Transmitter Buffer Flow Control Using Ethernet Pause Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data transmission systems face challenges in effectively controlling data flow to prevent buffer overflow and starvation, particularly in transceivers where backpressure mechanisms are not timely or efficient, leading to suboptimal performance and potential data loss.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method that uses Ethernet pause frames to control data flow by comparing buffer filling levels with predetermined thresholds, allowing for timely assertion and deassertion of backpressure, thereby managing data transmission to prevent overflow and ensure timely data processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional backpressure mechanisms are used to control data flow, then data transmission can be regulated, but buffer overflow and starvation occur due to lack of timely control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by monitoring the buffer filling level in advance and triggering pause frames before the buffer overflows. The system continuously tracks the buffer status and proactively asserts backpressure when the filling level approaches the threshold, preventing overflow rather than reacting after it occurs. This also ensures timely deassertion before buffer starvation happens.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the buffer filling level and using this information to dynamically control the assertion and deassertion of backpressure. The system creates a closed-loop control mechanism where the buffer status directly influences the pause frame transmission, enabling timely and adaptive data flow management that prevents both overflow and starvation.
2Productivity
If Ethernet pause frames are used to control data flow, then backpressure can be asserted and deasserted, but excessive buffer capacity is required to handle overflow and starvation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces the required buffer capacity by applying preliminary action through proactive pause frame transmission. By monitoring the buffer filling level and triggering backpressure assertions before overflow occurs, the system prevents the need for excessively large buffers. The pause frames are sent at optimal moments to control data flow, allowing smaller buffers to suffice while maintaining efficient operation.
3Reliability
If backpressure is asserted to prevent buffer overflow, then data loss is prevented, but data transmission is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the backpressure control adaptive and responsive rather than static. The system dynamically adjusts the assertion and deassertion of pause frames based on real-time buffer filling levels. This dynamic control allows the system to prevent data loss while minimizing transmission interruptions, as backpressure is applied only when necessary and removed promptly when the buffer has space available.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a data flow, a transmitter and a data transmission system are described. For example, in a method of controlling a data flow of a transmitter, first data is received at a first interface. The first data is buffered in a buffer. The first data is output via a second interface. Information is determined regarding an estimated amount of second data comprising payload data output via the first interface until a filling level of the buffer will reach a predetermined threshold. An amount of the payload data output via the first interface is adjusted based on the information. The payload data is then output via the first interface. Similarly, a transmitter includes an interface to output payload data and a control signal, and a buffer to buffer further data received via the interface wherein the control signal controls a flow of said further data.