Complex Network Inspired NoC Architecture

Networks-on-Chip (NoCs) represent a capable solution to complex networks. NoC communication architectures currently are based on either completely regular or fully customized topologies. Complex networks are capable of having the performance of fully customizable network while having the general purpose use of a regular network. The performance of NoC fabrics can be significantly enhanced by introducing shortcuts between far apart cores. The performance improvement is achieved through efficient data routing and optimum placement of shortcuts. This chapter focuses on the small-world NoC (SWNoC) topology and discusses the components required to design a SWNoC.