Mixed-radix and/or mixed-mode switch matrix architecture and integrated circuit, and method of operating same

摘要

An integrated circuit comprising a plurality of switch matrices wherein the plurality of switch matrices are arranged in stages including (i) a first stage, configured in a hierarchical network (for example, a radix-4 network), (ii) a second stage configured in a hierarchical network (for example, a radix-2 or radix-3 network) and coupled to switches of the first stage, and (iii) a third stage configured in a mesh network and coupled to switches of the first and/or second stages. In one embodiment, the third stage of switch matrices is located between the first stage and second stage of switch matrices; in another embodiment, the third stage is the highest stage.