, all data of the first to third modules 101 to 103 are collected in the second and third memories 109 and 111. As a result, there is no data to be backed up in the first module 101. Therefore, the first module 101 becomes an unnecessary module, and power supply to this is cut off. Thereafter, data backup is executed (step S208).

Incidentally, the total value of the memory capacities of the module having the largest memory capacity and the next largest module is the data amount d ₁ , d ₂ and d _{3 of the first} to third memories 107, 109, 111 that are not compressed. May be determined to be less than or equal to the total value (step S343: N). In this example including the first to third modules 101 to 103, data in at least one module cannot be completely transferred to other modules. Therefore, in this case, the data transfer mechanism unit 117 executes the processing by data compression shown in step S202 and subsequent steps in FIG. 3 (step S344). The description about this is omitted.

It is a block diagram showing the principal part of the electronic device in one Example of this invention. It is explanatory drawing showing the principal part of the backup management table of a present Example. It is a flowchart showing the mode of control until the backup start of the electronic device of a present Example. It is explanatory drawing showing a part of storage state of the data storage location in the memory in the predetermined module before data compression is performed. It is explanatory drawing showing a part of storage state of the data storage location in the memory in the predetermined module after data compression was performed. 6 is a flowchart showing a state of data restoration processing at the end of backup in the present embodiment. It is a flowchart showing the mode of control until the backup start of an electronic device in the 1st modification of this invention. It is a flowchart showing the selection process which selects the module with the most effect of power saving from several modules in the 2nd modification of this invention. It is the flowchart which showed the flow of the process until the backup start in the 3rd modification of this invention. It is a block diagram showing the principal part of the conventional electronic device.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Electronic device 101 1st module 102 2nd module 103 3rd module 104 Processor module group 105 1st CPU
106 Second CPU
107 first memory 108 third CPU
109 Second memory 111 Third memory 113 Backup transition detection unit 114 Diagnosis mechanism unit 115 Memory data compression mechanism unit 116 Minimum power consumption module configuration selection mechanism unit 117 Data transfer mechanism unit 118 Power management mechanism unit 121 CPU
122 Control program storage unit 124 Backup management table

Claims (10)

A plurality of modules containing at least a memory for storing data; and
A table with data storage specifications for each of these modules,
A storage continuation start timing detection means for detecting a storage continuation start timing as a timing for continuing the storage of data that needs to be saved among the data stored in the plurality of modules;
When the storage continuation start timing detection unit detects the storage continuation start timing, the data stored in each of the plurality of modules with reference to the table is stored as a part of the modules in a form with low power consumption. A collectability determination unit for determining whether or not the specific module can be collected;
Data transfer means for transferring all of the data stored in the remaining modules of the plurality of modules to the specific module when it is determined that the collectability determination means can be concentrated in the specific module in a form of low power consumption;
An electronic apparatus comprising: power supply control means for stopping power supply for each module for which the data transfer means has finished transferring data to the specific module. A plurality of modules containing at least a memory for storing data; and
A storage continuation start timing detection means for detecting a storage continuation start timing as a timing for simultaneously storing data that needs to be saved among the data stored in the plurality of modules,
When the storage continuation start timing detecting means detects the storage continuation start timing, the data that needs to be stored among the data stored in each of the plurality of modules is associated with other data for each data. Data sorting means for sorting by identification information;
A collection possibility determination unit that determines whether the data determined to be stored by the data selection unit can be collected in a specific module as a part of the plurality of modules;
Data transfer means for transferring all of the data that needs to be stored stored in the remaining modules of the plurality of modules to the specific module when it is determined that the collectability determination means can be collected in the specific module;
An electronic apparatus comprising: power supply control means for stopping power supply for each module for which the data transfer means has finished transferring to the specific module. A table describing specifications for data storage for each of the plurality of modules;
When the storage continuation start timing detection unit detects the storage continuation start timing, the collection permission / inhibition determination unit refers to the table and specifies the data stored in each of the plurality of modules in a form with low power consumption. 3. The electronic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the electronic apparatus is means for determining whether the modules can be assembled.   The aggregation availability determination means is a means for determining whether aggregation is possible based on the amount of data after compression when the data that needs to be stored stored in each of the plurality of modules is compressed. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the electronic device is provided.   5. The electronic apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising position information adding means for adding position information indicating a location of the data when the data that needs to be stored is compressed.   The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the specification of the table describes at least one of an installed memory amount and power consumption of each module. In a computer of an electronic device provided with a plurality of modules containing at least a memory for storing data and a table describing specifications relating to data storage for each of the plurality of modules,
A storage continuation start timing detection process for detecting a storage continuation start timing as a timing for continually storing data that needs to be saved among the data stored in the plurality of modules,
When the storage continuation start timing detection process detects the storage continuation start timing, the data stored in each of the plurality of modules with reference to the table is stored as a part of the modules in a form with low power consumption. A collectability determination process for determining whether or not a specific module can be collected;
A data transfer process for transferring all of the data stored in the remaining modules of the plurality of modules to the specific module when it is determined that the specific module can be concentrated in the form of low power consumption by the collectability determination process;
A power supply control program for an electronic device, wherein a power supply control process for stopping power supply is executed for each module that has finished transferring data to the specific module in the data transfer process. In the computer of an electronic device having a plurality of modules having at least a memory for storing data,
A storage continuation start timing detection process for detecting a storage continuation start timing as a timing for performing simultaneous storage of data that needs to be saved among the data stored in the plurality of modules,
When the storage continuation start timing is detected in the storage continuation start timing detection process, the data that needs to be stored among the data stored in each of the plurality of modules is associated with other data for each data. Data sorting process to sort by identification information;
A collectability determination process for determining whether the data determined to be stored in the data selection process can be collected in a specific module as a part of the plurality of modules;
A data transfer process for transferring all the data that needs to be stored stored in the remaining modules of the plurality of modules to the specific module when it is determined that the specific module can be collected by the collectability determination process;
A power supply control program for an electronic device, wherein a power supply control process for stopping power supply is executed for each module for which transfer to the specific module has been completed in the data transfer process. A storage continuation start timing detection step for detecting a storage continuation start timing as a timing for continually storing data that needs to be saved among a plurality of modules stored in a plurality of modules having at least a memory for storing data. When,
When the storage continuation start timing is detected in the storage continuation start timing detection step, the data stored in each of the plurality of modules is consumed with reference to a table describing specifications related to data storage for each of the plurality of modules. A collectability determination step for determining whether or not it is possible to collect in a specific module as a part of the module in a form with less power;
A data transfer step of transferring all the data stored in the remaining modules of the plurality of modules to the specific module when it is determined that the specific module can be concentrated in the form of low power consumption in the collectability determination step;
A power supply control method for an electronic device, comprising: a power supply control step for stopping power supply for each module that has finished transferring data to the specific module in the data transfer step. A storage continuation start timing detecting step for detecting a storage continuation start timing as a timing for simultaneously storing data that needs to be saved among a plurality of modules stored in a plurality of modules each including a memory for storing data; and ,
When the storage continuation start timing is detected in the storage continuation start timing detection step, the data that needs to be stored among the data stored in each of the plurality of modules is associated with other data for each data. A data sorting step for sorting by identification information;
An aggregation determination step for determining whether data determined to be stored in the data selection step can be collected in a specific module as a part of the plurality of modules;
A data transfer step of transferring all of the data that needs to be stored stored in the remaining modules of the plurality of modules to the specific module when it is determined that the collectability determination unit can collect the specific module;
A power supply control method for electronic equipment, comprising: a power supply control step for stopping power supply for each module for which transfer to the specific module is terminated in the data transfer step.

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