Things you need to know before deep dive UCIe

Before diving deep into #UCIe (Universal Chiplet Interconnect Express), it is important to be familiar with the #PCIe protocol and a streaming protocol like AMBA. If you are already knowledgeable about CXL, that would be even better.

As you read through the UCIe specifications, you may encounter a few recurring concepts and questions. Here are some clarifications:

Doubts and Clarifications

?? What is a Chiplet?

Chiplets are small integrated circuits (ICs) designed with specific functionalities.

?? Difference Between SoC (System on Chip) and Package Level

SoC: A System on Chip integrates all components of a computer or electronic system into a single chip.

Package Level: While SoCs are monolithic, package-level designs are modular.

Key Points:

- SoCs are ideal for highly integrated, high-performance, and power-efficient applications.

- UCIe packages, on the other hand, offer modularity, flexibility, and scalability, making them suitable for applications requiring heterogeneous integration and future upgradability.

?? What is On-Package?

On-package technology refers to methods used to connect multiple chiplets within the same package.

Benefits:

- Enhanced performance

- Flexibility in integrating the best chiplets

- Reduced development times

- Cost efficiency

?? What is the Necessity to Use the UCIe Protocol if There is a Better Performing Option?

While there might be other protocols that offer better performance in specific areas, UCIe provides standardization, broad ecosystem support, interoperability, flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and reduced time-to-market. These advantages make UCIe a strategic choice for developing scalable, interoperable, and cost-effective chiplet-based systems.

?? Difference Between Bandwidth Shoreline and Bandwidth Density

- Bandwidth Shoreline: The amount of data that can be supported per unit length along the edge of a chip or package (typically measured in Gbps/mm).

- Bandwidth Density: The amount of data bandwidth that can be supported per unit area of a chip or package (typically measured in Gbps/mm2).

By understanding these concepts, you will be better equipped to grasp the UCIe specifications and their implications for chiplet-based designs.