Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for encoding cache replacement priority information is disclosed. A computer software program may be used to allow programmers to specify which portions of source or object code being generated should be treated as high priority with respect to cache line replacement. The cache line replacement information may be encoded as special prefix bits/bytes, special opcodes, or as a separate data file. The software program may also be configured to autonomously determine which portions of the object code being generated should be identified as high priority with respect to cache line replacement. The program may also allow the programmer to specify certain points in the code after which instructions that had previously been identified as high priority should be reclassified as low priority. Opcodes or prefix bytes clearing previously stored cache replacement information may also be encoded in the object code. A microprocessor and computer system configured to execute code with embedded cache line replacement information are also disclosed.

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First Claim