Integrated circuit with logic circuitry and multiple concealing circuits

Abstract

An integrated circuit comprises logic circuitry, organized in a multi-level hierarchy of modules. The integrated circuit comprises multiple sensing circuits. In operation, each sensing circuit senses an instantaneous current consumption Iof a respective one of the modules that draws current entirely through that sensing circuit. The integrated circuit comprises a concealing circuit for each of the sensing circuits. In operation, the concealing circuit receives as input a voltage Vcorresponding to the sensed instantaneous current consumption Iof its respective module, and the concealing circuit dissipates an instantaneous power Psuch that an instantaneous power sum Pof the instantaneous power Pand the instantaneous power Pto be dissipated by its respective module is substantially independent of activity of its respective module.