Systems and Methods for Improving the Reliability of a Multi-Core Processor

摘要

Systems and methods for improving the reliability of multiprocessors by reducing the aging of processor cores that have lower performance. One embodiment comprises a method implemented in a multiprocessor system having a plurality of processor cores. The method includes determining performance levels for each of the processor cores and determining an allocation of the tasks to the processor cores that substantially minimizes aging of a lowest-performing one of the operating processor cores. The allocation may be based on task priority, task weight, heat generated, or combinations of these factors. The method may also include identifying processor cores whose performance levels are below a threshold level and shutting down these processor cores. If the number of processor cores that are still active is less than a threshold number, the multiprocessor system may be shut down, or a warning may be provided to a user.