Packet Processing Clock Control Using FIFO Load Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional packet processing systems operate at fixed clock rates, leading to inefficient power usage and heat generation, as they often run faster than required for the given load.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a feedback loop system that continuously adjusts the system clock in a packet processing module based on load conditions, such as FIFO fill levels and packet available signals, to optimize clock rates and minimize power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed clock rate is used in packet processing systems, then the system can maintain stable operation and meet worst-case processing requirements, but the system consumes excessive power and generates unnecessary heat when running faster than required for the given load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic clock rate adjustment by continuously monitoring FIFO fill levels and packet available signals, then adjusting the clock rate in real-time to match actual processing demand. This replaces the static fixed clock rate with a dynamic system that adapts to changing load conditions, allowing the system to operate at lower clock rates when load is light while maintaining stability when load increases.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback loops that monitor FIFO fill levels and packet available signals, then use this information to adjust the clock rate. The feedback mechanism ensures the clock rate is continuously optimized based on actual processing needs, preventing both power waste from over-clocking and processing failures from under-clocking.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed clocks are multiplexed onto the clock driving the processing module, then the system can handle different processing requirements, but the system complexity increases and power consumption remains high
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using multiple fixed clocks, the patent uses a single variable clock rate that dynamically adjusts to match processing requirements. This eliminates the need for complex clock multiplexing logic while maintaining the ability to adapt to different processing loads, thereby reducing system complexity while preserving flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The single adjustable clock rate serves multiple functions that would otherwise require separate fixed clocks. By making the clock rate variable rather than fixed, a single clock source can adapt to handle various processing scenarios, eliminating the need for multiple specialized clock circuits.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the clock rate is continuously adjusted to match processing demand, then power consumption is minimized, but the system requires complex feedback mechanisms and control logic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses straightforward feedback from existing FIFO fill level indicators and packet available signals that are already present in the packet processing architecture. This feedback is processed through simple comparison logic against threshold values, generating clock rate adjustment commands without requiring complex control algorithms or additional sensing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own internal state information (FIFO fill levels and packet availability) to automatically regulate its clock rate. The packet processing module essentially monitors itself and adjusts its operating speed based on its own workload, eliminating the need for external control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A packet processing module includes circuitry configured to receive feedback signals from each of N first-in, first-out (FIFOs), N is an integer that is greater than or equal to 1, determine a clock speed for the packet processing module based on the received feedback signals, and program a phase lock loop (PLL) based on the determined clock speed where the PLL provides a module clock at the determined clock speed to a packet processing circuit which is configured to receive and process packets from the N FIFOs. The feedback signals are a deterministic representation of processing needed for the packet processing circuit given a current state of packets available.