Token Protocol Link Quiescent State Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Processor interconnects face challenges in reducing power consumption and efficiently transmitting control information, particularly in interconnect systems with switches and links, where control signals like 'end-of-message' can be misinterpreted as data, leading to complex escape sequences and inflexible control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a link with a one-line and a zero-line, where logical transitions indicate logic-one and logic-zero, ensuring an even number of transitions to return to a quiescent state, combined with a token structure that includes a first and second portion to differentiate data and control tokens, using bitwise XOR for efficient calculation of additional bits, allowing for flexible control without interfering with data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If control information is transmitted using discrete bytes in the data stream, then control signals can be sent over the interconnect, but control signals may be misinterpreted as data requiring complex escape sequences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dedicated control line as an intermediary channel that is separate from the data transmission path. This control line carries control information independently without interfering with the data stream, eliminating the need for escape sequences. The control line acts as a mediator that allows control signals to be transmitted clearly without being confused with data bytes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control tokens are transmitted over the interconnect, then control functions can be performed, but power consumption increases due to additional signal transitions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by requiring control tokens to return the link to its quiescent state after each control operation. The control token transmission follows a periodic pattern where the link state is reset to baseline, allowing power consumption to be minimized during idle periods while still enabling control functions when needed. This periodic resetting prevents continuous signal transitions and associated power drain.
3Speed
If the link maintains continuous signal transitions for data transmission, then high data rates are achieved, but the link cannot return to a quiescent state increasing power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the transmission protocol into distinct data tokens and control tokens, each with specific termination requirements. Data tokens can maintain continuous transitions for high-speed transmission, while control tokens enforce a return to quiescent state. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high data rates during data transfer while minimizing power consumption during control operations and idle periods.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a method of transmitting one or more tokens over a link between processors, whereby configurations of logical transitions on the lines are used to signal respective codes. The method comprises: transmitting a token by signalling a sequence of codes selected from said codes on the lines; and transmitting one or more additional codes on the lines to ensure that the total number of logical transitions on each line returns the link to a quiescent state following the signalling of said one or more tokens and additional codes.