Tiled Crossbar Multipathing for Parallel Multicast Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sequencing a performant multicast in a network switch implemented using a tiled crossbar architecture is challenging, as it requires efficient distribution of data packets while avoiding serialization issues.
Innovation Solution
A network device with a tiled configuration of crossbar switching units and multipath logic units, enabling parallel paths between input and output ports through primary and alternative paths, allowing simultaneous data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If all multicast outputs are connected to different column tiles, then efficient multicast is achieved through row bus broadcast, but if all outputs are connected to the same column tile, then the row bus broadcast technique cannot be used and multicast must be serialized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the column tiles into multiple groups, where each group is associated with a specific multipath logic unit. This segmentation allows the system to handle multicast traffic destined for different column tile groups through different paths, enabling parallel processing while maintaining efficient row bus broadcast capability when outputs are distributed across different column tiles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension to path selection by implementing multipath logic units that can route traffic through alternative column tile groups. This dimensional approach allows the system to switch between primary and alternative paths, transforming the routing problem from a single-dimension constraint to a multi-dimensional solution space where parallel multicast operations become possible.
2Productivity
If row bus broadcast technique is used for multicast, then efficient distribution is achieved, but if outputs are in the same column tile, then serialization is required reducing throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The multipath logic unit acts as an intermediary between the crossbar switching units and output ports. It receives multicast traffic from the row bus broadcast and intelligently redirects packets destined for different column tile groups through different paths, eliminating the need for serialization and maintaining high throughput even when outputs are concentrated in the same column tile.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects paths based on the destination of multicast packets. The multipath logic unit continuously monitors output port locations and adapts routing decisions in real-time, switching between primary and alternative paths as needed. This dynamic behavior allows the system to optimize for parallel transmission whenever possible, minimizing serialization time and maximizing throughput.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for operating a network switch comprising a plurality of input ports and a plurality of output ports. The method comprises receiving a first data packet received via a first input port and a second data packet received via a second input port to be delivered to an egress endpoint connected to a first output port, configuring a plurality of crossbar switch units arranged in a tiled architecture to pass the first data packet to the first output port via a primary path and pass the second data packet to the first output port via a secondary path, and transmitting the first data packet and the second data packet to the egress endpoint. The first data packet and the second data packet pass through the plurality of crossbar switch units simultaneously.