MMA Accelerator Memory Layout for Concurrent Matrix Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Performing matrix multiply-accumulate (MMA) operations in a processor results in the entire register file being locked, forcing other instructions to wait, leading to reduced parallel processing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing exclusive memory, such as tensor memory and shared memory, to store operands and accumulated results for MMA operations, allowing the register file to be available for other operations, and enabling asynchronous or concurrent performance of MMA operations with other requests.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If MMA operations store results in register file, then computation accuracy is maintained, but register file is locked and other instructions must wait
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the register file into multiple banks (e.g., bank 0, bank 1, bank 2, bank 3) that can operate independently. Different MMA operations can simultaneously access different banks, allowing parallel execution without conflicts. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by maintaining reliable storage in dedicated banks while enabling multiple instructions to proceed concurrently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a result management unit that acts as an intermediary between MMA operations and the register file. This unit coordinates access to register banks, managing data flow and preventing conflicts. It allows multiple MMA operations to proceed in parallel by mediating their access to the register file, thus maintaining both computation reliability and parallel processing capability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If entire register file is locked for MMA operations, then data consistency is ensured, but other instructions are forced to wait
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the register file into multiple independent banks, the patent allows different MMA operations to simultaneously access different banks without interfering with each other. This ensures data consistency within each bank while eliminating the need to lock the entire register file, thus reducing instruction waiting time and maintaining data integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic access control where the register file structure adapts to handle multiple concurrent MMA operations. Instead of a static lock mechanism, the system dynamically manages access to different banks based on operation requirements, allowing flexible parallel execution while maintaining data consistency through coordinated access protocols.
3Productivity
If dedicated storage is allocated for MMA operations, then concurrent execution is enabled, but memory resource consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the register file serve multiple functions: it acts as both the computation workspace for MMA operations and the storage for results. By allowing the same physical storage resources to be shared across multiple MMA operations through time-multiplexed or space-multiplexed access, the system enables concurrent execution without requiring separate dedicated storage for each operation, thus avoiding excessive memory resource consumption.
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatuses, systems, and techniques to perform an matrix multiply accumulate (MMA) instruction to cause a plurality of portions of an MMA operation to be performed using a corresponding plurality of MMA accelerators. In at least one embodiment, a processor retrieves a plurality of matrix information from a memory that exclusively stores and performs a multiplication computation using said matrix information.