Processor Clock Frequency Control via Noise Shaper
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling processor clock frequency are complex and lack precise control over idle times, leading to undesirable active and inactive cycles, which can cause disturbances and inefficiencies in processor performance.
Innovation Solution
A method using a noise shaper to generate a processor clock frequency by combining a reference signal with a control value-based second signal, allowing for adaptive frequency adjustment to balance idle times and processor load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a high clock frequency is used to reduce processor idle time, then productivity improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic frequency adjustment by continuously monitoring processor utilization and adapting the clock frequency in real-time. The frequency is increased when utilization is high to maximize productivity, and decreased when utilization is low to reduce energy consumption, creating a dynamic balance between performance and power efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the clock frequency parameter based on processor utilization measurements. By adjusting this critical parameter dynamically, the system optimizes the trade-off between productivity (higher frequency) and energy consumption (lower frequency) according to actual workload conditions
2Device complexity
If a fixed clock frequency is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to varying workload deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where processor utilization is continuously measured and fed back to the frequency control logic. This closed-loop system automatically adjusts the clock frequency based on actual workload conditions, providing high adaptability without requiring complex manual control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The frequency control system operates autonomously by self-monitoring processor utilization and self-adjusting the clock frequency accordingly. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external complex control mechanisms while maintaining high adaptability to varying workload conditions
3Device complexity
If coarse frequency control is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision of idle time control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic frequency adjustment with fine-grained control steps rather than coarse fixed increments. This allows precise control of idle time by making small, incremental frequency changes that can accurately match the desired idle time targets, improving measurement precision without excessive complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A method of providing a clock frequency to a processor is described. The method in accordance with the invention comprises the step of providing at least one reference signal and the step of determining a control value which relates to a desired first frequency. A second signal that relates to the control value is then used in a subsequent step as an input signal for a noise shaper. Then, a first signal which has the first frequency is generated by combining the output of the noise shaper with one of the at least one reference signals. The first signal is used as a clock frequency of the processor. In a preferred embodiment, one reference signal with a fixed reference frequency is provided. The reference signal is gated or enabled and hold by the output signal provided by a 1-bit noise shaper, whereby the first frequency is generated which is then used as processor clock frequency. The method in accordance with the invention is particularly advantageous as it allows for the control of the processor's clock frequency via the second signal that is fed into the noise shaper.