Question

AMD has recently announced that they will be integrating a graphics processing unit with their x86 cores in a single package, though with different clocks for each of the cores. This is an example of a heterogeneous multiprocessor system which we expect to see produced commercially in the near future. One of the key design points will be to allow for fast data communication between the CPU and the GPU. Presently communications must be performed between discrete CPU and GPU chips. But this is changing in AMDs Fusion architecture. Presently the plan is to use multiple (at least 16) PCI express channels for facilitate intercommunication. Intel is also jumping into this arena with their Larrabee chip. Intel is considering to use their QuickPath interconnect technology.

6.15.1Compare the bandwidth and latency associated with these two interconnect technologies.

Short answer

6.15.1

AMD:

Bandwidth: 42 GB/s

Latency: about 12ns

Intel QuickPath

Bandwidth: about 25.6 GB/s

Latency: about 12ns

From the data, AMD Fusion seems to be better as the open end technology, still QuickPath outrages AMD in optimization.

Step-by-step solution

Determine AMD fusion and Intel Quickpath

AMD integrated graphical processing unit with the x86 cores in a single package, with different clock for each core. This is a heterogeneous multiprocessor system. This provides the faster data communication between CPU and GPU. Intel has introduced QuickPath interconnect technology that is the point to point system that optimizes the work as a communications between many processors.

Determine the bandwith and latency

6.15.1

AMD is the hyper connect that communicates faster with between CPUs and GPUs. The Intel Quick path is point-to-point technology that optimized the communication mechanisms.

AMD:

Bandwidth:

To read from local frame buffer: 17 GB/s

To write to local frame buffer: 13 GB/s

Uncached memory: 12 GB/s

Latency: about 12ns

Intel QuickPath

Bandwidth: about 25.6 GB/s

Latency: about 12ns

From the data, AMD Fusion seems to be better as the open end technology, still QuickPath outrages AMD in optimization.