Importance

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Abstract

A processor employs an instruction queue and dependency vectors therein which allow a flexible dependency recording structure. The dependency vector includes a dependency indication for each instruction queue entry, which may provide a universal mechanism for scheduling instruction operations. An arbitrary number of dependencies may be recorded for a given instruction operation, up to a dependency upon each other instruction operation. Since the dependency vector is configured to record an arbitrary number of dependencies, a given instruction operation can be ordered with respect to any other instruction operation. Accordingly, any architectural or microarchitectural restrictions upon concurrent execution or upon order of particular instruction operations in execution may be enforced. The instruction queues evaluate the dependency vectors and request scheduling for each instruction operation for which the recorded dependencies have been satisfied.

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First Claim