Workload-Aware Voltage Regulator Tuning for Processor Power Savings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing voltage regulators (VRs) in computer architectures are inefficient in managing power consumption as they are typically pre-tuned for worst-case workloads, leading to unnecessary power consumption for workloads that demand less, without considering workload-specific power demands.
Innovation Solution
Tuning the VR based on workload-specific information before execution, adjusting parameters such as load line, setpoint voltage, and phase shedding configuration to optimize power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the voltage regulator is pre-tuned for the worst-case workload, then the processor can meet the highest current demands, but the processor consumes excessive power when running workloads that require less than full load
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage regulator transitions from static pre-tuning to dynamic workload-aware tuning. The VR receives workload information from the processor before execution and adjusts its parameters (load line, setpoint voltage, phase shedding configuration) dynamically based on the specific workload characteristics, enabling optimal power efficiency for each workload while maintaining adequate current delivery capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage regulator modifies its operating parameters based on workload information. Specifically, it changes the load line value, setpoint voltage, and phase shedding configuration according to the workload's TDP, EDP, and di/dt characteristics, allowing the system to operate at optimal efficiency points for different workload conditions rather than being fixed at worst-case settings.
2Use of energy by moving object
If dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS) is used to adjust supply voltage for different workloads, then power consumption can be reduced, but the transitions introduce additional delays that impede processor performance
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage regulator receives and processes workload information before the workload is executed by the processor. This preliminary tuning allows the VR to be pre-configured for the upcoming workload, eliminating transition delays during actual execution. The VR adjusts its parameters in advance based on the workload's TDP, EDP, and di/dt characteristics, so no time-consuming transitions occur during workload execution.
3Loss of energy
If passive phase shedding is used to turn phases on/off based on current consumption, then current per phase can be optimized, but the process is reactive rather than predictive and cannot proactively optimize for upcoming workloads
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the processor communicates workload information (TDP, EDP, di/dt) to the voltage regulator before execution. This feedback loop enables the VR to proactively adjust its phase shedding configuration and other parameters based on the specific workload characteristics, transforming the reactive passive phase shedding into an active, predictive optimization system.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system of tuning a voltage regulator including receiving, at a voltage regulator, workload information for a workload to be executed by a processor that receives power from the voltage regulator; setting at least one of a load line value for the voltage regulator, a setpoint voltage supplied by the voltage regulator to the processor, or a phase shedding configuration of the voltage regulator based on the workload information; and sending to the processor, after the setting is complete, an acknowledgement signal indicating that the workload can proceed.