Multi-Processor Clock Distribution with Dynamic Primary Clock Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-processor systems, the existing clock distribution networks face challenges in efficiently managing power consumption and adapting to varying workload demands, leading to inefficiencies in energy usage and potential delays due to inflexible clock frequency configurations.
Innovation Solution
A clock distribution network that allows for dynamic reconfiguration of clock generation circuitry, enabling the selection of different clock signals as primary clocks without causing errors, and includes features like phase-locked loops and on-chip oscillators to manage power consumption and maintain synchronization across multiple processors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a single system clock frequency is used for all processors, then clock distribution is simple, but power consumption cannot be optimized for varying workload demands
Solution Approach 1:
The clock distribution network is segmented into multiple independent clock domains, each serving specific processors or processor groups. Each clock domain can be independently configured with its own frequency and phase settings, allowing processors to operate at optimized clock rates matching their workload requirements, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining manageable network complexity through modular organization
Solution Approach 2:
The clock distribution network implements dynamic reconfiguration capabilities where clock frequency, phase, and distribution topology can be adjusted in real-time based on system workload demands. Software-controlled mechanisms allow the system to transition between different clock configurations, enabling processors to scale their operating frequencies dynamically and optimize power consumption during low-utilization periods while maintaining high performance when needed
2Use of energy by moving object
If clock frequency is reduced to save power, then energy efficiency improves, but system responsiveness and performance decrease
Solution Approach 1:
Different processors or processor groups are assigned different clock frequencies based on their specific workload requirements and performance-criticality. Non-critical processors can operate at lower frequencies for improved energy efficiency, while critical processors maintain higher frequencies to preserve system responsiveness and overall productivity, achieving optimized energy efficiency without sacrificing necessary computational throughput
3Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic reconfiguration of clock generation circuitry is implemented, then adaptability to workload demands improves, but system complexity and potential for errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary validation and synchronization checks before switching between clock configurations. Configuration changes are pre-planned and validated to ensure proper phase alignment and frequency matching before actual switching occurs, preventing timing violations and synchronization errors. This preliminary action maintains system reliability while enabling dynamic adaptability to varying workload demands
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a synchronous digital system are disclosed that may include generation of clock and synchronization signals. Any of a plurality of available clock signals may be selected for use as a primary clock, without causing clock-induced errors in the synchronous digital system. The clock signals may be selected automatically or programmatically. Clock generation circuitry may generate a clock signal that is initially used as the primary clock. The clock generation circuitry may be dynamically reconfigured without interrupting operation of the synchronous digital system, by first selecting another of the available clock signals for use as the primary clock.