Systems and methods for asymmetrical performance multi-processors
AssigneeInternational Business Machines Corporation
InventorsTimothy W. Gee, Mark A. Rinaldi
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Abstract
Systems, methods and media for allocating processing functions between a primary processor and a secondary processor are disclosed. In one embodiment, a primary processor performs routine processing duties, including execution of application program code, while the secondary processor is in a sleep state. When the load on the primary processor is deemed to be excessive, the secondary processor is awakened from a sleep state and assigned to perform processing functions that would otherwise need to be performed by the primary processor. If temperatures in the system rise above a threshold, the secondary processor is returned to the sleep state.
Claims19
A multi-processor system to allocate processing functions of a common operating system between a primary processor and a secondary processor, comprising:
- a primary processor to execute the common operating system to perform processor functions exclusive of a secondary processor, the processing functions comprising application code execution, during non-detection of a special condition, and to place the secondary processor in a wake state in the event of detection of the special condition;
- and
- a secondary processor to execute the common operating system to perform at least some processor functions when a special condition is detected and the secondary processor is in the wake state, and the secondary processor to remain in a sleep state in which a cache of the secondary processor is maintained during non-detection of the special condition, and the secondary processor when in the wake state to be placed in the sleep state if a monitored temperature exceeds a threshold.
A method for allocating processing functions from a common operating system among a primary processor and a secondary processor;
- comprising:
- storing executable code from the common operating system in a memory accessible by both the primary processor and the secondary processor;
- executing, by the primary processor, the executable code comprising application code during non-detection of a special condition;
- and
- executing, by the secondary processor, the executable code in response to occurrence of the special condition, the secondary processor to remain in a sleep state in which a cache of the secondary processor is maintained during non-occurrence of the special condition, the secondary processor to be placed in a wake state in the event of occurrence of the special condition, and the secondary processor to be returned to the sleep state if a temperature exceeds a threshold.
A computer program product comprising a computer useable storage medium having a computer readable program, wherein the computer readable program when executed on a computer causes the computer to:
- monitor one or more processing conditions while a primary processor performs processing functions of a common operating system for the primary processor and a secondary processor;
- maintain the secondary processor in a sleep state in which a cache of the secondary processor is maintained during non-detection of a special condition;
- place the secondary processor in a wake state and allocate processing functions by the common operating system to the secondary processor if the special condition is detected;
- and
- return the secondary processor to the sleep state if a temperature exceeds a threshold.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.