NoC (Network on Chip)

Definition: NoC is a communication subsystem on an integrated circuit, typically between intellectual property (IP) cores in a System on Chip (SoC).

Key Features:

  • Packet-switched network for on-chip communication
  • Scalable architecture for multi-core systems
  • Supports parallel communication between different cores

Components:

  • Routers
  • Network interfaces
  • Links

Advantages:

  • Improved scalability compared to traditional bus systems
  • Higher bandwidth
  • Better power efficiency for large-scale SoCs

Challenges:

  • Design complexity
  • Latency management
  • Area overhead

Applications:

  • Multi-core processors
  • High-performance computing SoCs
  • Complex embedded systems

NoC is crucial for efficient communication in large-scale, complex SoC designs.