Protocols
Buffering
Techniques for storing data temporarily between pipeline stages or interfaces operating at different rates.
Detailed Explanation
Buffering absorbs timing variations between producer and consumer. Single-entry buffers (like skid buffers) handle pipeline back-pressure. Multi-entry buffers (FIFOs) handle rate differences and bursts. Buffer depth trades latency for throughput resilience.
Buffer management includes preventing overflow (losing data) and underflow (stalling consumer). Credit-based flow control pre-allocates buffer space. Watermark signals indicate buffer fullness levels.