Decode Data for Fast PCI Express Multi-Function Device Address Decode
AssigneeInternation Business Machines Corporation
InventorsEtai Adar, Ilya Granovsky
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Abstract
An apparatus and method of fast PCIe multi-function device address decode utilizing a target function data look up table. One or more decode directives (e.g., targeted functions) are provided within the PCIe request packet, thereby eliminating the need for target function search during the decode process in the endpoint device. This enables single-decoder single-step decode implementation in complex multi-function devices.
Claims19
A method of PCI Express (PCIe) address decoding, said method comprising:
- providing a look up table in a PCIe host, said look up table operative to perform a mapping from an address range to a target function;
- and
- utilizing said look up table, sending a PCIe endpoint an address and suggested target function;
- decoding at the PCIe endpoint the received address utilizing said suggested target function;
- and
- verifying suggested target function information.
A method of PCI Express (PCIe) address decoding for use in a PCIe host, said method comprising:
- receiving PCIe requests, each having an address;
- determining a target device function in accordance with each said address;
- and
- assigning said target functions to requests issued to PCIe endpoints.
A method of PCI Express (PCIe) address decoding for use in a PCIe host, said method comprising:
- scanning PCIe devices and functions during a PCIe bus initialization phase;
- assigning address ranges to functions;
- and
- constructing a look up table mapping said address ranges to said target functions.
A method of PCI Express (PCIe) address decoding for use in a PCIe endpoint, said method comprising:
- receiving a read/write request packet from a PCIe host;
- determining if said request packet comprises suggested target function data;
- and
- if so, validating the target function data received in said packet.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.