Processor Memory Controller Timing Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
In computer systems, the timing relationship between target signals and synchronization signals can change due to external factors like power supply voltage or ambient temperature, affecting the correctness of sampling performed on these signals.
Innovation Solution
A processor with a memory controller that includes a first processor core connected to a memory physical interface, allowing the core to adjust the timing relationship between target signals and synchronization signals during the system's runtime, ensuring timing alignment and correct sampling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If memory training is performed only during system startup, then initial timing alignment is achieved, but timing alignment deteriorates due to external factor variations during system operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic memory training that can be triggered during system operation when conditions change (e.g., voltage fluctuations, temperature variations, or idle periods). This transforms the static startup-only training approach into a dynamic system that adapts timing parameters in real-time based on actual operating conditions, resolving the contradiction between initial alignment and sustained stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces feedback mechanisms where the system monitors timing relationship quality during operation and triggers retraining when degradation is detected. This closed-loop feedback ensures that timing alignment is maintained by continuously adapting to external factor variations, thereby resolving the reliability-stability contradiction
2Reliability
If memory training is performed continuously, then timing alignment is maintained, but system performance and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic memory training triggered by specific conditions such as idle periods, voltage changes, or temperature thresholds rather than continuous training. This periodic approach maintains timing alignment reliability while avoiding the performance penalty of constant training operations, resolving the contradiction between sampling correctness and processing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-diagnosis and self-adjustment by monitoring its own timing relationship quality and automatically triggering training only when necessary. This self-service mechanism eliminates unnecessary training operations that would reduce productivity while ensuring reliability is maintained through condition-based intervention
3Measurement precision
If timing adjustment is performed frequently, then sampling correctness is maintained, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary timing alignment during system startup and uses this initial configuration as a baseline. Subsequent training operations only make necessary adjustments from this pre-established foundation rather than performing complete realignment, thereby maintaining sampling precision while significantly reducing the time consumption of subsequent adjustments
Data Source
AI summary
A processor, a signal adjustment method, and a computer system including the processor are provided, pertaining to the field of computer technologies. The processor includes a memory controller. The memory controller includes a memory physical interface and a first processor core, and the first processor core is connected to the memory physical interface. After the computer system is started and during a running process of the computer system, the first processor core is configured to adjust a timing relationship between a target signal of the memory physical interface and a synchronization signal of the target signal. According to this application, timing alignment can be ensured between the target signal and the synchronization signal, thereby improving correctness of sampling performed on the target signal.