IBM creating technology that lets CPUs heal themselves

IBM is creating technology that will enable microprocessors to monitor, regulate and heal themselves. The Armonk, N.Y., company on Friday unveiled its eFuse chip-morphing technology, designed to enable processors to dynamically adjust themselves in response to problems or systems demands.

eFuse is a patented technology that combines software algorithms and microscopic electrical fuses that will produce chips that can adapt on the fly to increase performance or avoid problems, according to IBM officials.

The technology can sense when the chip needs to increase performance or avoid a potential problem, and then can reconfigure the chip to meet the demands by tripping electrical fuses integrated into the chip. It can monitor and manage power consumption, repair problems and sense changes in demands on the chip.