Dynamic hardware configuration for energy management systems using task attributes

Abstract

A multiprocessor system (10) includes a plurality of processing modules, such as MPUs (12), DSPs (14), and coprocessors/DMA channels (16). Power management software (38) in conjunction with profiles (36) for the various processing modules and the tasks to executed are used to build scenarios which meet predetermined power objectives, such as providing maximum operation within package thermal constraints or using minimum energy. Actual activities associated with the tasks are monitored during operation to ensure compatibility with the objectives. The allocation of tasks may be changed dynamically to accommodate changes in environmental conditions and changes in the task list. As each task in a scenario is executed, a control word associated with the task can be used to enable/disable circuitry, or to set circuits to an optimum configuration.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.