Synchronous Reactive Nano-Kernels: Exploring the Limits of Power and Energy Efficiency in Embedded Systems

Abstract

MpicOS is a reactive nano-kernel designed for controlling power- and energy-bound multicore embedded systems. Contrary to the mainstream approach of providing a multithreading framework with context saving, MpicOS is articulated around the reactive trigger-response abstraction with ultra-low power waits and a minimal API based on events and continuations. This change of paradigm keeps low the cost of re-engineering existing software, yet it results in major gains in power and energy usage of the system. Additionally, the reactive approach enables the deployment of novel applications on existing hardware platforms, resulting in new market opportunities and improved user experience.