NV-Clustering: Normally-Off Computing Using Non-Volatile Datapaths

Abstract

With technology downscaling, static power dissipation presents a crucial challenge to multicore, many-core, and System-on-Chip (SoC) architectures due to the increased role of leakage currents in overall energy consumption and the need to support power-gating schemes. Herein, a non-Volatile (NV) flip-flop design approach, referred to as NV Clustering, is developed to realize middleware-transparent intermittent computing. First, a Logic-Embedded Flip-Flop (LE-FF) is developed to realize rudimentary Boolean logic functions along with an inherent state-holding capability within a compact footprint. Second, the NV-Clustering synthesis procedure and corresponding tool module are utilized to instantiate the LE-FF library cells within conventional Register Transfer Language (RTL) specifications. This selectively clusters together logic and NV state-holding functionality, based on energy and area minimization criteria. NV-Clustering is applied to a wide range of benchmarks including ISCAS-89, MCNS, and ITC-99 computational circuits using a LE-FF based on the Spin Hall Effect (SHE)-assisted Spin Transfer Torque (STT) Magnetic Tunnel Junction (MTJ). Simulation results validate functionality and power dissipation, area, and delay benefits. For instance, results for ISCAS-89 benchmarks indicate 15 percent area reduction on average, up to 22 percent reduction in energy consumption, and up to 14 percent reduction in delay as compared to alternative NV-FF based designs, as evaluated via SPICE simulation at the 45-nm technology node.