eFUSE

In computing, eFUSE is a technology invented by IBM which allows for the dynamic real-time reprogramming of computer chips. Speaking abstractly, computer logic is generally 'etched' or 'hard-coded' onto a chip and cannot be changed after the chip has finished being manufactured. By utilizing an eFUSE (or more realistically, a number of individual eFUSEs), a chip manufacturer can allow for the circuits on a chip to change while it is in operation.

The primary application of this technology is to provide in-chip performance tuning. If certain sub-systems fail, or are taking too long to respond, or are consuming too much power, the chip can instantly change its behavior by 'blowing' an eFUSE.

Implementations

• IBM POWER5 and POWER6 high-end RISC processors
• IBM System z9 and System z10 mainframe processors.
• Sony/Toshiba/IBM Cell used in PlayStation 3
• IBM/Microsoft Xenon CPU in the Xbox 360 game console.
• TI OMAP3-based mobile phones and other devices

See also

• Programmable logic device
• FPGA
• Antifuse

References

• "IBM introduces chip morphing technology". IBM. 2004-07-30. http://www-304.ibm.com/jct03001c/press/us/en/pressrelease/7246.wss. Retrieved 2009-09-17. 
• "IBM delivers Power-based chip for Microsoft Xbox 360 worldwide launch". IBM. 2005-10-25. http://www-03.ibm.com/chips/news/2005/1025_xbox.html. Retrieved 2007-02-28. 
• Rizzolo, R. F.; Foote, T. G., et al. (2007-02-13). "IBM System z9 eFUSE applications and methodology". doi:10.1147/rd.511.0065. http://www.research.ibm.com/journal/rd/511/rizzolo.html. Retrieved 2007-02-28. 
• Speedy22 (2006-03-07). "XBOX 360 CPU Datasheet. Version 1.5." (PDF). http://dwl.xbox-scene.com/tutorial/XBOX360cpu15data.pdf. Retrieved 2007-02-28. 
• Port, Otis (2005-06-06). "Mighty Morphing Power Processors". BusinessWeek. http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/05_23/b3936081_mz018.htm.