Timed Work Queue Descriptors for Precise Network Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing time division multiplexing (TDM) techniques in networks face challenges with high precision synchronization requirements, often relying on expensive and inflexible specialized circuitry, and existing solutions like US Patent Publication 2021/0297151 are not scalable or capable of creating timestamps for any desired time.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating timing data and operators into work request entries in work queues, allowing peripheral devices to execute work requests based on these data and operators, using local clocks synchronized via Precision Time Protocol (PTP) for precise timing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If specialized circuitry is used for TDM synchronization, then timing precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces specialized hardware circuitry with software-based timing mechanisms. Work request entries contain timing data that specifies when work should be executed, and the system uses general-purpose processors with software timers to enforce TDM scheduling, eliminating the need for dedicated TDM synchronization hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses locally synchronized clocks at each host device to autonomously determine execution times for work requests. Each device independently compares its local clock time with timing data in work request entries to self-regulate packet transmission and processing without requiring complex centralized control circuitry.
2Adaptability or versatility
If local clocks with PTP synchronization are used, then scalability is improved, but timing precision may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates and embeds timing data into work request entries before transmission. This timing data specifies exact execution times based on PTP-synchronized clock values, allowing devices to autonomously execute work at the correct times without requiring continuous high-precision hardware synchronization during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts timing based on PTP synchronization updates. Local clocks are periodically synchronized using PTP protocol, and the timing data in work request entries is adjusted accordingly to maintain accurate TDM scheduling across the network despite using software-based timing rather than dedicated hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a system includes a peripheral device including a hardware clock, and processing circuitry to read a given work request entry stored with a plurality of work request entries in at least one work queue in a memory, the given work request entry including timing data and an operator, the timing data being indicative of a time at which a work request should be executed, retrieve a clock value from the hardware clock, and execute the work request with a workload while execution of the work request is timed responsively to the timing data and the operator and the retrieved clock value.