Method for determining transition points on multiple performance state capable microprocessors

摘要

A method for automatically transitioning a processor to another performance level in a demand-based system. The invention provides for the automatic adjustment of processor frequency while preserving system responsiveness. The performance-level policy algorithm of the present invention detects increased processor utilization quickly enough that transition to a higher performance level is comparable to maximum system performance. The performance-level policy algorithm of an embodiment of the present invention delays processor transition to a lower performance level so that quick reversals in demand do not precipitate unnecessary transitioning.