Importance

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Abstract

Self-aware, peer-to-peer cache transfers between local, shared cache memories in a multi-processor system is disclosed. A shared cache memory system is provided comprising local shared cache memories accessible by an associated central processing unit (CPU) and other CPUs in a peer-to-peer manner. When a CPU desires to request a cache transfer (e.g., in response to a cache eviction), the CPU acting as a master CPU issues a cache transfer request. In response, target CPUs issue snoop responses indicating their willingness to accept the cache transfer. The target CPUs also use the snoop responses to be self-aware of the willingness of other target CPUs to accept the cache transfer. The target CPUs willing to accept the cache transfer use a predefined target CPU selection scheme to determine its acceptance of the cache transfer. This can avoid a CPU making multiple requests to find a target CPU for a cache transfer.

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First Claim