Aggregated data link flow control

Abstract

Systems and methods are disclosed for credit-based flow control of multiple data links using a common reverse channel. The links transfer data from a source to respective buffers at a sink. Credits represent available buffer space. For each data link, a credit counter at the source is decremented as data is transmitted and incremented as the sink returns credits. Reporting logic at the data sink generates a credit report as sink logic retrieves data from the buffer, freeing buffer space. Encoding logic aggregates the credit reports from multiple links for transmission over the common reverse channel to the source, where individual credit reports are extracted and distributed among the links, for update to the respective credit counters. For each link, data transmission pauses when the credit counter decreases to a threshold. Return multiple links' credits over a single reverse channel saves power. Variations are disclosed.