Shared Adapter Queue Control Instructions for Low-Latency Data Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computing environments face inefficiencies in data transfer and processing due to high CPU cycle costs and network I/O expenses, particularly in shared resource environments where large data transfers occur, such as those involving network interface cards.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a computer program product that facilitates communications by executing instructions to manage queue controls between control programs and adapter modules, including operations like setting, extracting, and storing queue indices, to optimize data transfer and reduce latency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional data transfer methods are used in shared resource environments, then data can be transferred between control programs and network interface cards, but CPU cycle costs and network I/O expenses become very high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data transfer control logic from the CPU by implementing queue controls directly in the adapter module. The queue controls (including queue indices, thresholds, and pointers) are managed independently by the adapter module, allowing data transfers to proceed without continuous CPU intervention. This extraction of control functionality from the CPU resolves the contradiction by enabling efficient data transfer while minimizing CPU cycle consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter module is designed to autonomously manage queue controls and perform data transfers without requiring constant CPU service. The queue controls enable the adapter module to self-manage data movement between the network interface card and control programs, reducing the burden on CPU resources while maintaining high data transfer efficiency.
2Productivity
If queue controls are implemented to manage data transfer, then data transfer efficiency improves, but access and management of queue controls becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The queue control structure is segmented into distinct, well-defined components including queue indices, thresholds, pointers, and status flags. Each component has a specific function and is accessed through dedicated instructions. This segmentation reduces management complexity by providing a modular, systematic approach to queue control rather than requiring holistic management of a monolithic control structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs specific parameter changes within queue controls (such as modifying queue indices, adjusting thresholds, and updating pointers) to dynamically manage data transfer efficiency. These parameter changes are performed through standardized instructions that simplify the management process while maintaining high transfer efficiency, resolving the contradiction between complexity and performance.
3Ease of operation
If direct access to queue controls is enabled, then processing is simplified and performance improves, but latency management becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
Queue controls are pre-configured with initial values for indices, thresholds, and pointers before data transfer operations begin. This preliminary setup enables direct access and simplified processing during actual data transfers, while the pre-established control structure helps predict and manage latency characteristics, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and latency control.
Data Source
AI summary
An instruction executing within a computing environment is used to perform at least one operation on one or more controls of a queue to be used in communications between a control program executing within the computing environment and an adapter module of the computing environment. Execution of the instruction includes obtaining an indication of the queue for which at least one operation is to be performed on the one or more controls of the queue. At least one operation is performed on the one or more controls of the queue and a result of executing the instruction is provided.