Region-Aware Memory Bandwidth Control for Predictable QoS
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Solution Overview
Problem
Processor cores in multicore processors face unpredictable and degraded quality of service due to contention for shared resources like caches and memory bandwidth, necessitating improved control and allocation methods.
Innovation Solution
Implementing region-aware memory bandwidth allocation (MBA) control using leaky bucket counters and flow control logic to monitor and manage memory bandwidth per thread and per memory region, allowing for fine-grained allocation and throttling based on defined thresholds and targets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If shared system resources (caches, memory bandwidth) are used by multiple processor cores, then resource utilization is improved, but quality of service becomes degraded and unpredictable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments memory bandwidth resources by dividing the memory address space into multiple regions (e.g., first memory region, second memory region). Each region can be independently allocated to different threads or applications, allowing fine-grained control over bandwidth distribution. This segmentation enables predictable quality of service while maintaining high overall resource utilization through region-specific allocation policies.
2Device complexity
If memory bandwidth is allocated without region-aware control, then system simplicity is maintained, but resource contention causes unpredictable performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality control by applying different bandwidth allocation policies to different memory regions. Each region can have customized allocation rules, thresholds, and control parameters tailored to specific workload requirements. This allows the system to maintain overall simplicity while providing targeted, predictable performance control for specific memory access patterns and applications.
3Reliability
If fine-grained memory bandwidth control is implemented per thread and region, then quality of service predictability is improved, but control mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a new dimension of control by introducing memory region as an additional allocation axis alongside traditional thread-based control. This dimensional extension enables region-aware bandwidth management where allocation decisions consider both thread identity and memory region, providing fine-grained predictability without requiring complete redesign of existing control mechanisms. The multi-dimensional approach allows incremental complexity addition with targeted benefits.
Data Source
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AI summary
Techniques for region-aware memory bandwidth allocation control are described. In an embodiment, an apparatus includes a processing core and control circuitry. The processing core is to execute a plurality of threads. The control circuitry is to control use of memory bandwidth per memory region and per thread.