Implementation
Power Consumption
The electrical energy used by a circuit per unit time, comprising dynamic and static components.
Detailed Explanation
Dynamic power (P = α·C·V²·f) depends on switching activity (α), capacitance (C), voltage (V), and frequency (f). Reducing any factor saves power. Static power (leakage) flows even when circuits don't switch, increasingly significant at small nodes.
Power analysis tools estimate consumption from activity data. Power-aware synthesis and P&R optimize for power. Thermal constraints limit power density—excessive power causes heating and reliability issues.