Beckhoff: TwinCAT Core Boost for Greater Computing Performance in Real Time
June 5, 2024
TwinCAT 3 consistently supports modern multi-core processor technology. The multi-thread capability makes it possible to distribute the application across several cores. Supplemented by TwinCAT Core Boost, the computing performance of individual real-time or user-mode cores can now also be increased by up to 50% to maximize system performance and optimize it for specific requirements.
With TwinCAT Core Boost, the clock frequency of the processor cores can be configured individually and as required, so they no longer all have to be clocked at the same rate. The clock rate can be set for each core for real-time transmission and user-mode applications. It is also possible to operate individual cores continuously and in real time in what is known as Turbo mode. This offers a number of application advantages:
- up to 50% more computing power for one or more processor cores
- possibility to use more cost-effective CPUs
The permissible current consumption and temperature of each processor core (and of the overall system) is monitored by TwinCAT Core Boost, ensuring reliable operation even when Turbo mode is used. TwinCAT Core Boost can be used with all industrial PCs with Intel Core i processors in the 11th generation and up.
Up to 50% Turbo Boost for the CPU
In combined benchmarks for the Beckhoff Performance Portal, the single-core performance of an Intel Core i7 11850HE with base frequency was compared with the same CPU with TwinCAT Core Boost on a single core.
With TwinCAT Core Boost, it was possible to increase the clock frequency from 2.6 GHz to 4.2 GHz. This meant the Beckhoff Performance Index of the CPU could be increased by over 50%. The benchmark is an example of how TwinCAT Core Boost can increase clock frequencies and thus shorten calculation times.
This makes it possible to shorten project cycle times and operate machines and systems even more efficiently. At the same time, it demonstrates that TwinCAT Core Boost can be used to elevate smaller processors to meet the required performance standards, which they might otherwise struggle to achieve. In addition to hardware costs, users can also cut down on costs for processor-dependent software licenses.
