IBM Elastic Interface
| Industry | Computer hardware |
|---|---|
| Founder | IBM |
| Products | High-velocity bus links for processor designs |
| Parent | IBM |
Elastic interface buses, commonly referred to as EI bus connections, are high-velocity bus links that carry clock signals synchronized precisely with the transmitted data.
Description
The data bits transmitted via EI bus connections are aligned with the clock signal to enable rapid and accurate latching. Achieving synchronization of data edges with clock signals necessitates consistent network topology and timing parameters across all nets within the bus. This requirement for uniformity presents challenges when modifying connections within the module, often complicating repairs or resulting in the disposal of entire modules.
Repair
Repair procedures for EI buses involve utilizing a reserved spare wire embedded within the connection module, which mirrors the topology and electrical properties of the active nets. The hardware can switch from a defective net to this backup line, a capability supported by the original EI bus connector provider. To confirm operational integrity, modules are tested under various process conditions—including fluctuating temperature and voltage levels. If a net exhibits failure, it is substituted with the spare during testing; if no faults are detected, the spare is assessed alongside other functioning nets. Initially, these unused spare lines were held at a constant zero voltage level.
Applications
- Developed by IBM, EI buses are implemented in advanced processor designs:
- EI technology was also licensed by Mai Logic for use in PowerPC 970-based solutions.