Instruction Buffer Ordering via Segmented Control Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing processing systems require a large number of multiplexing circuits to fetch and store instructions from multiple memory sources in program order, leading to increased circuitry and power consumption in the instruction pipeline.
Innovation Solution
A system with multiple instruction buffers and a control circuit that retrieves and arranges instructions in program order, reducing the need for extensive multiplexing by storing instructions in a fetch buffer and then selecting and rearranging them for decoding, thereby minimizing circuitry and power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple multiplexing circuits are used to fetch and store instructions from multiple memory sources in program order, then instruction retrieval and ordering is achieved, but circuit complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the instruction buffering into multiple separate buffers (first instruction buffer, second instruction buffer, third instruction buffer) each handling specific portions of instruction retrieval. This segmentation allows each buffer to operate independently with simpler control logic, reducing the overall circuit complexity while maintaining reliable program order through coordinated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control circuit as an intermediary that manages the instruction retrieval process from multiple memory sources. Instead of using complex multiplexing circuits directly at the memory interface, the control circuit coordinates the simpler buffer structures to achieve program order, reducing circuit complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If multiple multiplexing circuits are used to fetch and store instructions from multiple memory sources in program order, then instruction retrieval and ordering is achieved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the instruction buffering into multiple independent buffers, each buffer can be smaller and consume less power than a single large buffer managed by complex multiplexing. The control circuit enables power-efficient operation by activating only the necessary buffers for current instruction retrieval operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit acts as an intermediary that manages power consumption by coordinating the simpler buffer structures. It enables power-efficient instruction retrieval without requiring high-power multiplexing circuits, as the control logic optimizes which buffers are active based on current needs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of multiplexing circuits are used in the instruction pipeline, then instructions can be fetched from multiple memory sources, but the processing efficiency is reduced due to increased circuitry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the instruction fetch function across multiple independent buffers, each capable of accessing different memory sources. This segmentation provides adaptability to various memory access patterns while maintaining processing efficiency, as each buffer can operate independently without the overhead of large multiplexing circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit serves as an intermediary that manages adaptability to multiple memory sources without requiring extensive multiplexing circuitry. It coordinates the simpler buffer structures to achieve versatile memory access while maintaining high processing efficiency through reduced circuit overhead.
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, an apparatus includes a first buffer, a second buffer, and a control circuit. The control circuit may be configured to receive a first plurality of instructions included in a program. The control circuit may also be configured to store each of the first plurality of instructions in an entry of a first number of entries in the first buffer, arranged in the first number of entries dependent upon a received order. The control circuit may be further configured to select a second plurality of instructions from the first buffer. The second plurality of instructions may be selected dependent upon a program order. The control circuit may be configured to store each of the second plurality of instructions in an entry of a second number of entries in the second buffer, arranged in the second number of entries dependent upon the program order.