Processor Power Throttling via Dynamic Instruction Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computer chips face significant power consumption challenges, with some software applications dissipating up to five times more power than others, leading to increased costs and thermal management issues, particularly in worst-case scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that estimate power consumption by aggregating power values associated with instructions and tasks, preventing further processing when thresholds are exceeded to reduce power and temperature, using a power throttling logic that monitors events, accumulates power, and asserts a throttle signal to control processor activity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If instructions are continuously issued to maximize processor productivity, then productivity is improved, but power consumption increases beyond acceptable thresholds
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where power consumption is continuously monitored and measured. When the measured power consumption exceeds a predetermined threshold, the system asserts a throttle signal to prevent further instruction issuance. This closed-loop feedback control dynamically adjusts processor activity based on real-time power conditions, resolving the contradiction between maintaining high productivity and staying within power constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the instruction issuance rate based on real-time power consumption levels. Rather than operating at a fixed throughput, the processor adaptively modulates its activity - issuing instructions when power consumption is within thresholds and pausing when thresholds are exceeded. This dynamic behavior allows the system to maximize productivity during low-power periods while preventing excessive power consumption during high-demand periods.
2Productivity
If processing continues at high rate to maintain performance, then productivity is improved, but temperature increases leading to thermal overload
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses temperature as a feedback parameter to control processing rate. Temperature sensors continuously monitor chip temperature, and when temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, the system asserts a throttle signal to reduce processing activity. This feedback loop prevents thermal overload by dynamically adjusting the processing rate based on real-time temperature conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system takes preliminary action by monitoring temperature trends and asserting throttle signals before critical thermal conditions occur. By proactively reducing processing rate when temperature approaches threshold levels, the system prevents thermal overload and potential damage before it occurs, rather than reacting after the problem arises.
3Use of energy by moving object
If power threshold is set low to ensure power safety, then power consumption is controlled, but processor productivity decreases due to frequent throttling
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows dynamic adjustment of the power threshold parameter based on operating conditions. Rather than using a fixed, conservative threshold that would cause frequent throttling, the system can adapt the threshold level to match actual power supply capabilities and thermal conditions. This parameter adjustment optimizes the balance between power control and productivity by setting thresholds that are safe yet permissive enough to maintain high instruction throughput.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention relate to limiting maximum power dissipation occurred in a processor. Therefore, when an application that requires excessive amounts of power is being executed, the execution of the application may be prevented to reduce dissipated or consumed power.