Scientists Have Designs on Better Phones and MP3s

22 October 08

MP3 players, mobile phones and other gadgets could become smaller, faster and more energy efficient thanks to a new computer design technique.

The development, by scientists at the University of Edinburgh, could also deliver improved battery life and cut production costs.

Conventionally, the design process for gadgets has involved creating a processor (the central chip of a gadget) and then adding a compiler – the component that translates computer languages into binary code. This can then be optimised to make the device run as fast as possible. Instead, the Edinburgh scientists have used artificial intelligence to design in tandem both the compiler and processor, streamlining the overall efficiency of gadgets.

To develop their technique, the researchers ran experiments on millions of combinations of processors and compilers optimised for particular functions. They then used a statistical analysis technique to automatically identify the pairings that lead to good performance and energy efficiency. Designers can use this tool to pinpoint the best processors to use with their optimised compiler requirements.

Dr Timothy Jones, of the University of Edinburgh’s School of Informatics, who led the research, said:

“Using our method would enable designers to choose the best combination of components for their needs. For consumers, this means faster, smaller devices, producing less heat and with improved battery life. Overall, this means cheaper products on the market quicker.”

The research will be presented at the International Conference on Compilers, Architecture, and Synthesis for Embedded Systems in Atlanta, Georgia.

The research was funded by the Royal Academy of Engineering, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and the European Union.

More information on the University of Edinburgh School of Informatics