Typical cache architecture provides a single cache way prediction memory for use in predicting a cache way for both sequential and non-sequential instructions contained within a program stream. Unfortunately, one of the drawbacks of the prior art cache way prediction scheme lies in its efficiency when dealing with instructions that vary the PC in a non-sequential manner, such as branch instructions including jump instructions. To facilitate caching of non-sequential instructions an additional cache way prediction memory is provided to deal with the non-sequential instructions. Thus during program execution a decision circuit determines whether to use a sequential cache way prediction array or a non sequential cache way prediction array in dependence upon the type of instruction. Advantageously the improved cache way prediction scheme provides an increased cache hit percentage when used with non-sequential instructions.

 
Web www.patentalert.com

< Storage apparatus having virtual-to-actual device addressing scheme

> Multisystem network, and device and method for access to data storage

~ 00451