NIC Meta-ID Caching for PCIe Transfer Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Input/output systems in data networks, such as switches and network interface controllers, face performance bottlenecks due to the need for multiple transfers of large data blocks between the host and I/O systems via PCIe interfaces, which can slow down operations.
Innovation Solution
The method involves caching data at a network interface controller (NIC), generating a meta-identifier for the data, and using this meta-identifier to perform services like compression or encryption on the cached data without reading it from the host, thereby reducing the need for PCIe interface transfers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If data is transferred multiple times between host and NIC via PCIe interface, then services like compression and encryption can be performed, but PCIe interface becomes a performance bottleneck
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by caching incoming data in the NIC's memory before the host processes service requests. When a service request arrives, the NIC can directly access the cached data without requiring a PCIe transfer from the host, thus performing services like compression and encryption on already-available data and avoiding unnecessary transfer delays
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - the meta-identifier - that enables the host to request services on cached data without directly accessing it through PCIe. The meta-ID acts as a reference that allows the NIC to locate and process the cached data locally, mediating between the host's service requests and the cached data storage
2Loss of time
If data is cached at NIC with meta-identifier, then PCIe transfers are reduced and latency is lowered, but NIC memory and meta-ID management are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by creating a lightweight meta-identifier that references the actual cached data. Instead of managing complex data structures or direct data access, the system copies only the essential identification information to the host, allowing service requests to be made without transferring the actual data and simplifying the management overhead
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by transforming the data representation from full data blocks to compact meta-identifiers. This parameter transformation reduces the amount of information that needs to be managed and transferred between host and NIC, while still enabling precise identification and access of cached data for service processing
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for operating an I/O system are disclosed. Embodiments of the present technology may include a method that involves receiving data at a NIC, caching the data at the NIC, generating a meta-identifier (meta-ID) for the data, writing the data to a host via a PCIe interface, providing the meta-ID to the host, receiving a request for a service at the NIC from the host, the request including the meta-ID, accessing the cached data in the NIC using the meta-ID, and performing the service on the cached data that was accessed in the NIC using the meta-ID.