Processor FIVR Control for Atomic Voltage and Frequency Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current processor technologies experience a long delay when changing the clock source frequency due to the sequential and dependent changes required in the voltage source, which is not optimal for efficient performance and power consumption.
Innovation Solution
Integration of fully integrated voltage regulators (FIVR) within the processor allows for independent configuration of each core, enabling simultaneous and atomic changes in voltage and frequency, reducing power consumption and optimizing performance by allowing parallel changes across cores.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the voltage source is raised sequentially before changing the clock source frequency, then the processor stability is maintained, but the time delay increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-raising the voltage to the required level before initiating the clock frequency change. This ensures that when the frequency transition begins, the voltage is already at the appropriate level, eliminating the sequential waiting delay while maintaining processor stability throughout the transition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism that coordinates voltage and clock frequency changes simultaneously. This intermediary control system manages the transition by ensuring voltage and frequency changes occur in a coordinated manner rather than sequentially, reducing the overall time delay while maintaining stability.
2Reliability
If the voltage source is raised and waited for before changing clock ratio, then the processor operates stably at new frequency, but the power consumption increases due to extended high-voltage state
Solution Approach 1:
By pre-raising the voltage before frequency change, the processor minimizes the duration of the high-voltage state. The voltage is raised only long enough to prepare for the frequency transition, then immediately adjusted to the appropriate level for the new frequency, reducing unnecessary energy consumption compared to maintaining high voltage throughout the transition period.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent rushes through the voltage adjustment phase by making rapid, coordinated changes rather than gradual adjustments. This skipping of intermediate waiting states reduces the time the processor spends in high-power consumption modes while still achieving stable operation at the new frequency.
3Reliability
If sequential voltage and clock changes are implemented, then the processor maintains stability, but the productivity decreases due to long transition time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the voltage change and clock frequency change operations into a single coordinated transition event. By combining these previously sequential operations into a simultaneous process, the total transition time is dramatically reduced, improving productivity while maintaining processor stability through coordinated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The preliminary raising of voltage before frequency change enables the subsequent frequency transition to occur rapidly without stability issues. This preparation allows the system to execute the frequency change command immediately, improving productivity by eliminating the sequential waiting period while ensuring stable operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for atomic frequency and voltage changes in the processor. In one embodiment of the invention, the atomic frequency and voltage changes in the processor is feasible due to the enabling technology of fully integrated voltage regulators (FIVR) that are integrated in the processor. FIVR allows independent configuration of each core in the processor and the configuration includes, but is not limited to, voltage setting, frequency setting, clock setting and other parameters that affects the power consumption of each core.