A power-efficient network on-chip topology

Abstract

NoCs have become a critical component in many-core architectures. Usually, the preferred topology is the 2D-Mesh as it enables a tile-based layout significantly reducing the design effort. However, new emerging challenges such as power consumption need to be addressed. Looking at the NoC, routers and links not being used must be switched off, thus achieving large power savings. Topology and routing algorithm must be carefully designed as they may lack enough flexibility to switch off components for long periods of time. We present the NR-Mesh (Nearest neighboR Mesh) topology. It gives an end node the choice to inject a message through different neighboring routers, thereby reducing hop count and saving latency. At the receiver side, a message may be delivered to the end node through different routers, thus reducing hop count further and increasing flexibility. When allowing links and routers to switch off and combined with adaptive routing, the power management technique is able to achieve significant power savings (up to 36% savings in static power consumed at routers). When compared with the 2D-Mesh, NR-Mesh reduces execution time by 23% and power consumption at routers by 47%.