Configuration-Aware Processor Frequency Scaling for I/O Power Reuse
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Solution Overview
Problem
In single-socket and edge computing servers, the power saved due to underutilized CPU I/O interfaces is not effectively converted into increased CPU frequency, leading to limited performance enhancements and increased SKU complexity and maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an Adaptive Configuration-Aware (ACA) mode that dynamically adjusts CPU frequency based on I/O interface utilization, redirecting saved power to boost CPU core frequency, using a configuration detector, power-saving calculator, and power-frequency mapping table.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the CPU maintains original frequency values (P0n and P1) with reserved power budget for I/O subsystem, then the power budget allocation is preserved, but the performance is limited and the saved power cannot be utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic frequency adjustment based on actual I/O utilization status. The system transitions from static frequency maintenance to dynamic frequency scaling, where the CPU frequency is continuously adjusted according to real-time I/O interface usage conditions, allowing the same CPU SKU to operate at different frequencies depending on configuration and utilization scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters by introducing configuration-aware frequency levels (P0n-ACA and P1-ACA) that differ from traditional fixed frequency levels. The system modifies frequency parameters based on I/O connection status and power savings calculations, enabling the CPU to operate at higher frequencies when I/O interfaces are underutilized
2Productivity
If multiple CPU SKUs are designed to support different I/O configurations, then the performance optimization is achieved, but the SKU complexity and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single CPU SKU universal by enabling it to adapt to multiple I/O configurations dynamically. Instead of requiring different SKUs for different socket configurations and I/O utilization scenarios, the same CPU SKU can operate optimally across single-socket, multi-socket, and edge computing scenarios through configuration-aware frequency adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts frequency based on detected I/O connection status, allowing one SKU to serve multiple purposes. The frequency adjustment mechanism enables the CPU to adapt its performance characteristics according to the actual hardware configuration and utilization patterns, eliminating the need for multiple specialized SKUs
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for dynamically adjusting a frequency of a processor. A connection status of input/output (I/O) interfaces of a processor is determined. An amount of power that can be saved is determined based on the connection status of the I/O interfaces. A frequency of the processor is then adjusted based on the amount of power that can be saved. The frequency of the processor may be adjusted based on a power frequency mapping table which includes various power levels and corresponding frequency values. The processor may be configured with a default frequency and the default frequency is adjusted based on the amount of power that can be saved. The connection status of the I/O interfaces may be determined, and the frequency of the processor may be adjusted accordingly, during boot up of the processor or during runtime of the processor.