PCIe Switch Flexible Routing Engine Firmware
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing PCI Express switch technology requires costly and time-consuming silicon re-fabrication for correcting errors or adding new routing features, limiting the ability to implement non-standard routing functions efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A flexible routing engine in a switch that uses a switch manager and firmware to dynamically update routing tables based on configuration requests, allowing for post-fabrication changes and the implementation of non-standard features without the need for new silicon revisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If routing functions are hard-coded into the switch during silicon fabrication, then routing reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates and manufacturing cost increases when changes are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic routing tables that can be updated after fabrication through configuration requests. The routing function transitions from static hard-coded to dynamic programmable, allowing the switch to adapt routing behavior post-manufacturing while maintaining reliable operation through structured update mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of routing function implementation from fixed hardware encoding to programmable data structures. By using configuration requests and updateable routing tables, the system allows parameter changes in routing behavior without requiring silicon re-fabrication, thus improving adaptability while maintaining reliability.
2Manufacturing precision
If silicon re-fabrication is performed to correct errors or add features, then routing function accuracy is improved, but time-to-market deteriorates and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary configuration of routing tables during initial device operation rather than requiring re-fabrication. Configuration requests are processed and routing tables are updated in advance of needing the changes, allowing errors to be corrected and features to be added without silicon re-fabrication, thus preventing time loss and reducing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses software-based routing tables as a copy of the physical routing logic. Instead of modifying the physical silicon, the system creates and updates virtual copies of routing functions through configuration data, allowing rapid iteration and correction without the time and cost of silicon re-fabrication.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standard PCIe routing functions are implemented, then device compatibility is improved, but versatility deteriorates when non-standard features are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal configuration mechanism that handles both standard PCIe routing functions and non-standard features through a single routing table update interface. The switch manager can process configuration requests for standard functions while also supporting custom routing features, making the device universally applicable to both standard and non-standard requirements without sacrificing compatibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are disclosed for a flexible routing engine in a PCIe switch. The system may include a switch manager that is enabled, through firmware, to configure one or more routing tables associated with a switch stack of a PCIe switch. To enable non-transparent bridging and non-standard routing, the method may include receiving a transaction layer packet at a translated routing port of a PCIe switch, and performing translation of the address and requester ID of the packet utilizing tables that are updated by the firmware of the switch manager to route the packet through the switch.