VMware, Inc.
Just-in-time hardware for field programmable gate arrays

Abstract:

A system and method are disclosed for executing a component of a design in a hardware engine. The component is compiled to include an interface that supports an `open_loop(n)` function which, when invoked, requests that the hardware engine run for a specified number of steps before communicating with other hardware or software engines via a runtime system. After the compiled hardware component is transferred to the hardware engine, the hardware engine runs for the specified number of steps unless and until it encounters a system function, such as a `display(s)` function, in the code of the component that requires the runtime system to intervene. The hardware engine pauses awaiting the completion of the system function and continues its execution. The `open_loop(n)` operation of the hardware engine permits components in hardware engines to run at a speed close to the native speed of the target programmable hardware fabric.