Apparatus and method for branch prediction utilizing a predictor combination in parallel with a global predictor
US7219217B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 16, 1998 |
| Grant date | May 15, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 31, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F9/3848
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and method for branch prediction are disclosed. The branch predictor has four portions. The first includes a bimodal branch predictor in series with a local branch predictor; the second includes a global branch predictor. The first and second portions are in parallel and operate concurrently, and each provide an output received by the fourth portion. The third portion receives address data and selection data, and also provides output to the fourth portion. The fourth portion receives these outputs, and provides a branch prediction. The branch prediction is a selection of either the output from the first portion or the output from the second portion, based upon selection criteria received from the third portion.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.