Dual Processor Early Activation for Initialization Speed
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Solution Overview
Problem
The startup process of electronic devices, such as smartphones and mobile television receivers, is time-consuming due to the sequential activation and initialization of multiple circuits and processors, leading to user dissatisfaction.
Innovation Solution
The method involves early activation of a second processor, like a digital signal processor (DSP), within the initialization routine by a first processor, using a burst access protocol to configure and program the DSP, allowing it to assist in the initialization process, thereby reducing the overall startup time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the second processor is activated early within the initialization routine, then the initialization speed is improved, but the system complexity increases due to additional coordination and programming requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The first processor performs preliminary configuration of the second processor before full system initialization. The first processor sets up control registers, configures memory interfaces, and prepares the second processor to receive firmware images early in the initialization sequence, enabling the second processor to become operational before other system components are fully initialized.
Solution Approach 2:
A firmware image transfer mechanism acts as an intermediary between the first processor and the second processor. The first processor downloads firmware images through a controlled interface that manages data transfer, allowing the second processor to be programmed and activated without requiring direct complex inter-processor communication protocols during the critical initialization phase.
2Productivity
If multiple processors are activated sequentially in the traditional manner, then the system stability is maintained, but the productivity decreases due to longer startup delays
Solution Approach 1:
The initialization sequence is made dynamic by allowing the second processor to be activated at different stages depending on system requirements. The first processor can configure the second processor to become operational at optimized points during initialization, adapting the activation timing to balance speed requirements with system stability needs for different operational scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates status monitoring and control mechanisms where the first processor monitors the initialization state and adjusts the activation timing of the second processor based on system readiness feedback. This ensures that the second processor is activated only when prerequisite conditions are met, maintaining system stability while optimizing initialization speed.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems provide for activating a second processor by a first processor in a dual processor device early within an initialization routine to enable the second processor to help complete initialization operations. The first processor may prepare a second processor chip for start up, configure the second chip's pins, program the second processor, download a firmware image on the second processor, and initiate operations on the second processor. By performing this initialization early within the initialization routine, the second processor can assist in the initialization routine.