Processor Core Adaptive Frequency Optimization via Parameter Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Microprocessor circuits are often optimized during design based on predicted behavior, but physical hardware may exhibit unforeseen behaviors, necessitating tuning that current methods, such as scan-only methodologies, cannot effectively address dynamically during operation.
Innovation Solution
A processor is configured to store both a default and an alternative parameter set, allowing cores to switch between them by resetting and reinitializing based on changing operating conditions, enabling adaptive frequency and voltage adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If scan-only methodology is used to set operating characteristics during boot-up, then the tuning process is simple and fast, but the operating characteristics remain constant and cannot adapt to unforeseen physical hardware behaviors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static tuning controls into dynamic ones by enabling runtime switching between default and alternative parameter sets. The core processor can change its operating characteristics (frequency, voltage, timing) dynamically based on actual performance feedback, converting a static boot-up configuration into an adaptive system that responds to physical hardware behavior throughout operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements parameter changes by storing multiple parameter sets (default and alternative) with different operating characteristics. The system switches between these parameter sets by modifying core processor parameters such as frequency, voltage, and timing values, allowing adaptation to unforeseen physical hardware behaviors without changing the fundamental system architecture.
2Productivity
If default parameter set is used for core operation, then the core operates with initial optimized settings, but cannot optimize performance based on actual hardware behavior
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables dynamic performance optimization by allowing the core processor to switch between parameter sets during runtime. This transforms the static performance characteristics into dynamic ones that can be adjusted based on actual hardware behavior, workload conditions, and performance feedback, thereby improving overall productivity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system monitors actual hardware behavior and performance outcomes, then uses this information to determine when to switch between parameter sets. This feedback loop enables the core processor to optimize its performance by selecting the appropriate parameter set based on real-world operating conditions rather than relying solely on design-phase predictions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If alternative parameter set is implemented for dynamic switching, then adaptability improves, but reset and reinitialization processes increase operation time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple parameter sets (default and alternative) during the design and manufacturing phases. These parameter sets are prepared in advance with all necessary operating characteristics (frequency, voltage, timing) pre-calculated and stored, so that during runtime, the system only needs to switch between pre-prepared configurations rather than performing complex real-time optimization, thereby minimizing reset and reinitialization time.
4Manufacturing precision
If design phase optimization based on models is used, then the optimization process is efficient, but physical hardware behavior deviations cannot be addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The invention addresses the gap between model predictions and actual hardware behavior by implementing parameter changes through alternative parameter sets. These alternative sets contain adjusted frequency, voltage, and timing parameters that compensate for unforeseen physical hardware behaviors. The system can switch to these adjusted parameters when deviations are detected, thereby improving reliability while maintaining the efficiency of design-phase optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that monitor actual hardware performance and compare it against expected behavior from design models. When deviations are detected, the feedback system triggers switching to alternative parameter sets that were prepared to correct such deviations. This feedback loop bridges the gap between theoretical model optimization and actual hardware performance, improving reliability without sacrificing manufacturing efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for facilitating adaptive frequency in a processor having a plurality of cores. The method can include conducting tests on the processor; determining, via the processor testing system, default parameters for operating one or more of the cores, wherein the default parameters are based on results of the tests and cause one or more of the cores to operate within production yield goals of the processor; determining alternative parameters for operating one or more of the cores, wherein the alternative parameters are based on results of the test and cause one or more of the cores to operate outside production yield goals of the processor, and wherein the alternative parameters are usable to reconfigure one or more of the cores after an initial operation per the default parameters; and writing the default parameters and the alternative parameters to a production data storage of the processor.