Local Instruction Loop Buffer in Execution Unit Register File
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Solution Overview
Problem
High power consumption in processor architectures, particularly when executing DSP algorithms, due to complex logic circuits that are not optimized for these workloads, leading to increased heat generation and performance degradation in portable devices and complex System on Chip (SOC) designs.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a local instruction loop buffer within the register file of an execution unit to enable direct execution of DSP algorithms, allowing other logic circuits to be powered down or freed for other workloads, thereby reducing power consumption and enhancing performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If complex logic circuits are incorporated into processor architectures to improve performance, then processing capability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processor architecture is segmented into multiple execution units (integer execution unit, floating-point execution unit, SIMD execution unit) that can operate independently. This allows the processor to activate only the specific execution units needed for a given task, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining high processing capability when full performance is required.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor dynamically adjusts its operational state by selectively activating or deactivating execution units based on workload requirements. The control logic monitors task demands and dynamically configures which execution units are active, enabling the system to optimize between performance and power consumption in real-time.
2Productivity
If multiple execution units are used to improve parallelism, then performance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The execution units are designed with multi-functionality to reduce overall device complexity. The integer execution unit can handle both integer and floating-point operations, and the SIMD execution unit can process multiple data types. This universal design allows fewer, more versatile execution units to provide the same parallelism as would require more specialized units.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple execution units share common resources including a unified register file, control logic, and interconnect structures. By merging these supporting components, the patent reduces the overall complexity that would otherwise be replicated for each execution unit, while still maintaining the parallel processing capability.
3Speed
If clock frequency is increased to improve performance, then processing speed is improved, but power consumption and heat generation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The processor employs periodic activation of execution units rather than continuous operation at maximum frequency. Execution units are activated in cycles or bursts corresponding to task requirements, allowing the system to maintain high processing speed when needed while reducing average power consumption and heat generation during lower-intensity periods.
4Productivity
If large blocks of logic such as cache memories are incorporated to improve general performance, then overall performance is improved, but power consumption increases for specialized algorithms
Solution Approach 1:
The processor implements local optimization by providing execution units with direct access to registers and small local buffers rather than requiring access to large cache memories for all operations. For DSP algorithms that operate on data already in registers, this local quality of operation eliminates the need to activate cache memory circuits, reducing power consumption for these specialized workloads.
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit arrangement utilizes a register file of an execution unit as a local instruction loop buffer to enable suitable algorithms, such as DSP algorithms, to be fetched and executed directly within the execution unit, and often enabling other logic circuits utilized for other, general purpose workloads to either be powered down or freed up to handle other workloads.