Multi-CPU Turbo Frequency Segmentation for Execution Jitter Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Software applications running on multi-core processors experience execution jitter due to non-deterministic code execution timing, which is undesirable for applications requiring precise and predictable execution times, such as real-time and financial trading applications.

Innovation Solution

The system optimizes workload by allowing multiple CPUs to operate at distinct turbo frequencies, with the control circuit managing core configurations to reduce execution jitter by enabling a different number of cores on each CPU to operate at specific frequencies, using a turbo boost frequency table to select optimal frequencies and schedule AVX threads appropriately.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If multiple cores operate at the same turbo frequency, then processing speed is improved, but execution timing becomes non-deterministic causing jitter

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing speedVSAvoidexecution timing determinism
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by assigning different turbo frequencies to different CPU cores based on their specific workload characteristics. Frequency-sensitive threads are assigned to cores operating at one turbo frequency, while parallel execution-sensitive threads are assigned to cores operating at a different turbo frequency. This localized frequency assignment allows each core to be optimized for its specific thread type, maintaining both high processing speed and deterministic execution timing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the multi-core processor into distinct frequency zones, dividing cores into groups that operate at different turbo frequencies. This segmentation enables independent frequency control for different thread types, allowing the system to maintain deterministic execution timing for frequency-sensitive threads while still providing high-speed processing for parallel threads through separate frequency domains.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If all cores are enabled to maximize processing capacity, then productivity is improved, but execution jitter increases due to frequency sensitivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing capacityVSAvoidexecution timing consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables all cores to operate simultaneously but applies local quality by assigning different turbo frequencies to different core groups based on thread type. Frequency-sensitive threads are assigned to cores at a first turbo frequency, while parallel execution-sensitive threads are assigned to cores at a second turbo frequency. This allows maximum processing capacity utilization while maintaining execution timing consistency within each frequency group.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the enabled cores into distinct frequency groups, allowing all cores to be productive while reducing jitter through frequency-based separation. Each segment operates at a predetermined turbo frequency selected to minimize execution jitter for its specific thread type, thereby maintaining both high productivity and timing consistency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Device complexity

If cores are disabled to reduce complexity, then device complexity is reduced, but processing speed decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecore configuration complexityVSAvoidprocessing speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic core management where the number of enabled cores and their turbo frequencies are adjusted based on the specific thread workload and execution requirements. The system dynamically selects which cores to enable and at what turbo frequency to operate them, optimizing the balance between processing speed and execution determinism without requiring static core disabling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes operational parameters (turbo frequency and core enablement state) based on thread characteristics and execution requirements. Rather than permanently disabling cores, the system adjusts frequency parameters and core activation states dynamically to achieve deterministic execution timing while maintaining high processing speed when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUSRE48691E1Workload optimized server for intelligent algorithm trading platforms
Publication Date: 2021.08.17 DELL PROD LP
  • USRE48691E1 patent drawing
  • USRE48691E1 patent drawing
  • USRE48691E1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods for a workload optimized server for intelligent algorithm trading platforms. In an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, an Information Handling System (IHS) may include a plurality of Central Processing Units (CPUs) and a control circuit coupled to the plurality of CPUs, the control circuit having a memory configured to store program instructions that, upon execution by the control logic, cause the IHS to: set a first number of enabled cores in a first CPU to operate with a first all-core turbo frequency, and set a second number of enabled cores in a second CPU to operate with a second all-core turbo frequency, where the first number of enabled cores is different from the second number of enabled cores, and where at least one of the first or second all core turbo frequencies is selected to cause the IHS to operate with reduced execution jitter.