Iterative Division Latency Reduction via Parallel Mask and Shift Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current arithmetic logic units (ALUs) in computing systems face latency and power consumption issues due to the numerous clock cycles required for mask and shift operations during iterative arithmetic operations, such as division, which consume significant resources before achieving a final result.
Innovation Solution
A multiplier unit is configured to generate a final approximation of an iterative arithmetic operation, perform shift and mask operations, and calculate a remainder value to determine the sign of another remainder, ultimately reducing the number of clock cycles needed for rounding by executing these operations in parallel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional sequential mask and shift operations are performed during iterative arithmetic operations, then the operations can be completed with standard circuitry, but the number of clock cycles increases leading to higher latency and power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple operations (mask operation, shift operation, and remainder calculation) into a single parallel execution stage. The mask unit, shift unit, and remainder calculation unit all operate simultaneously on the final approximation, eliminating the need for sequential execution and reducing the number of clock cycles required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary calculations of the mask value and shift amount during the iterative approximation process itself, rather than computing them after the iteration completes. This allows the mask and shift operations to be executed in parallel with the final approximation generation, reducing overall latency.
2Productivity
If additional circuitry is added to support parallel operations, then latency is reduced, but the device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the mask unit and shift unit to perform multiple functions: they operate during the iterative approximation process and also handle the final formatting operations. This multi-functionality allows parallel execution without requiring completely separate dedicated circuitry for each operation, thereby reducing overall power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the mask value and shift amount based on the properties of the final approximation (such as the position of the most significant bit and the desired precision). This parameter adaptation allows the parallel operations to be optimized for each specific calculation, improving speed while minimizing the computational resources required.
3Loss of time
If mask and shift operations are performed sequentially in multiple clock cycles, then power consumption is reduced per cycle, but the total latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mask value and shift amount are calculated in advance during the iterative approximation process, allowing the actual mask and shift operations to be executed in parallel with the generation of the final approximation. This eliminates the need for sequential execution and significantly reduces latency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the mask operation, shift operation, and remainder calculation into a single parallel execution stage that occurs simultaneously with the final approximation generation. This consolidation reduces the total number of clock cycles required, thereby reducing overall power consumption despite the increased instantaneous power demand during parallel execution.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiplier unit may be configured to generate a final approximation of an iterative arithmetic operation performed on two operands. Circuitry coupled to the multiplier unit may perform a shift operation and a mask operation on the final approximation to generate shifted and un-shifted approximations, respectively. The circuitry may generate a first remainder using the un-shifted approximation and a sign value of a second remainder using the first remainder. Using the sign value of the second remainder, the circuitry may perform a rounding operation on the shifted approximation to generate a final answer.