Optional Command No Data Response for SoC Memory Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Memory access transactions in a system on chip (SoC) that fail to reach the main memory incur higher resource costs due to being transmitted off the SoC, affecting time and bandwidth.
Innovation Solution
Implementing read and write optional commands that allow devices to respond with a 'no data' signal when a transaction cannot be completed, indicating the reason for failure and allowing the request device to retry or abandon the command.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If memory access transactions are transmitted off the SoC to reach the terminating agent, then the transactions can be completed, but resource costs (time and bandwidth) increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optional command mechanism that allows intermediate devices along the transaction path to preliminarily respond with a 'no data' signal before the transaction reaches the main memory. This preliminary response indicates that data is not available at intermediate caches or buffers, preventing unnecessary transmission off the SoC and reducing transaction time while maintaining reliable completion through alternative paths or retries.
2Reliability
If memory access transactions are transmitted off the SoC to reach the terminating agent, then the transactions can be completed, but bandwidth consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where intermediate devices monitor the transaction path and provide feedback signals indicating data availability. When data is found in intermediate caches or buffers, the system receives positive feedback and completes the transaction internally without off-SoC transmission. When data is not available, a 'no data' feedback signal triggers alternative actions, reducing unnecessary bandwidth consumption while ensuring transaction completion through other means.
3Productivity
If optional command no data response is implemented, then resource costs are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the optional command no data response mechanism to work across multiple device types and transaction scenarios within the SoC. The same 'no data' signal protocol is used by caches, buffers, and other intermediate devices, allowing a single standardized mechanism to handle diverse situations. This multi-functional approach reduces overall system complexity compared to implementing separate specialized mechanisms for each device type, while maintaining high resource efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
Various embodiments include methods and devices for managing optional commands. Some embodiments may include receiving an optional command from an optional command request device, determining whether the optional command can be implemented, and transmitting, to the optional command request device, an optional command no data response in response to determining that the optional command cannot be implemented.