Cache Data Forwarding With Parameterized Latency and Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cache memory systems face data hazards and performance issues due to complex logic requirements for handling different operations and timing considerations, leading to stalling or data forwarding solutions that are inefficient and require frequent modifications.
Innovation Solution
A cache memory system with a data manager and tag manager that uses parameterized latency and throughput parameters to handle data forwarding and timing considerations, allowing flexible configuration for different actions without modifying the cache memory.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex forwarding logic is implemented to handle data hazards, then data correctness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by introducing latency parameters and cycles per operation parameters to characterize different actions. These parameters allow the cache memory to adapt its data forwarding behavior dynamically based on the specific action being performed, resolving data hazards through parameterized timing control rather than complex combinatorial logic. The latency parameter specifies the number of clock cycles an action takes, enabling precise scheduling and forwarding decisions.
2Reliability
If the cache pipeline is stalled to prevent data hazards, then data correctness is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the cache memory's data forwarding behavior adaptive and configurable based on action parameters. Instead of a static forwarding logic, the system dynamically adjusts forwarding timing and data selection based on the latency and throughput characteristics of the current action. This allows the pipeline to remain flowing without unnecessary stalls while still preventing data hazards through parameterized control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional logic modifications are made to support different actions, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single parameterized data forwarding mechanism that can handle multiple different actions through configuration rather than dedicated logic for each action. The latency parameter and cycles per operation parameter serve as universal descriptors that allow the same forwarding logic to adapt to various actions (read, write, read-modify-write, etc.) without requiring separate logic paths or modifications to the core cache structure.
4Measurement precision
If complex forwarding logic is implemented, then measurement precision of timing is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses parameter changes to achieve precise timing control through simple parameterized logic. The latency parameter provides exact timing information for each action, enabling precise scheduling and forwarding decisions without requiring complex timing logic. This approach achieves high measurement precision in timing while keeping the forwarding logic relatively simple and parameter-driven rather than combinatorially complex.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a cache memory and methods that handle data forwarding from the cache memory to an action block to perform an action on the data. The action block performs an action on the data and outputs modified data in response to performing the action. The cache memory and methods use a latency parameter for data forwarding to prevent data hazards from occurring and to meet timing requirements and performance requirements of the cache memory.