PCIe MFD Sharing via Logical Functions and Non-Transparent Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for multiple PCIe hosts to share multi-function devices (MFDs) are complex, costly, and require specialized software, leading to potential interference and inefficiencies due to the need for unique software versions for each operating system and increased computing resources.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that enables multiple PCIe hosts to share MFDs using a control circuit to emulate physical functions as logical functions, providing non-transparent access through standard host drivers, eliminating the need for complex virtual intermediary software and reducing costs by utilizing hardware and firmware implementations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex virtual intermediary software is used for multiple PCIe hosts to share MFDs, then host cooperation and interference prevention are improved, but device complexity and computing resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex virtual intermediary software (mechanical/software system) with a hardware-based control circuit that manages PCIe host sharing. The control circuit emulates physical functions as logical functions and implements inter-domain bridging in hardware, eliminating the need for complex software coordination while maintaining reliable host cooperation and interference prevention through hardware-enforced access control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If specialized virtual intermediary software is used for each operating system, then OS-specific compatibility is improved, but device complexity and software maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hardware control circuit is designed to automatically handle PCIe transaction routing and resource allocation for multiple operating systems without requiring OS-specific software versions. The control circuit self-adapts to different OS environments through hardware-level configuration, eliminating the need for maintaining multiple specialized software versions while preserving broad OS compatibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fabric mode switch with proprietary routing is used, then multiple host connectivity is improved, but cost and computing resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit implements universal PCIe transaction routing functionality that can serve multiple hosts and devices through a single integrated hardware unit. Rather than using expensive fabric mode switches with proprietary routing, the control circuit provides multi-functional service by emulating physical functions as logical functions and managing inter-domain bridging for any combination of hosts and MFDs, significantly reducing cost and resource requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A system may include a plurality of hosts coupled to respective PCIe ports, and the system may be coupled to a multi-function device (MFD). The apparatus may be coupled to one or more PCIe devices. The system may include a control circuit, the control circuit to enable an MFD sharing port to allow access to the MFD by the plurality of hosts. Individual hosts may have exclusive access to one or more portions of the MFD and the access of one host may be non-transparent to all other hosts.