A Case for Asynchronous Computer Architecture

Rajit Manohar

We present a summary of the state-of-the art in asynchronous VLSI and architecture. We present several reasons for adopting an asynchronous approach to computer architecture, including lower design complexity, reduced energy-complexity, and average-case performance. In particular, we describe why formal synthesis techniques for asynchronous design dramatically reduce design time, and present some examples that describe how asynchronous techniques can lead to a reduction in the energy-complexity of VLSI systems.
 
 
 
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