Processor Power Limit Adjustment for Frequency Consistency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Server processors running at the same power consumption limit can have significant differences in operating frequencies due to variations in efficiency and leakage, leading to unpredictable performance in parallel processing tasks, as current methods like processor binning and cherry picking do not account for aging differences.
Innovation Solution
A method to adjust core and un-core operating frequencies of processors by determining frequency variations versus power consumption limits, setting target frequencies through averaging, and adjusting power consumption levels to ensure all processors operate at the same target frequency, thereby optimizing performance and predictability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If processors are set at the same power consumption limit, then power consumption is controlled, but operating frequencies differ leading to unpredictable performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the power consumption limit parameter for each processor individually based on its efficiency characteristics. By adjusting this parameter, processors with different efficiencies can achieve the same operating frequency, ensuring predictable performance while maintaining appropriate power consumption control for each processor's capabilities.
2Reliability
If processor binning or cherry picking is used to select processors with similar performance, then performance consistency is improved, but cost increases and aging differences are not considered
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-characterization by having each processor execute calibration routines that measure its own efficiency and determine its optimal power consumption limit. This eliminates the need for external binning or cherry picking processes, reducing costs while achieving performance consistency. The system also accounts for aging by continuously monitoring and adjusting parameters based on current processor state.
3Use of energy by moving object
If less efficient processors run at the same power consumption limit as efficient processors, then power consumption is controlled, but operating frequency must be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different power consumption limit parameters to different processors based on their individual efficiency characteristics. Instead of applying a uniform power limit, each processor receives a customized parameter that allows it to operate at its optimal frequency while maintaining appropriate power consumption relative to its capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of adjusting core and un-core operating frequencies of two or more processors of a server includes determining core and un-core operating frequency variations versus power consumption limit variations of the two or more processors. The method also includes determining two or more first power consumption levels associated with the two or more processors. Each one of the two or more processors run at essentially a same target core operating frequency and at a same target un-core operating frequency at the respective first power consumption level of the processor. The method further includes adjusting the core and un-core operating frequencies of the two or more processors by setting a power consumption limit of each one of the two or more processors at the respective first power consumption level of the processor.