网络处理器体系结构的比较与分析

Comparison and Analysis of Architecture of Network Processor

网络处理器作为路由器设计的关键部分，不仅具有ASIC的功能，同时有着通用CPU的编程能力，在速度与可编程方面均有着优良的性能。该文主要阐述IBM NP4GS3与Intel IXP 1200两款网络处理器的体系结构，并对网络处理器的总线设计、微引擎机制、存储器设计等关键部分加以比较分析，为设计网络处理器提供参考。

As the pivotal part in the router design, network processor not only has the function of ASIC, but also has the program ability of general CPU, so it has high performance in speed and program. This article introduces the architecture of two network processor products: IBM NP4GS3 and Intel IXP 1200, and makes some research on comparison of bus design , the mechanism of micro engine and memory design of network processor, so as to provide the reference for network processor design.