Embedding Profile Tests in Compiled Binaries for Deterministic Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Profile driven feedback (PDF) in software compilation requires user intervention to specify and run test cases, leading to non-deterministic results and debugging issues due to potential modifications in test cases, affecting the consistency and accuracy of optimization.
Innovation Solution
Embedding test cases into a binary file during compilation, allowing automatic execution and recompilation based on performance data, ensuring consistent execution context and accurate profiling without user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If user specifies and runs test cases manually to generate profile information, then the profiling process can be completed, but the process becomes non-deterministic and requires user intervention
Solution Approach 1:
Test cases are embedded into the binary file during compilation, preparing them in advance for automatic execution. This preliminary embedding eliminates the need for manual user intervention later, making the profiling process both automated and deterministic across different compilation runs.
Solution Approach 2:
The compiled binary file contains embedded test cases that automatically execute during profiling without requiring external user input. The system serves itself by having the binary file contain its own test cases, eliminating dependency on user actions and ensuring consistent, deterministic results.
2Adaptability or versatility
If test cases are modified intentionally or accidentally, then different profiles are generated, but this causes debugging and maintenance issues
Solution Approach 1:
Test cases are merged into the binary file itself during compilation, creating a unified structure where the test cases and the program code are inseparable. This merging ensures that any modification to test cases requires explicit user action, preventing accidental changes and maintaining consistency across profiling runs.
Solution Approach 2:
Test cases are nested within the binary file structure, embedded as part of the compiled code. This nesting protects the test cases from external modification and ensures they remain consistent with the program version they were designed to test, eliminating accidental changes while maintaining adaptability through controlled updates.
3Ease of operation
If manual user intervention is required for PDF process, then test execution can be controlled, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs the entire profiling process automatically without user intervention. The embedded test cases execute on their own when the binary is run, and profile information is generated automatically. This self-service approach dramatically simplifies operation and eliminates the time users would spend manually specifying and running tests.
Solution Approach 2:
All test case specifications are performed preliminarily during compilation, before runtime. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for user actions during profiling, making the process simple and fast. Users only need to compile with the appropriate flags, and the rest happens automatically.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present invention include a method, system and computer program product that embeds collected profiling test case information into a binary file of a computer program and subsequently recompiles the program. The method includes a processor specifying one or more test cases to be embedded into a compiled binary file, wherein the one or more test cases relate to at least a portion of a computer program representing a compilation unit; executing the one or more embedded test cases under the computer program; gathering performance data associated with the computer program as the one or more embedded test cases are executed; recompiling the compilation unit based on the performance data; and linking the computer program based on the performance data.