Power Management

What is the most suitable use of features such as Intel RAPL that let software measure CPU and memory power and set caps?

  1. AFinding CPU manufacturing defects
  2. BIn data centers, capping each server's power so rack or building power limits are not exceeded
  3. CFinding grammar errors in programs
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Answer: B. In data centers, capping each server's power so rack or building power limits are not exceeded

In data centers, power supply and cooling capacity cap the available power. If software can measure CPU and memory power and set limits, more servers can be installed while respecting the cap, without provisioning for the worst case of every server drawing maximum power. Measuring how much energy a program uses also helps guide energy-saving improvements.

  • A. It is not a manufacturing test function.
  • B. Correct. Power becomes a manageable resource.
  • C. It is not a syntax checker.
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More Power Management questions

  1. Which describes ACPI, used in PCs and similar systems?
  2. In smartphone SoCs combining high-performance and efficient cores, why does running light work on the efficient cores use less energy?
  3. Which describes the idea behind adaptive voltage scaling (AVS)?
  4. Which is NOT a reason chips need margin in their supply voltage?
  5. What is an advantage of placing the regulators that generate CPU supply voltages inside the chip or package rather than on the motherboard (integrated regulators)?