Vector Processor Preload Registers for Desynchronized Execution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vector processors face significant performance degradation due to disruptions in the execution pipeline for handling serial or scalar operations, as these disruptions halt continuous vector operations, leading to reduced throughput.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of preload registers for vector length, vector constant, vector address, and vector stride, coupled with multiplexors, allows for desynchronized and asynchronous execution of instructions, enabling concurrent execution of vector and non-vector operations while maintaining critical processor state integrity through controlled resynchronization and asynchronous reserialization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the vector processor handles serial or scalar operations by disrupting the execution pipeline, then serial/scalar operations can be processed, but vector operation throughput is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the parameter update mechanism into separate entities: preload registers that can be updated independently of the execution pipeline, and the execution pipeline itself. This allows parameter updates to occur in parallel with vector operations without disrupting the continuous execution flow, thereby maintaining high throughput while enabling handling of diverse operations including serial and scalar operations.
2Productivity
If the vector pipeline executes continuously at high speed, then vector operation throughput is maximized, but handling of serial/scalar operations becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces preload registers as intermediary components between the control logic and the execution pipeline. These registers serve as a buffer that decouples parameter updates from execution, allowing the pipeline to continue operating at high speed while parameters are updated in preparation for subsequent operations. This intermediary mechanism enables seamless transition between vector and serial/scalar operations without pipeline disruption.
3Reliability
If resynchronization is performed frequently to maintain processor state integrity, then processor state accuracy is maintained, but performance losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by updating parameters in preload registers before they are needed by the execution pipeline. This advance preparation ensures that when parameter changes are required, they are already staged and ready, minimizing the need for disruptive resynchronization events. The preliminary updating of parameters in preload registers maintains processor state integrity while allowing the pipeline to continue executing without interruption.
Data Source
AI summary
In one implementation a vector processor unit having preload registers for at least some of vector length, vector constant, vector address, and vector stride. Each preload register has an input and an output. All the preload register inputs are coupled to receive a new vector parameters. Each of the preload registers' outputs are coupled to a first input of a respective multiplexor, and the second input of all the respective multiplexors are coupled to the new vector parameters.