Apparatus and method for self-timed algorithmic execution

摘要

An apparatus for self-timed algorithmic execution comprises a functional logic set, a reference clock input and a pulse sequencer. The functional logic set receives input data in synchrony with a reference pulse set received at the reference clock input; performs algorithmic computations on the input data at a maximal-rate set by the pulse sequencer in accordance with the physical characteristics of the functional logic; generates output data; and transmits the output data in synchrony with the reference pulse set. The maximal-rate set by the pulse sequencer is independent of the reference pulse set. A method for self- timed algorithmic execution comprises the steps of: transferring input data to a functional logic set in synchrony with a reference clock; generating a maximal-rate pulse sequence, for driving the functional logic set at a rate dependent upon an algorithm execution time for the functional logic set but independent of the reference clock; generating output data from the functional logic set in response to the maximal- rate pulse sequence; and transferring the output data from the functional logic in synchrony with the reference clock.