Processor Core Voltage-Frequency Switching With Integrated FIVR
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current processor technologies experience a long delay when changing the clock source frequency due to the sequential dependency between voltage and clock source ratio changes, which is not optimal for efficient performance and power consumption.
Innovation Solution
The 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 clock ratio changes across multiple cores.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the voltage source is raised before changing the clock source ratio, then the processor can safely increase frequency, but the waiting time causes performance delay
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-raising the voltage to a higher level before initiating the frequency change sequence. This allows the voltage to be ready in advance, eliminating the waiting time during frequency transitions. The voltage regulator is configured to proactively adjust voltage levels before clock ratio changes are initiated, ensuring both safety and speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the voltage regulator responsive and adaptive to frequency change requirements. The system dynamically adjusts voltage levels in coordination with clock ratio changes, allowing real-time optimization of the voltage-frequency relationship. This dynamic coordination eliminates static waiting periods and enables seamless transitions.
2Stability of the object's composition
If sequential voltage and clock ratio changes are used, then voltage stability is maintained, but the long delay reduces processing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary voltage adjustment before the clock ratio change is initiated. The voltage regulator proactively raises the voltage to the required level in advance, so when the frequency change occurs, the voltage is already stable at the appropriate level, eliminating delays while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuous useful action by overlapping the voltage adjustment period with the frequency change sequence. Instead of completing voltage change entirely before starting frequency change, the system maintains continuous optimization of both parameters, eliminating idle waiting time while preserving voltage stability throughout the transition.
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.