Intel Corporation
Minimizing on-die memory in pull mode switches

Abstract:

Method and apparatus for minimizing on-die memory in pull-mode switches. A disaggregated edge switch (DSW) includes a local communication interface including a plurality of outer ports configured to be coupled to a plurality of local hosts or servers via respective outer links, and a network interface configured to couple to at least one remote apparatus via a respective inner port and link. Data is transferred between the local hosts/servers using pull-mode transfers under which a receiver port "pulls" data from a local source port. The use of pull-mode data transfers between the local host/servers is managed by a scheduler so as to minimize the amount of buffers space for these local data transfers. Techniques are also disclosed for extending pull-mode data transfers using the Ethernet protocol over Ethernet links.