Programmable Hardware Virtual Network Interface for Heterogeneous Processors
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is no standard method to enable communication between an x86 host system and an embedded processor unit connected via a PCIe bus, requiring network interface cards on both systems for Ethernet connections, which adds cost and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A virtual network connection is established through programmable hardware, such as an FPGA fabric, using multi-function bus interfaces and DMA engines to facilitate communication between heterogeneous processors without the need for network interface cards, allowing data transfer via standard network protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If network interface cards are installed on both x86 host and embedded processor units to enable Ethernet communication, then communication capability is achieved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the network interface functionality directly into the programmable logic device that is already connected to the x86 host via PCIe bus. This merging eliminates the need for separate network interface cards on both systems, as the embedded processor unit can communicate directly with the host through the integrated network interface implemented in the programmable logic, thereby reducing component count and system complexity while maintaining communication capability
Solution Approach 2:
The programmable logic device is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a PCIe device for host communication and as a network interface for Ethernet communication. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware component to handle both types of communication, eliminating the need for dedicated network interface cards and reducing overall system complexity
2Reliability
If network interface cards are installed on both systems to establish Ethernet connection, then communication between heterogeneous processors is enabled, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network interface functionality is merged into the existing programmable logic device, eliminating the need for separate network interface cards on both systems. This consolidation reduces component procurement costs while maintaining full communication capability between heterogeneous processors through the integrated network interface
Solution Approach 2:
The network interface functionality is extracted from traditional separate network interface card implementations and integrated directly into the programmable logic device. This extraction and integration approach eliminates redundant hardware components and reduces overall system cost while preserving communication functionality
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for communication between heterogenous processors via a virtual network interface implemented via programmable hardware and one or more buses. The programmable hardware may be configured with a multi-function bus such that the programmable hardware appears as both a network device and a programmable device to a host system. Additionally, the programmable hardware may be configured with a second bus to appear as a network device to an embedded system. Each system may implement network drivers to allow access to direct memory access engines configured on the programmable hardware. The configured programmable hardware and the network drivers may enable a virtual network connection between the systems to allow for information transfer via one or more network communication protocols.