Checkpoint-Based Workload Processor Emulation for GPU Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thoroughly testing a workload processor, such as a GPU, requires real input data, which necessitates another costly workload processor, making it impractical and costly to build out fabrics with numerous GPUs or GPU clusters.
Innovation Solution
Emulating a workload processor using checkpoint data by storing output data from real processors at checkpoints in a database, allowing an emulated processor to retrieve and output corresponding data based on input data, including parameters like identification and operations performed by the real processor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If real workload processors are used for testing, then testing accuracy is improved, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of workload processor outputs by storing checkpoint data (outputs at predetermined checkpoints) in a database. The emulated workload processor retrieves and outputs this stored data to simulate real processor behavior, eliminating the need for physical duplicate processors while maintaining testing accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a checkpoint database as an intermediary between the real workload processor and the testing system. The database stores checkpoint data that mediates the interaction, allowing the emulated processor to obtain realistic output data without direct connection to multiple real processors
2Reliability
If additional workload processors are procured for testing, then testing thoroughness is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of procuring additional physical workload processors, the system creates virtual copies by storing and retrieving checkpoint data from a database. This allows multiple emulated processors to be instantiated from a single real processor's checkpoint data, enabling thorough testing without proportional increases in hardware quantity
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing and storing checkpoint data from real workload processors before testing begins. This pre-captured data is then reused during testing to emulate processor outputs, eliminating the need to run multiple parallel real processors during the testing phase
Data Source
AI summary
A method for emulating a workload processor using checkpoint data is disclosed. Checkpoint data including outputs of an processor at predetermined checkpoints in performing a first task is stored in a checkpoint database. An emulated first workload processor receives input data relating to the first task and accesses the checkpoint database using the input data. The emulated first workload processor extracts checkpoint data corresponding to the input data from the checkpoint database. The extracted checkpoint data or data derived from the checkpoint data is output to at least one real or emulated second workload processor that is performing a second task.