RECONFIGURABLE COMPUTING

What is reconfigurable computing? To reconfigure means to modify or to change according to requirement. Reconfigurable computing means to modify the functional model of a system according to the task at hand. Reconfigurable computing also refers to modeling a system at hardware level as per requirements. In simple words, reconfigurable computing is preforming multiple applications on a single hardware layout with high degree of optimization.

Why use reconfigurable architecture? The one-to-one match of an application to a fixed architecture is difficult and thus we cannot achieve high throughput. In this case architecture specific reconfiguration helps in optimized execution of a program with high throughput. High degree of versatility. It means a single chip can perform multiple tasks. High degree of flexibility. It refers to the ability of the system to perform different tasks with ease. Lower cost as compared to competing technologies like FPGAs, CPLDs.

Present computing technology and its limitations Currents microprocessors and microcontrollers have a general architecture. This means one chip can run a range of programs. That's why we dont need separate computers for different jobs, such as crunching spreadsheets or editing digital photos.

 This general purpose architecture is the main limitation of present technology because for any one application, much of the chip's circuitry isn't needed, and the presence of those "wasted" circuits slows things down.

Main components of a reconfigurable system 1. A reconfigurable processor (RCP) These are highly flexible processors that can be reconfigured remotely in the field. A reconfigurable processor is a microprocessor with erasable hardware that can rewire itself dynamically. This allows the chip to adapt effectively to the programming tasks demanded by the particular software they are interfacing with at any given time. Ideally, the reconfigurable processor can transform itself from a video chip to a central processing unit (cpu) to a graphics chip, all optimized to allow applications to run at the highest possible speed.

2. A memory unit or module this part of the system has the ability to store a large number of hardware models or architectures each designed for a specific task. So a memory bank acts as storage for specific hardware designs.

3. Programmable logic blocks These blocks are the actual hardware on which the hardware design is implemented These consists of various number of pins, some act as input, some as output, and some as control for implementing hardware module with the help of reconfigurable processor.

Working of reconfigurable architecture 1. For a particular application, the reconfigurable processor looks for the optimum architecture from the memory module 2. RCP then analyzes it and optimizes it for the fastest speed possible with high efficiency 3. The new module is then implemented by programming the programmable logic blocks

Approaches to reconfigurability Software approach Hardware approach Hybrid hardware + software approach

Software approach In this design methodology software codes or algorithms are used for virtually modifying architecture Soft core processors have been around for some time now They use optimized algorithms for virtual rewiring of a processor for optimum speed and efficiency while dealing with specific tasks like digital signal processing, image processing, database crunching etc. Since the inherent hardware remains the same so speed is not optimized for software reconfiguration method

Hardware approach In this design methodology, internal hardware capabilities are changed Data paths, word size, pipelining etc This approach results in high speed but lacks in flexibility as com[pared to software reconfiguration

Hybrid reconfiguration In this methodology both hardware as well as the software aspect of a system are modified This provide high execution speeds along with high flexibility Co design shortens time-to-market due to use of flexible software and enhancing performance via specific hardware as necessary

Present Limitations of reconfigurable computing Lack of engineers understanding the key aspects of reconfigurable computing so at present there is severe shortage of skilled professionals in this filed The set of hardware and software design tools is very limited at present