Integrated circuit device core power down independent of peripheral device operation

A computer system that is configured to enter a sleep mode and exit the sleep mode, comprising:

• a computer readable memory storing computer readable code;
• a processor coupled to the computer readable memory and for executing a computer readable code, the processor including a plurality of functional blocks;
• a peripheral device coupled to the processor and for providing functionality to a user;
• an input output pin coupling the peripheral device to the processor;
• a pin configuration component for selectively coupling the plurality of functional blocks to the input output pin to enable a corresponding plurality of functions for the input output pin;
• an output storage element coupled to the pin configuration component for storing a current value of the input output pin;
• and
• a sleep mode enable for controlling the output storage element to store the current value of the input output pin prior to the plurality of functional blocks being placed into a sleep mode, causing the current value of the input output pin to remain asserted after entry into the sleep mode, and for deactivating the output storage element when exiting the sleep mode.

A method for maintaining asserted values on an input output pin of an integrated circuit device when a functional block of the device is placed in a sleep mode, comprising:

• receiving a current value from a functional block and coupling the current value to an input output pin by using an interface;
• receiving a capture signal causing the storing of the current value of the input output pin by using a storage element coupled to the input output pin, wherein the storing occurs prior to the functional block entering a sleep mode;
• receiving a sleep mode enable signal;
• responsive to the sleep mode enable signal, transmitting the current value from storage element to the input output pin, wherein the transmitting occurs subsequent to the functional block entering the sleep mode to maintain the current value on the input output pin while the functional block is in the sleep mode.