Reconfigurable Processor Predicate Signal Memory Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reconfigurable processors face inefficiencies in power consumption due to constant activation of configuration memories, even when not needed, which is exacerbated by high no-operation (NOP) ratios and small instruction per cycle (IPC) values in coarse grained array (CGA) operations.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable processor design with a distributed configuration memory structure, separating it into a distributed operation configuration memory and a distributed routing configuration memory, where the operation configuration memory is activated only when necessary, using a predicate signal to control activation and deactivation, and employing a CGA mode selection signal to maintain routing configuration memory operation regardless of the predicate signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the distributed operation configuration memory is constantly activated to ensure ready operation of the reconfigurable processor, then the processor can respond immediately to any operation requests, but power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The distributed operation configuration memory is activated periodically based on the predicate signal rather than continuously. The memory activation is synchronized with the predicate signal, which is generated based on actual operation needs. This periodic activation pattern allows the system to maintain responsiveness while significantly reducing power consumption during idle periods when no operations are required.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the distributed operation configuration memory is activated only when needed (using predicate signal control), then power consumption is reduced, but the processor may experience delays in operation execution
Solution Approach 1:
The predicate signal is generated in advance based on predicted operation needs, allowing the distributed operation configuration memory to be activated before actually needed. This preliminary activation ensures that configuration data is ready when operations are required, eliminating execution delays while still avoiding continuous memory activation. The predicate signal acts as a forward-looking trigger that prepares the system proactively.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the distributed configuration memory is separated into operation configuration memory and routing configuration memory, then power consumption is reduced by selective activation, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The distributed configuration memory is segmented into two independent parts: distributed operation configuration memory and distributed routing configuration memory. Each segment can be activated independently based on specific needs. The operation configuration memory is controlled by the predicate signal, while the routing configuration memory is controlled by the CGA mode selection signal. This segmentation allows selective activation of only the necessary memory portion, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining manageable complexity through clear functional separation.
4Use of energy by moving object
If additional control signals and synchronization mechanisms are added to manage memory activation, then power consumption is optimized, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The predicate signal serves multiple functions simultaneously: it controls the activation of the distributed operation configuration memory, synchronizes the register, and indicates whether operation results should be stored in the storage unit. The CGA mode selection signal similarly controls the distributed routing configuration memory activation. This multi-functionality approach reduces the need for separate dedicated control signals, optimizing power consumption while minimizing the increase in system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a reconfigurable processor and operating method thereof. The reconfigurable processor may use a configuration memory distributed to each operation unit. The distributed configuration memory may be separated into a distributed operation configuration memory including configuration information about an operation of a function unit, and a distributed routing configuration memory including configuration information about routing. The distributed operation configuration memory may be activated according to a predicate signal.