SLIMbus Segment Interval Configuration for Bandwidth Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
The Serial Low-power Inter-chip Media Bus (SLIMbus) specification wastes bandwidth due to predefined Segment Interval values that do not fit the size of raw data bits, leading to inefficient data transfers and increased power consumption, especially during bulk data transfers.
Innovation Solution
The use of a reserved Segment Distribution code and Segment Length to dynamically set a Segment Interval that matches the size of raw data bits, allowing for more efficient data transfers and improved power management by maximizing bandwidth utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If predefined Segment Interval values are used in SLIMbus, then the communication bus can operate with simple fixed parameters, but bandwidth is wasted when frame size divided by Segment Interval does not equal Segment Length
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the Segment Interval configurable rather than fixed. The active Manager can dynamically set the Segment Interval to match the actual data transfer requirements, allowing the system to adapt between simple operation and efficient bandwidth utilization based on the specific transfer needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of Segment Interval from a fixed predefined value to a configurable parameter. By allowing the Segment Interval to be set equal to the Segment Length when appropriate, the system can optimize bandwidth utilization for bulk data transfers while maintaining compatibility with the existing SLIMbus framework.
2Device complexity
If predefined Segment Interval values are used, then device complexity remains low, but data transfer efficiency decreases due to bandwidth waste
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static predefined Segment Intervals to dynamic configurable intervals. The active Manager can adjust the Segment Interval based on the specific data transfer requirements, enabling efficient bulk data transfers without significantly increasing device complexity since the configuration is managed centrally.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the Segment Interval parameter universal by allowing it to be configured for different scenarios. The same SLIMbus infrastructure can handle both simple transfers using predefined intervals and efficient bulk transfers using customized intervals, making the system multi-functional without requiring separate hardware for each case.
3Loss of time
If larger Segment Intervals are used to accommodate bulk data, then fewer bus operations are needed, but bandwidth is wasted due to mismatch between interval size and actual data size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes bandwidth utilization by changing the Segment Interval parameter to match the actual data transfer size. When bulk data transfers are needed, the Segment Interval can be set equal to the Segment Length, eliminating the waste that occurs with predefined intervals and reducing the number of bus operations required.
Data Source
AI summary
Full bandwidth communication buses are disclosed. While primarily focused on the Serial Low-power Inter-chip Media Bus (SLIMbus) communication bus, the concepts of the present disclosure may be extended to other communication buses. Exemplary aspects of the present disclosure utilize a reserved segment distribution code and a segment length to define a Segment Interval that is better-sized relative to raw data bits. By fitting the segment interval to the size of the raw data bits, bandwidth utilization is maximized, resulting in faster effective data transfers. Completion of such efficient data transfers may allow the communication bus to spend more time in a low-power mode and thus, conserve power. Additionally, such efficient data transfers may allow for better quality in presentation of multimedia content to the user.